What are the best practices for adding exhibit labels to documents before a hearing?
How to label exhibits so they are easy to reference and hard to confuse.
Consistent placement
Exhibit labels belong in the same corner on every document so people find them instantly. Wandering labels slow everyone down.
Consistency turns flipping through exhibits into a smooth process.
A clear numbering scheme
Decide on a scheme, whether numbers or letters, and apply it in order. Mixing systems mid-set invites confusion.
A clean scheme makes the record easy to follow.
Do not obscure content
A label should sit clear of the text and any existing Bates number. Overlapping stamps create disputes about what a page says.
Previewing placement avoids that collision.
Prepare in advance
Labeling exhibits the night before a hearing under pressure leads to mistakes. Batch labeling ahead of time keeps you calm and accurate.
A prepared set is one less thing to worry about in the room.
- Place labels in the same corner on every document
- Pick one numbering scheme and apply it in order
- Keep labels clear of text and Bates numbers
- Batch label exhibits ahead of the hearing
Julien Jimenez
Julien Jimenez is an independent software builder based in Paris. He designs, ships, and operates focused SaaS products for small businesses and independent professionals. Read the full author page.
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