How to Create a Trial Notebook

Building a trial notebook can feel overwhelming the first time you prepare for trial. But once you have a structure and a clean template, it becomes one of the most powerful organization tools in litigation.

What Is a Trial Notebook?

A trial notebook is the binder or digital folder you carry into trial. It holds every document you’ll need in court: pleadings, motions, orders, exhibits, witness lists and outlines, jury instructions, and your day-by-day notes. For litigators, a well-organized trial notebook can mean the difference between being prepared and scrambling.

Why Every Litigator Needs One

  • Stay organized. Easily access key documents during trial without flipping through stacks.
  • Manage exhibits. Know your Bates numbers, admissibility, and how to present each one.
  • Guide your strategy. With witness outlines and motion logs in one place, you stay ahead of opposing counsel.

Trial Notebook Sections (What to Include)

SectionPurpose
Case Information SheetCaption, court, cause number, parties, contacts.
PleadingsComplaint, answer, motions, pre-trial orders.
DiscoveryKey responses, deposition summaries, RFP logs.
Exhibits ListBates numbers, description, admissibility status.
Witness List & OutlinesContact info, direct and cross examination outlines.
Motions in LimineFiled versions and rulings.
Jury Instructions / Verdict FormDrafts and final versions.
Notes & ObservationsTrial day summaries, judge’s remarks, opponent’s strategy.

Digital Trial Notebooks

Whether you prefer a physical binder or a digital system, you can build a trial notebook in tools like Microsoft OneNote, Evernote, or SharePoint. The advantage? Searchable content, easier updates, and quick sharing with co-counsel.

Folder structure example:

  • 01_CaseInfo
  • 02_Pleadings
  • 03_Discovery
  • 04_Exhibits
  • 05_Witnesses
  • 06_MotionsInLimine
  • 07_JuryInstr_Verdict
  • 08_TrialNotes

Inside each folder, use a consistent naming format like “Date-DocumentName-Version” to avoid confusion during trial.

Related Resources

FAQ

What is a trial notebook used for?

A trial notebook brings together all key documents you’ll need in court so you don’t waste time digging through files.

What should be included in a trial notebook?

See the “Trial Notebook Sections” table above for a full breakdown of recommended components.

How do you organize a digital trial notebook?

Create a clear folder structure (as shown above) and use consistent naming for documents so everything remains searchable.

Is there a required format for trial notebooks in court?

No. Most courts don’t mandate a set format. The value lies in your preparedness and how you use the notebook in real time.

How early should I start preparing my trial notebook?

Begin assembling it at the start of litigation events (pleadings, motions, discovery). Update it as you receive new documents. Don’t wait until trial week.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify your trial-prep processes, filing practices, and court-specific requirements.

Federal Answer Deadlines (FRCP 12(a)) — 2025 Guide

When you’re served with a complaint in federal court, the clock starts ticking fast. The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) set strict time limits for filing an answer or responsive motion. Missing a federal deadline can result in a default judgment — so it’s critical to understand the rules and exceptions.

This page summarizes the key federal answer deadlines under Rule 12(a) and provides a quick reference chart to keep your filings on track.

🕒 How Long Do I Have to Answer a Federal Lawsuit?

Under Rule 12(a)(1)(A) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure:

  • A defendant must serve an answer within 21 days after being served with the summons and complaint.
  • If the defendant has waived service under Rule 4(d), the answer is due within 60 days after the waiver request was sent (or 90 days if the defendant is outside the United States).
  • If a motion under Rule 12(b) (e.g., to dismiss) is filed, the time to answer is suspended until 14 days after the court denies the motion or postpones its disposition.

⚖️ Federal Answer Deadline Chart

Type of ServiceTime to AnswerRule Reference
Personal service in the U.S.21 days after serviceFRCP 12(a)(1)(A)(i)
Waiver of service (U.S. defendant)60 days after request sentFRCP 12(a)(1)(A)(ii)
Waiver of service (defendant outside U.S.)90 days after request sentFRCP 12(a)(1)(A)(ii)
U.S. agency, officer, or employee sued in official capacity60 days after service on U.S. attorneyFRCP 12(a)(2)
United States (as defendant)60 days after service on U.S. attorneyFRCP 12(a)(2)
Federal officer or employee sued individually for acts under color of office60 days after service on officer and U.S. attorneyFRCP 12(a)(3)
After court denies or postpones a Rule 12 motion14 days after orderFRCP 12(a)(4)

💡 Common Scenarios

Multiple Defendants

Each defendant’s 21-day clock runs independently from the date they were served.

Amended Complaints

If a complaint is amended, a new 14-day window opens for any defendant who has already answered, unless the court orders otherwise (FRCP 15(a)(3)).

Cross-Claims and Counterclaims

The responding party has 21 days after service of the pleading containing the claim to file an answer (FRCP 12(a)(1)(B)).

Service by Mail or Waiver

When service is waived under Rule 4(d), defendants effectively gain an extension to 60 or 90 days, but they waive objections to service itself.

⚙️ How to Calculate Federal Answer Deadlines

Federal time computation is governed by Rule 6(a):

  1. Exclude the day of service.
  2. Count every day afterward, including weekends and holidays.
  3. If the last day falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline extends to the next business day.

Example:
If served on March 1, the 21-day period ends March 22.
If March 22 is a Sunday, the answer is due Monday, March 23, by 11:59 p.m. local court time.

🧮 Need a Quick Calculation?

👉 Use the Deadline Calculator

⚠️ Avoid Default

Federal courts strictly enforce answer deadlines. If you miss one, opposing counsel may move for default under Rule 55(a). Reversing a default requires showing both excusable neglect and a meritorious defense — something far more difficult than answering on time.

📘 Related Resources

Disclaimer

This resource is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify deadlines using the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, local court rules, and applicable orders in your case.

How to Make Pleading Paper in Word | Free Legal Template (2025)

How to Make Pleading Paper in Microsoft Word (Free Template + Step-by-Step Guide)

Formatting pleading paper in Word can be surprisingly frustrating. The line numbers shift, the margins don’t quite line up, and every court seems to have its own requirements. Whether you’re a solo attorney, paralegal, or pro se filer, this guide will walk you through the process — and give you a free downloadable Word template that’s ready to file.

What Is Pleading Paper?

“Pleading paper” is the ruled document format required for many court filings. It includes numbered lines (usually 28 per page) along the left margin and a wide left gutter where the line numbers appear. Courts use this format to standardize page length and make legal documents easy to cite by line.

In Texas, most district and county courts do not require ruled pleading paper, but many self-represented litigants and out-of-state lawyers prefer the format for consistency. In states like California, pleading paper is mandatory. Regardless of jurisdiction, knowing how to create it in Word ensures your filings always look professional.

Step-by-Step: Create Pleading Paper in Microsoft Word

Here’s the process most courts will accept, explained in plain English.

1. Open a New Document

Open Microsoft Word and start with a blank document. Set the paper size to Letter (8.5 × 11 in.) unless your court requires legal size.

2. Adjust Margins

Go to Layout → Margins → Custom Margins.
Set:

  • Left: 1.5 inches (to leave room for line numbers)
  • Right: 1 inch
  • Top / Bottom: 1 inch

Click OK.

3. Turn On Line Numbering

In the Layout tab, choose Line Numbers → Continuous.
Word will automatically number every line in the document’s main body. If you prefer fixed-position numbers in a left column (as some courts require), use the table method below.

4. Optional: Create a Fixed Numbered Column

If your jurisdiction needs line numbers that print in the margin rather than inline:

  1. Insert a 2-column table with invisible borders.
  2. Set the left column width to 0.6 inches for numbers.
  3. Set the right column width to 7.9 inches for text.
  4. In the left column, insert numbers 1–28 using Numbering → 1, 2, 3….
  5. Format the right column for your actual pleading text.

This creates a permanent left-margin column that prints perfectly.

5. Add a Caption Block

At the top, type your caption (court name, case number, parties, and title). Center the court name, then use Tabs to align “Plaintiff” and “Defendant” lines in opposing columns if needed. You can copy the structure from any sample pleading in your jurisdiction.

6. Save as a Template

Choose File → Save As → Browse → Word Template (.dotx).
Name it something like Texas_Pleading_Paper.dotx. Next time you file a pleading, open this template — you’ll never have to reset margins or line numbers again.

Download the Ready-Made Template

You can skip all of the above and use our pre-formatted template.

📄 Download the Free Pleading Paper Template

Create professionally formatted pleadings instantly in Microsoft Word. This template is fully editable, margin-corrected, and compatible with Word’s built-in line numbering feature.

Download Pleading Paper Template (.docx)

No signup required. Opens directly in Microsoft Word.

👉 Download Free Pleading Paper Template for Word (.docx)

The template follows standard line-number spacing and margin rules and can be easily adapted for local requirements.

Common Pleading Paper Mistakes (and Quick Fixes)

ProblemFix
Line numbers disappear when you insert a tableRe-enable line numbering after table or use the two-column table method throughout.
Margins shift when saving to PDFIn File → Options → Advanced, check “Do not use printer metrics to lay out document.”
Text prints too close to the line numbersIncrease left margin to 1.75 inches or adjust table column width.
Line numbers restart each pageUnder Layout → Line Numbers, choose “Continuous.”
Caption alignment inconsistentUse tabs, not spaces, to align party names and “vs.” line.

Bonus: Automate Your Court Deadlines

If you’re formatting a pleading, you’re probably working against a filing deadline. CourtDeadlines.com offers free calculators to determine due dates for Texas and federal courts.

Texas Answer Date Chart

Texas Answer Deadline Chart 2025

Applies to Texas district and county courts. Under Tex. R. Civ. P. 99(b), a defendant must file a written answer by 10:00 a.m. on the first Monday after the expiration of 20 days following service of citation. For answers by publication, see Tex. R. Civ. P. 114.

How It Works — Tex. R. Civ. P. 99(b)

Plain-English rule: Count 20 calendar days from the service date. Then find the first Monday after that 20-day period. The answer is due by 10:00 a.m. on that Monday.

Holiday note: If that Monday is a Texas court holiday, the due date shifts to the next business day (typically Tuesday). Always verify local holiday schedules.

Scope: This chart is built for Texas district and county courts (state court). It does not apply to federal cases. For publication service deadlines, see Tex. R. Civ. P. 114 (42-day rule).

Date of ServiceAnswer Due (by 10:00 a.m.)
Dec 31 – Jan 06January 27, 2025
Jan 07 – Jan 13February 03, 2025
Jan 14 – Jan 20February 10, 2025
Jan 21 – Jan 27February 17, 2025
Jan 28 – Feb 03February 24, 2025
Feb 04 – Feb 10March 03, 2025
Feb 11 – Feb 17March 10, 2025
Feb 18 – Feb 24March 17, 2025
Feb 25 – Mar 03March 24, 2025
Mar 04 – Mar 10March 31, 2025
Mar 11 – Mar 17April 07, 2025
Mar 18 – Mar 24April 14, 2025
Mar 25 – Mar 31April 21, 2025
Apr 01 – Apr 07April 28, 2025
Apr 08 – Apr 14May 05, 2025
Apr 15 – Apr 21May 12, 2025
Apr 22 – Apr 28May 19, 2025
Apr 29 – May 05May 26, 2025 Holiday*
May 06 – May 12June 02, 2025
May 13 – May 19June 09, 2025
May 20 – May 26June 16, 2025
May 27 – Jun 02June 23, 2025
Jun 03 – Jun 09June 30, 2025
Jun 10 – Jun 16July 07, 2025
Jun 17 – Jun 23July 14, 2025
Jun 24 – Jun 30July 21, 2025
Jul 01 – Jul 07July 28, 2025
Jul 08 – Jul 14August 04, 2025
Jul 15 – Jul 21August 11, 2025
Jul 22 – Jul 28August 18, 2025
Jul 29 – Aug 04August 25, 2025
Aug 05 – Aug 11September 01, 2025 Holiday*
Aug 12 – Aug 18September 08, 2025
Aug 19 – Aug 25September 15, 2025
Aug 26 – Sep 01September 22, 2025
Sep 02 – Sep 08September 29, 2025
Sep 09 – Sep 15October 06, 2025
Sep 16 – Sep 22October 13, 2025
Sep 23 – Sep 29October 20, 2025
Sep 30 – Oct 06October 27, 2025
Oct 07 – Oct 13November 03, 2025
Oct 14 – Oct 20November 10, 2025
Oct 21 – Oct 27November 17, 2025
Oct 28 – Nov 03November 24, 2025
Nov 04 – Nov 10December 01, 2025
Nov 11 – Nov 17December 08, 2025
Nov 18 – Nov 24December 15, 2025
Nov 25 – Dec 01December 22, 2025
Dec 02 – Dec 08December 29, 2025
Dec 09 – Dec 15January 05, 2026
Dec 16 – Dec 22January 12, 2026
Dec 23 – Dec 29January 19, 2026
Dec 30 – Jan 05January 26, 2026

* If the listed Monday is a Texas court holiday and courts are closed, the answer is due the next business day (typically Tuesday). This chart is informational only—verify deadlines against the current Texas Rules of Civil Procedure and any applicable local rules/holiday schedules.

Federal Rule 26(f) Conference and Initial Disclosure Deadlines

Federal Rule 26(f) Conference and Initial Disclosure Deadlines – FRCP 26 Quick Reference

Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26(f), parties must hold a discovery planning conference at least 21 days before the court’s Rule 16(b) scheduling order deadline. Initial disclosures under Rule 26(a)(1) are due 14 days after the conference, and the joint discovery plan must also be submitted within 14 days. These deadlines trigger the entire federal discovery process, and failure to comply can result in sanctions.

Rule 26(f) Conference

ActionDeadlineRuleNotes
Meet and confer conferenceAt least 21 days before the scheduling order is due under Rule 16(b)FRCP 26(f)(1)Parties must discuss discovery plan, settlement, ESI, and preservation.
Written discovery plan14 days after Rule 26(f) conferenceFRCP 26(f)(2)Plan must be submitted to the court.

Initial Disclosures (FRCP 26(a)(1))

ActionDeadlineRuleNotes
Exchange of initial disclosures14 days after Rule 26(f) conferenceFRCP 26(a)(1)(C)Includes witness info, documents, damages computations, insurance agreements.
Extensions/modificationsBy stipulation or court orderFRCP 26(a)(1)(C)Local rules may alter timing (check judge’s standing orders).

Rule 16 Scheduling Order

ActionDeadlineRuleNotes
Court must issue scheduling orderThe earlier of 90 days after service of complaint on any defendant or 60 days after appearanceFRCP 16(b)(2)Rule 26(f) conference must occur ≥21 days before this deadline.

Deadline Data Bites:

  • The Rule 26(f) conference triggers the entire discovery timeline.
  • Failing to hold the conference or exchange disclosures can lead to sanctions under FRCP 37.
  • Many judges issue standing orders that accelerate or expand Rule 26 obligations — always check local rules.
  • No discovery may be served before the Rule 26(f) conference, unless allowed by rule or court order.

Texas Supplemental Discovery Deadline Chart

Texas Discovery Supplementation Deadlines – TRCP 193.5 and 193.6 Quick Reference

Under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 193.5, parties have a continuing duty to supplement discovery responses that are incomplete or incorrect. Supplementation must be made reasonably promptly after the need is discovered, and in all cases no later than 30 days before trial. Failure to timely supplement can result in exclusion of witnesses, experts, or evidence at trial unless good cause or lack of unfair surprise is shown under TRCP 193.6.

Duty to Supplement (TRCP 193.5(a))

TriggerObligationNotes
Response was incomplete or incorrect when madeMust amend or supplementApplies to all forms of discovery.
Response was complete when made but later became incorrect/incompleteMust amend or supplementExample: new witnesses, new documents, updated damages.

Deadline to Supplement (TRCP 193.5(b))

SituationDeadlineNotes
General supplementation“Reasonably promptly” after party learns of the needStandard = don’t delay once you know.
Absolute cutoff for expert/designation supplementationNo later than 30 days before trialApplies to both fact and expert discovery.

Consequences of Failing to Supplement (TRCP 193.6)

  • Evidence, witnesses, or experts not properly supplemented = excluded at trial unless:
    1. Good cause is shown for the failure, or
    2. The court finds no unfair surprise or prejudice.
  • The burden is on the party offering the late-disclosed evidence.

Key Takeaways

  • Supplementation is an ongoing duty under TRCP 193.5.
  • “Reasonably promptly” is flexible but always judged by fairness and timing.
  • The 30-day before trial deadline is absolute — no supplementation after that date without risking exclusion.
  • Always err on the side of over-disclosing and updating promptly.