Organizing evidence and exhibits

Courts expect evidence to be presented in an orderly, labeled way. Judges and clerks refer to your documents by exhibit number, and opposing parties are entitled to know what you intend to rely on. Getting your evidence organized early makes hearings less stressful and your filings more persuasive.

Any document in your case can be designated as evidence. Open the document and mark it as an exhibit, and DocTik adds it to your evidence list for that case. You can write a short description of what the item proves — for example, "Text messages showing landlord agreed to repairs."

DocTik helps you assign exhibit labels (Exhibit A, Exhibit B, or 1, 2, 3, depending on your court’s convention) and keeps them in order. Consistent labeling lets you point the judge to "Exhibit C" and have everyone looking at the same thing.

• Give each exhibit a clear, neutral description
• Keep labels consistent across your filings
• Group related items so your story is easy to follow

From your organized evidence, DocTik can assemble an exhibit list — a single document that names each exhibit and its description. Many courts require you to file or exchange an exhibit list before a hearing or trial, and having one ready saves a scramble at the last minute.

• Upload originals where you can; clear scans beat blurry photos
• Keep a date on each item so its place in the timeline is obvious
• Only mark what you actually intend to use — a focused set is more persuasive

For how evidence dates connect to your case timeline, see "Tracking deadlines and your timeline."