Definition of File
n. A record of the court. Milton v. United States, C.C.A.La., 105 F.2d 253, 255. A paper is said to be filed when it is delivered to the proper officer, and by him received to be kept on file as a matter of record and reference. But, in general, "file,” or "the files,” is used loosely to denote the official custody of the court or the place in the offices of a court where the records and papers are kept. The "file” in a case includes the original complaint and all pleadings and papers belonging thereto. See also Docket; Record.
v. To lay away and arrange in order, pleadings, motions, instruments, and other papers for preservation and reference. To deposit in the custody or among the records of a court. To deliver an instrument or other paper to the proper officer or official for the purpose of being kept on file by him as a matter of record and reference in the proper place. It carries the idea of permanent preservation as a public record. City of Overland Park v. Nikias, 209 Kan. 643, 498 P.2d 56, 59. See also Record.
Constructive filing. See that title.
Filing officer. The person in charge of the office responsible for receiving legal papers and documents that are required to be publicly filed (e.g., office or department of Secretary of State in which a financing statement must be filed to perfect a security interest under the Uniform Commercial Code. U.C.C. § 9-401).
Filing with court. Delivery of legal document to clerk of court or other proper officer with intent that it be filed with court. Fed.R.Civil P. 5 requires that all papers after the complaint required to be served upon a party shall be filed with the court ( Le., clerk or judge) either before service or within a reasonable time thereafter.
That's the definition of File in Black's Law Dictionary 6th Edition. Courtesy of Cekhukum.com.