Computer implemented method for controlling document edits

The method of the present invention simplifies and streamlines the tasks that must be carried out in order to prepare and control electronic documents such as patent applications. In one embodiment, the computer-implemented method of the present invention includes storing a plurality of alterable electronic documents on a computer system, the plurality of electronic documents being associated with a patent application, generating a first signal indicating that one or more of the electronic documents are to be filed to a patent office, and automatically locking the one or more electronic document so that the documents cannot be altered. In another embodiment, electronic documents may be associated with a package and automatically locked when a user transmits a signal indicating that the package has been transferred from a first phase to a second phase.