To start aligning your text, use exact line spacing instead of single or double spacing. The pleading line number spacing is set to exactly 24 pt, so you have to ensure that the side numbering matches the spacing of the text, which should also be set to 24-point spacing.
Pleading form with 28 lines.
All pleadings have the same basic structure,5 starting with the caption at the top of the first page. The caption states the name of the court at the top and, on the right side of the pleading, the type of pleading,6 the case number (or docket number), and the name of the judge.
Draft your pleading on legal paper and include your identifying information and a caption that states the involved parties and case number. Draft the body with numbered paragraphs, double spacing, clear headings, and page numbers. Include a certificate of service in your submission.
“Pleading paper” is the format required for filing documents in court when there is no pre-printed form available. This pleading paper is blank and can be used anywhere 28-line paper is accepted. Check your court's local rules for other format requirements such as fonts, font size, and line spacing.
For example, a legal pleading might involve a complaint from a homeowner that a roofer did not adequately perform a repair, resulting in a leak in the roof and damage to the home. The roofer could then file an answer to the claim, denying culpability.
Comply With the Relevant Federal, State, and Local Rules. Research Before Writing. Allege Subject Matter Jurisdiction, Personal Jurisdiction, and Venue. Jurisdiction. Draft Concise and Plain Statement of the Facts. Factual Allegations. Draft Separate Counts for Each Legal Claim. Plead Facts With Particularity Where Necessary.
Select Line Numbering Options, and then select the Layout tab. In the Apply to list, click Selected sections. Select Line Numbers. Select the Add line numbering check box, and then select the options that you want.
And we're going to talk about how to download and work with a pleading template that Microsoft has sort of tucked and hidden away in its templates gallery. To get to it, you're going to open Microsoft Word. Whether you're on a PC or a Mac, this will be the same.
You can either change the layout from the View main menu ribbon or the Status bar at the bottom of the page. To add the line numbers, navigate to the Layout main menu ribbon. Under the Page Setup section, click on the dropdown from Line Numbers.