Create consistent document identifiers
Bates numbering adds a unique sequential identifier to each selected page. It is commonly used to organize legal productions, investigations, audits and record sets where a plain page number is not specific enough.
Build a prefix, padded number and suffix
Choose a short case or project prefix, a starting number and three to twelve number digits. A prefix of CASE-, a start number of 42 and six digits produces CASE-000042. An optional suffix can mark a volume, confidentiality level or document group.
Continue a sequence across separate PDFs
Process one PDF, note the last identifier, then begin the next PDF at the following number. The completed message reports the first and last labels so you can record the range before moving to another file.
Skip covers or stamp only part of a file
First and last PDF page settings control which sheets receive identifiers. This lets you leave a cover unchanged or apply Bates numbers to a selected section while preserving all other pages.
Place identifiers where they remain readable
Choose any top or bottom corner or a centered position, then adjust the font size and distance from the edge. Bates labels are overlaid on existing content and do not create extra margin space, so inspect the downloaded copy for overlap.
Searchable text without rasterizing pages
The identifier is added as text rather than burning every page into an image. Existing page artwork stays sharp and the Bates label can normally be selected or searched. Complex PDF features and existing digital signatures still require careful review.
Private browser-local processing
Your selected PDF is processed in browser memory and is not uploaded to FigureOwl. This is useful for sensitive files, but your organization may have its own document-production, retention and confidentiality requirements.
Review before relying on the production set
FigureOwl does not certify a legal production. Keep the source PDF, verify every expected page, confirm the first and last identifiers, check orientation and overlap, and record the range in your own production log. Adding identifiers changes the file and invalidates existing digital signatures.