Bates numbering
Bates numbering that runs in your browser
A Bates number is a unique number stamped on every page of a document set, like SMITH-000001, so anyone can cite an exact page. Bindery stamps them on your PDFs and photos inside your browser, along with exhibit labels, cover sheets and a linked index. It’s free for up to 3 exhibits, and your files are never uploaded.
What a Bates number looks like
Most Bates numbers have two parts: a short prefix that says whose documents they are, and a page number padded with zeros so every number has the same length. That padding keeps the numbers in order when someone sorts them, and it shows at a glance how big the production is.
| Example | When you’d use it |
|---|---|
SMITH-000001 | The usual form: party or case prefix, six digits, one sequence through everything. |
ACME0000123 | A large document production. Seven or eight digits, often no dash. |
A-0001 | Numbering that restarts for each exhibit, with the exhibit label in the number. |
B12 | Sectional pagination for UK family bundles under PD27A: section letter, then page. |
Bindery suggests a prefix from your case name (Whitfield v. Harbor Point becomes WHITFIELD-), and you can change the prefix, the number of digits, the first number and where the stamp sits on the page.
One sequence, or restart for each exhibit
For a document production, you usually want one unbroken sequence from the first page to the last. For exhibits attached to a motion or a trial binder, some courts and teams prefer numbering that restarts with each exhibit, so page 3 of Exhibit B is B-0003. Bindery does both. Cover sheets and the index can carry numbers or be left out.
What else lands in the PDF
- A linked index at the front, with descriptions, dates, page numbers and Bates ranges. Click a line to jump to the exhibit.
- Cover sheets that say whose exhibit it is, its label and what it is.
- Exhibit stickers on the first page, yellow for plaintiffs and blue for defendants.
- Bookmarks and page labels, so the page box in any PDF reader shows A-1, A-2, B-1.
- An exhibit list as a spreadsheet (CSV), if you need one for the court or opposing counsel.
When a late exhibit turns up, drag it into place. Labels, Bates numbers, the index and the bookmarks renumber themselves.
Why not just use Acrobat?
You can. Bates numbering is part of Adobe Acrobat Pro (not the free Reader or Acrobat Standard). It stamps numbers well, but that’s all it does: cover sheets, exhibit stickers and the index are still yours to make, and every change in order means stamping again. If you already pay for Acrobat Pro and only need numbers, it’s a fine choice. If you’re building exhibits, Bindery does the whole bundle in one pass.
Your files stay on your computer
Most free online Bates tools ask you to upload the documents to their server. Bindery doesn’t: the page reads and writes your files in the browser, and its security policy blocks it from sending them anywhere. You can check by turning off your Wi-Fi and building a bundle. Here’s how to check any PDF tool.
Questions
Is Bates numbering in Bindery free?
Yes for bundles of up to 3 exhibits numbered from the start. Bigger bundles need a Case Pass ($19 once, 7 days) or Pro ($99 a year).
Can I continue numbering from an earlier production?
Yes. Set the first Bates number (and the first exhibit label, if you need to) to pick up where the last set ended. Continuing a sequence needs a Case Pass or Pro.
Where does the number go on the page?
Bottom right by default. You can move it to the bottom centre or bottom left. Bindery keeps photos and screenshots clear of the stamp.
Does it change my original files?
No. Bindery writes a new PDF and leaves your originals as they are.
Can I number photos and screenshots?
Yes. JPG, PNG, WebP and HEIC (where your browser supports it) go onto a page of the paper size you choose, turned upright and sized to fit.
Updated November 9, 2026