When it's used
Initiated at case opening and maintained throughout litigation to organize the physical and electronic file.
Definition
A pleading index is a comprehensive document log that assigns a unique identifier—tab number, Bates range, or exhibit reference—to every pleading, court order, correspondence, discovery item, and exhibit in a case file. Many California superior courts and their local rules expect counsel to maintain organized files that can be quickly audited during case management conferences or handed off to new counsel without confusion. The paralegal creates and maintains the index, ensuring each entry includes the document title, date, party who filed or produced it, and its physical or digital location. A well-maintained pleading index dramatically reduces attorney time spent hunting for documents and is the foundation of efficient trial preparation.