Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/50188
As you create a PDF/A, keep all of the requirements in mind: no encryption, no references to external fonts, no multimedia, etc. Here are some other tips to consider when using Adobe 9 and Word 2010: Adobe 9 Test your PDF/A with the built-in preflight software. You'll have the choice between creating a PDF/A-1a or -1b. If the court doesn't require tagging, then you may choose PDF/A-1b. Word 2010 Ensure that the "Embed Fonts in the File" option is checked. Before you save, select "Options" and make sure "ISO 19005-1 compliant (PDF/A)" is selected. "The Judiciary has delayed implementation of the PDF/A standard until major software vendors provide for the creation of this format in conjunction with standard word processing packages. Ninety software vendors now do so. All versions of CM/ECF accept PDF/A today. I wanted to alert the bar to this issue as upcoming releases of CM/ECF will enable courts to that all documents be filed in PDF/A format. Those new CM/ECF software upgrades will enable each court to control its transition to PDF/A. The goal of the Judiciary is to transition fully to PDF/A." CREATING A PDF/A Although PDF files are largely associated with Adobe — they invented the PDF, after all — as Clerk Baerma wrote, there are nearly 100 vendors that can produce a PDF/A. Two technologies commonly found in law firms include Adobe 9 (earlier versions are available, 16 Tech Potpourri ILTA White Paper NO TIME FOR DELAY No matter what tool you use to make PDF files, I strongly suggest that you use the latest version of any software being utilized to create a PDF/A. Vendors are still patching and updating the software with new releases, and that may be why courts haven't yet enforced the PDF/A requirements. The delay has bought law firms who file in federal courts a bit more time to get up to speed, but the day is approaching when PDF/A files will be the norm — making them accessible for years to come. ILTA however Adobe Standard versions 7, 8 and 9 have proven to be better at creating a PDF/A and checking for compliance) and Microsoft Word 2010 (although Word doesn't offer compliance checking). Other tools such as Nuance Scansoft PDF Converter Professional 7, Apago PDF Appraiser and Callas Software PDF/A Pilot Server also do an adequate job. r equir e