What is pleading paper?
The term “pleading paper” is used to describe the format of a document that is filed with the Court when a pre-made form is not available. If there is not a California or Local Court form to fit your situation (see links below to search pre-made court forms), you will need to draft your own pleading or motion on pleading paper. The guidelines for pleading paper format are found in California Rules of Court, rule 2.100, et. seq.
Pleading Paper Downloadable Template (A shortcut to this document is also available on the desktop of RCLL's public computers)
There are typed examples of what information belongs on the document as a place holder. You will need to delete the generic information and replace it with information specific to you. Do not change the spacing on the first page of the document. Remember it is pre-formatted to meet court requirements.
- Your name must start on line 1
- The Court name and location must start on line 8
- The caption of the case must start on line 11
- You must have a footer with the title of the document
- After the caption (the box with the name of the Plaintiff/Respondent) you can use the space as needed, using double spacing
*If you are accessing this document from our public computers, you must download it to your own USB flash drive or email it to yourself. RCLL's computers will not save your document after your session expires.
Recommended Resources
Online:
California Judicial Branch Court Forms
Riverside Superior Court Local Forms
Books:
(All titles are available electronically from any RCLL location unless otherwise noted. Ask staff about remote availability.)
California Forms of Pleadings & Practice Annotated (LexisNexis)
Available in print: Riverside, Palm Springs, Temecula
Call Number: KFC 1010 .A65 C3
California Civil Procedure Before Trial (CEB)
Available in print: Riverside, Palm Springs
Call Number: KFC 1025.A75 C344
See Chapter 11
Witkin California Procedure (Bancroft Whitney)
Available in print: Riverside, Palm Springs, Temecula
Call Number: KFC 995 .W526
See Chapter V Part I Subpart E
Please Note: The information presented in this information sheet is intended to provide information over a particular subject. For information pertaining to your case please consult with an attorney, court facilitator or specialist.
Revised 10/27/25
