Exhibit Numbering: Complete FAQ Guide
Proper exhibit numbering is essential for court compliance and case organization. This guide answers common questions about numbering conventions, plaintiff vs defendant labeling, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do plaintiffs and defendants use different exhibit numbers?
Yes. In most jurisdictions, plaintiffs mark exhibits with numbers (Exhibit 1, 2, 3...) while defendants use letters (Exhibit A, B, C...). This convention comes from California Rules of Court 3.1110(c) and is followed in most state and federal courts. The distinction helps judges and juries quickly identify which party is offering each piece of evidence.
What happens when I run out of letters for defendant exhibits?
After reaching Exhibit Z, continue with double letters: AA, AB, AC through AZ, then BA, BB, BC, and so on. Some attorneys prefer AA, BB, CC for simplicity. Either system is acceptable as long as you are consistent throughout the case. ExhibitPrep automatically generates sequential labels including double-letter combinations.
Should I pre-number exhibits before trial?
Yes, pre-marking exhibits is standard practice and often required. California Rules of Court 3.1302 requires exhibit exchange at least 30 days before trial. Pre-numbering ensures all parties and the court reference the same exhibit identifiers, prevents confusion during trial, and demonstrates preparation.
Can I skip numbers in my exhibit sequence?
Generally, no. Sequential numbering without gaps is preferred because it helps the court track all exhibits and prevents confusion about whether an exhibit was withdrawn or missing. If you withdraw an exhibit, note it on the exhibit list rather than renumbering.
How do I number exhibits for multiple defendants?
Multi-party cases use prefixes to distinguish exhibits by party. Common conventions include: D1-A, D1-B for Defendant 1; D2-A, D2-B for Defendant 2. Third-party defendants might use TP-1, TP-2. Cross-complainants use CC-A, CC-B. Always confirm local rules and coordinate with other parties.
What number format should I use: 1, 01, or 001?
Use leading zeros based on your expected exhibit count. For cases with fewer than 100 exhibits, single digits (1, 2, 3) are fine. For larger cases, use two digits (01, 02) or three digits (001, 002). Consistent formatting helps with sorting and professional presentation.
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