EDI Upload Error Diagnostics (EDI Doctor)
When you send case data to Docketly over SFTP/EDI and a file can't be processed, our system now automatically reviews the rejected file and produces a clear explanation of what went wrong — so problems are caught and resolved faster. This does not change how you submit files.
What it does for you
If one of your uploaded files fails to process, Docketly automatically:
Detects why the file was rejected.
Pinpoints the specific row and column where the problem occurs.
Compares the failed file against your recent successful uploads to spot what changed.
Alerts your Docketly Client Success team with a recommended fix.
The review is advisory only: a Docketly team member looks at every diagnosis before deciding whether to reach out. You don't need to do anything unless your Client Success contact asks you for an updated file.
Common reasons an upload is rejected
Issue | What it means |
|---|---|
Malformed file | One or more data rows have a different number of columns than the header row. |
Missing required column | A column the system needs (e.g., case number, hearing date, court) is absent. |
File encoding | The file isn't saved as standard UTF-8 text, or contains hidden characters from copy/paste or Excel exports. |
Bad date format | Dates aren't in the expected format and can't be read reliably. |
Unrecognized court | A court or location value doesn't match a court Docketly recognizes. |
Wrong file type | A PDF, ZIP, or other non-CSV file was placed in the data folder. |
Duplicate rows | The same case/hearing appears more than once in the file. |
How to avoid rejected uploads
Make sure every data row has the same number of fields as the header row.
Put double quotes around any value that contains a comma (for example, instructions text).
Save the file as CSV (UTF-8).
Use YYYY-MM-DD for dates.
Keep to the standard column template Docketly provided for your account.
Place only .csv files in your data (incoming) folder.
What to expect
If we need an updated file, your Client Success contact will reach out with the specific row, column, and recommended correction already identified. In most cases there is nothing for you to do.
Questions about a specific rejected upload? Contact your Docketly Client Success representative and reference the file name and the date you submitted it.