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 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)

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 Deadline Calculator →
• Deadline Calculator →