Free Pleading Paper Template (Word, Google Docs, and PDF)
Many courts require legal filings to be formatted on pleading paper, which includes a numbered margin used for citations, objections, and references during hearings.
If you need blank pleading paper for drafting motions, pleadings, or discovery responses, you can download a free pleading paper template below. If you draft pleadings in Google Docs, you can use this pleading paper template for Google Docs.
đź“„ 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.
What Is Pleading Paper?
Pleading paper is a formatting style used in legal filings that places numbered lines along the left margin of the page.
These line numbers allow attorneys and judges to reference specific portions of a document during hearings, depositions, or written rulings.
For example, a judge might say:
“Counsel, please look at page 3, line 17 of the motion.”
The type of pleading paper required may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some courts require 28 numbered lines per page, which is why the format may be called 28-line pleading paper. 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.
What Is a Pleading Template?
A pleading template is a document formatted with pleading paper that also includes placeholder sections for:
- the case caption
- court name
- case number
- title of the pleading
- signature block
Using a legal pleading template saves time because you do not need to recreate the formatting each time you draft a motion or response.
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 Ă— 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:
- Insert a 2-column table with invisible borders.
- Set the left column width to 0.6 inches for numbers.
- Set the right column width to 7.9 inches for text.
- In the left column, insert numbers 1–28 using Numbering → 1, 2, 3….
- 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 → Word Template (.doc).
Name it something like Texas_Pleading_Paper.doc. Next time you file a pleading, open this template — you’ll never have to reset margins or line numbers again.
Common Pleading Paper Mistakes and Quick Fixes
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Line numbers disappear when you insert a table | Re-enable line numbering after table or use the two-column table method throughout. |
| Margins shift when saving to PDF | In File → Options → Advanced, check “Do not use printer metrics to lay out document.” |
| Text prints too close to the line numbers | Increase left margin to 1.75 inches or adjust table column width. |
| Line numbers restart each page | Under Layout → Line Numbers, choose “Continuous.” |
| Caption alignment inconsistent | Use tabs, not spaces, to align party names and “vs.” line. |
Pleading Paper Templates for Legal Filings
Using the correct pleading paper template ensures that your filings meet court formatting requirements and remain easy for judges and opposing counsel to reference.
If you need blank pleading paper, a legal pleading template, or a 28-line pleading paper format, the downloadable templates above can help you start drafting immediately.
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.