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Bates Numbering

Marking & Stamping

A method of indexing legal documents by placing unique, sequential numbers on each page. Originally created by the Bates Automatic Numbering Machine.

What You Need to Know

Bates numbers provide page-level tracking for document production in discovery. Unlike exhibit stamps which mark entire documents, Bates numbers appear on every page with sequential identifiers like "PLAINTIFF00001, PLAINTIFF00002." Federal courts and most state courts accept digital Bates numbering for discovery production per Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 34.

Legal References

  • Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 34 - Production of documents
  • Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 34(b)(2)(E) - Format of production

Relevant Practice Areas

Civil LitigationE-DiscoveryCommercial Litigation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Bates numbering and exhibit stamps?

Bates numbering applies sequential numbers to every page of produced documents (e.g., PLAINTIFF00001-00150), while exhibit stamps mark complete documents with single identifiers (e.g., Exhibit 1, Exhibit A). Bates numbers are used during discovery production, while exhibit stamps are applied for trial or deposition presentation.

Are Bates numbers required in discovery?

Bates numbers are not universally required but are standard practice in federal and state court litigation. Many local rules and standing orders require Bates numbering for document productions over a certain page count. Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 34 governs document production format.

Can I use Bates numbering software instead of physical stamps?

Yes. Courts accept digital Bates numbering from PDF software. Digital Bates stamping is faster, more consistent, and allows for automated tracking. Adobe Acrobat, Bluebeam, and specialized e-discovery tools all provide Bates numbering features that meet court requirements.

When It's Used

Used to track documents in discovery, depositions, and trial

Example

"Pages numbered as ACME001, ACME002, ACME003, etc., to identify production source and page number."

Legal References

  • •Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 34

Related Terms

Exhibit Stamp

A label or marking applied to documentary evidence to identify it during legal proceedings. Typically includes the exhibit number or letter, party designation, and sometimes the case name.

Document Control Number

A unique identifier assigned to track documents in litigation, often combining the producing party prefix and a sequential number.

Sequential Labeling

Numbering or lettering exhibits in consecutive order (1, 2, 3... or A, B, C...) rather than by custom labels.

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