Document Production Bates Numbering Tool

How It Works

Bates numbering seems simple until you're managing rolling productions

across thousands of documents with continuity requirements. This skill

handles the numbering, logging, and cross-referencing.

What You Get

• Automated Bates number application to PDF documents
• Configurable format (prefix, zero-padding, position on page)
• Continuity tracking across rolling productions
• Production log generation (Bates range, document description, custodian)
• Cross-reference with privilege log (privileged documents excluded from numbering)
• Confidentiality stamp application alongside Bates numbers
• Production set tracking (what was produced when, to whom)

Setup Steps

1. Configure your Bates numbering format and starting number
2. Point at your production-ready document folder
3. Review and apply
4. Generate the production log

Tips

• Always verify continuity before serving a production — gaps in numbering trigger opposing counsel scrutiny
• The privilege log cross-reference ensures withheld documents are properly accounted for in your numbering log
• Use consistent formatting across all productions in a case
• Save the production log — you'll need it for the production index at trial