How do I label exhibits for court?

Label exhibits sequentially using letters (A, B, C) for plaintiff's exhibits or numbers (1, 2, 3) for defendant's exhibits. Attach exhibit stickers or tabs to each document and create an exhibit list that describes each item. Reference exhibits by their labels in your declarations and briefs.

How to Label Exhibits for Court

Standard Labeling Conventions

Most courts follow these conventions:

Plaintiff/Petitioner exhibits: Letters (Exhibit A, B, C, etc.)
Defendant/Respondent exhibits: Numbers (Exhibit 1, 2, 3, etc.)
Sequential order: Label in the order you'll reference them
Consistent format: Use the same labeling system throughout your case

How to Attach Exhibit Labels

Physical Exhibits:

Use adhesive exhibit stickers (available at office supply stores)
Place stickers on the bottom right corner of the first page
Alternatively, use colored tabs that extend beyond the page edge
For multi-page exhibits, only label the first page

Electronic Exhibits:

Add exhibit labels to PDF bookmarks
Include exhibit designation in file names (e.g., 'Exhibit_A_Email.pdf')
Some e-filing systems allow exhibit marking during upload

Creating an Exhibit List

Prepare a formal exhibit list that includes:

Exhibit designation: Letter or number
Description: Brief but specific (e.g., 'Text messages between parties, March 15-20, 2024')
Page count: Number of pages in that exhibit
Date: When the document was created or relevant time period

Referencing Exhibits in Declarations

When citing exhibits in your declaration or brief:

Use consistent terminology: 'See Exhibit A' or 'As shown in Exhibit 1'
Reference specific pages for lengthy exhibits: 'Exhibit B, page 3'
Introduce each exhibit clearly: 'Attached as Exhibit C is a copy of the parenting plan'

Pre-Marking Exhibits for Hearings

For hearings and trials:

Pre-mark exhibits: Label before the hearing
Exchange with opposing party: Provide copies of your exhibit list
Bring three copies: One for judge, one for opposing party, one for yourself
Organize in binder: Use tabs for easy reference during hearing
Number pages: If required by local rules, number pages consecutively

Common Exhibit Labeling Mistakes

Avoid these errors:

Using wrong designation system (letters when you should use numbers)
Skipping labels or using duplicate labels
Labeling exhibits differently in different documents
Forgetting to reference exhibits in your declarations
Not providing copies to opposing party before hearing
Mixing original documents with copies without clear marking

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhat if I run out of letters or numbers?▾

AAfter Z, use AA, BB, CC (or double letters). After 99, use 100, 101, etc. Most cases don't require this many exhibits. If you have extensive exhibits, consider combining related documents into single exhibits with sub-parts (e.g., Exhibit A-1, A-2, A-3).

QWhat if I forgot to label an exhibit before filing?▾

AFile a corrected document with properly labeled exhibits as soon as possible. Explain the error in a declaration or notice to the court. For upcoming hearings, bring properly labeled exhibits and inform the judge of the correction.

QDo I use the same exhibit labels for different hearings?▾

AWithin the same case, generally yes - maintain consistent labeling throughout. However, for completely separate motions, some attorneys start fresh labeling. Check local rules or ask the clerk for guidance on your court's preference.

Sources

Federal Rules of Evidence - Rule 901 — Authentication and identification requirements for evidence
Federal Rules of Civil Procedure — General exhibit and evidence procedures
Model Standards for Exhibits — Best practices for exhibit preparation