Reference a case file · Prefix and sequence
Add Bates numbering to a PDF
Prefix · Padding · Adjustable position
Bates numbering adds a sequential reference to every page, for example EXHIBIT-0001, EXHIBIT-0002 and EXHIBIT-0003. In Parapheo, you choose the prefix, the first number, the number of digits, the position, the size, the margin and any first pages to skip.
Prepare a consistent reference
Define the convention before modifying the file. A short prefix helps tell case files apart, while a fixed number of digits keeps the references aligned.
| Setting | Example | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Prefix | EXHIBIT- | EXHIBIT-0001 |
| Digits | 4 | 0001, 0002, 0003 |
| Start at | 25 | EXHIBIT-0025 on the first numbered page |
| First pages skipped | 1 | The cover stays unnumbered and the next page receives the chosen start number. |
Number the PDF step by step
- Import the PDF. Check the page order first. Numbering applied before reordering will not magically follow pages that are moved afterwards.
- Choose the format. Simple number, “1 / total”, “Page 1 of total” and Bates are available.
- Enter the Bates prefix. It is placed just before the number when this format is selected.
- Set the start number. Use a value greater than 1 if the sequence continues a previous batch.
- Set the padding. The number of digits ranges from 1 to 10 and determines the zeros added in front of the number.
- Place the reference. Bottom left, bottom centre, bottom right, top left and top right are available, with adjustable size and margin.
- Skip the first pages if needed. Specify how many initial pages should remain unnumbered.
- Export and check. Check several consecutive pages, the last page and the areas close to existing text.
Recommended order for preparing a case file
- Merge the documents you need.
- Delete, extract or reorder pages.
- Rotate pages that are not the right way up.
- Add the numbering only once the order is final.
- Review the exported file before archiving or sending it.
Limitation: Parapheo writes a visible reference on the pages. The tool does not create an exhibit log, a covering schedule, a chain of custody or a certification of the sequence.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start at 0?
No. The first number is raised to a minimum of 1.
Can I leave the cover unnumbered?
Yes. Enter 1 in the “Skip first pages” field. A higher value lets you skip several initial pages.
Can the prefix contain the name of the case file?
The field accepts text, but avoid writing unnecessary confidential or personal data on every page.