Exhibits Guide: Labeling and Organization

Exhibits are physical or digital evidence you present to the judge. Proper labeling and organization make your evidence easier to reference and harder to dispute. Without proper organization, even strong evidence can be dismissed or overlooked.

Most family courts expect a standard format:

• Your exhibits: Letters (A, B, C, D, etc.)
• Opposing party's exhibits: Numbers (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.)
• Label placement: Bottom right corner of each page
• Label size: Clear and legible, typically 12-14pt font

For multi-page exhibits: If Exhibit A has 5 pages, label them as 'Exhibit A - Page 1 of 5', 'Exhibit A - Page 2 of 5', etc. This prevents pages from being misplaced or disputed.

An exhibit list is a table that describes each exhibit. It's typically filed with your motion or presented at the hearing.

Basic format:

• Exhibit A: Text messages between parties (03/15/2025 - 04/20/2025)
• Exhibit B: Bank statement showing missed payment (May 2025)
• Exhibit C: Email from opposing party re: custody (06/10/2025)

The Clerk of Court or local rules may have a specific exhibit list template. Check before creating your own.

Choose one of two main approaches based on what makes your narrative clearer:

• Chronological Order: Best for showing patterns over time or a sequence of events (January emails, February texts, March incident report)
• Topic-Based Order: Best for addressing multiple issues separately (Financial records, Custody communication, Medical documentation)

Physical organization tips: Use binder tabs for each exhibit, three-hole punch all documents, keep exhibits in order at all times, don't remove anything once assembled, and practice referencing exhibits before the hearing.

Minimum requirements:

• Original exhibits (for the judge)
• Two complete copies (one for opposing party, one for you)
• Exhibit list (3 copies)
• Binder or folder to keep everything organized
• Case number and hearing date clearly marked on the cover

Some judges require advance submission of exhibits. Check your local rules or the hearing notice for deadlines.

• Using numbers instead of letters: If you're the petitioner or moving party, stick with letters to avoid confusion
• Inconsistent labeling: Don't call something 'Exhibit A' in your motion and then 'Text Messages' in court
• Missing page numbers: Multi-page exhibits without page numbers are easy to dispute. Always use 'Page X of Y' format
• Forgetting copies: If you show up with only one copy, the judge may continue the hearing. Bring three sets minimum
• Labeling after filing: Label exhibits before you file your motion. Retroactive labeling creates confusion

This guide reflects common practices in U.S. family courts, but each jurisdiction has specific requirements:

• Some courts require exhibit lists to be filed 48 hours before the hearing
• Some courts use color-coded labels (e.g., yellow for petitioner, blue for respondent)
• Some courts require electronic submission through an e-filing portal
• Some courts prohibit loose documents and require binding

Always check: Local Rules of Civil Procedure for your county, standing orders from your assigned judge, and any instructions in your hearing notice. When in doubt, call the Clerk of Court and ask for exhibit requirements.