Why is it critical to preserve original files when stamping PDFs for a case?
The reasons your source documents should never be altered in place.
The unaltered source files may themselves be evidence, so changing them can raise questions about integrity. Keeping pristine originals also lets you re-stamp cleanly if a numbering scheme changes. Always write stamped copies rather than overwriting, and store originals and stamped sets in separate, clearly labeled folders.
Originals are evidence
The unaltered source documents may themselves be evidence, and changing them can raise questions about integrity. Preservation protects their value.
You never want a stamp to become an issue in itself. Related: How do you choose where a Bates stamp sits so it never covers document content?
Keep reading: What exactly is Bates numbering and why do law firms rely on it for documents?, How do you keep Bates numbering consistent across multiple separate document productions?, When should you apply confidential or privileged watermarks to a batch of documents?. See how PdfStampr helps you bulk pdf stamping and bates numbering.
Room to redo
If a numbering scheme changes, having pristine originals lets you re-stamp cleanly. Overwriting the source removes that option.
Keeping originals is your safety net for do-overs.
Separate stamped copies
The right approach writes stamped copies and leaves the originals untouched. You end up with both versions clearly separated.
That separation keeps your workflow reversible.
Organized storage
Storing originals and stamped sets in distinct, well-labeled folders prevents mix-ups. Clarity here saves confusion later.
A tidy structure is easy to hand off to a colleague.
- Original files may themselves be evidence
- Pristine originals let you re-stamp if a scheme changes
- Always write stamped copies rather than overwriting
- Keep originals and stamped sets in separate folders
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.
Frequently asked questions
What if you need to change the numbering after stamping?
With pristine originals kept aside, you can simply re-stamp a fresh copy. Overwriting the source would remove that option and force a messier fix.
How should stamped and original files be stored?
Keep them in distinct, well-labeled folders so the two versions never get mixed up. A tidy structure also makes the work easy to hand off to a colleague.
Bates Numbering Without The Headache
Bulk PDF stamping and Bates numbering. PdfStampr is built to help you put this into practice.
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