How to Bates number text messages
A Bates number is a unique label stamped on every page of documents in a case, usually a short prefix and a running number such as SMITH000001, so everyone can refer to the same page. Ask your lawyer which prefix and starting number to use, then either stamp the pages of your PDF with a PDF editor or add the numbers when you export the texts.
How Bates numbers work
- Every page gets the next number, with no gaps and no repeats across everything produced in the case.
- The prefix usually names the party or the source, for example the last name of the person producing the documents.
- Numbers are padded with zeros to a fixed length, often six or eight digits.
- They usually sit in the bottom right corner, away from the content.
Who decides the numbers
In a case with lawyers, the lawyer producing the documents or an agreement between the parties sets the prefix and the ranges, so that numbers do not collide with other productions. If you are sending texts to your own lawyer, they may prefer to number everything themselves. Ask before you add numbers.
Adding Bates numbers with TextExhibit
- In the export options, turn on Bates numbers.
- Type the prefix and the starting number your lawyer gave you, for example SMITH000001.
- Export. Each page carries its Bates number in the footer next to the page number, and the cover page states the range.
What to keep in mind
- This is general information, not legal advice. Production rules come from the court and the parties.
- If you export again after changing the date range, the page count and the range of numbers change too. Number the final version only.
Questions
Do I need Bates numbers for small claims?
Usually not, but courts often ask for numbered pages or labelled exhibits. Check the court’s rules.
Can I Bates number screenshots?
Yes, by putting them in a PDF and stamping it, but the screenshots still lack exact times and numbers.
Does the cover page get a number?
Yes. Every page, including the cover, gets the next number, which is the usual practice.
Export the whole conversation
TextExhibit turns a conversation into one PDF with exact times, names and numbers, photos in place and page numbers, on your Mac. Free to preview; $24.99 once to export.