Precise Itemization
Describe each document category clearly (for example, 'emails between X and Y regarding Project A, with attachments and headers') so custodians can run targeted searches without overproduction.
A precise Exhibit A narrows discovery scope, reduces objections, and speeds document collection, lowering legal costs and courtroom delay risks.
Parties preparing or responding to subpoenas, counsel, custodians, and court clerks commonly use Exhibit A to define records requested.
An attorney for the issuing party normally prepares Exhibit A, certifies its scope, and arranges service. They evaluate privilege issues and coordinate any protective order or confidentiality designation before production.
The custodian or records officer for the responding organization reviews Exhibit A, locates and collects responsive files, and may sign a certificate of compliance or declaration attesting to the search and production steps taken.
Describe each document category clearly (for example, 'emails between X and Y regarding Project A, with attachments and headers') so custodians can run targeted searches without overproduction.
State inclusive start and end dates in MM/DD/YYYY format to prevent ambiguity and limit the custodial search burden to relevant time periods.
Name the individual(s) or department responsible for records, provide contact information, and note the physical or electronic location of files.
Specify whether production should be native electronic, PDF, with metadata and load files, or available for in-person inspection, and list required metadata fields.
Include a process for privilege review and a clawback or log procedure to handle privileged items without waiving protections.
Provide exact delivery address, date and time for production or inspection, and acceptable methods (secure file transfer, courier, or in-person review).
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Collection Method | Search terms, custodian interviews |
| Evidence Handling | Write-protect, hash, and chain-of-custody log |
| Export Format | Native files + metadata or PDF |
| Delivery Mechanism | Secure file share or physical media |
Define acceptable file formats, encryption, and transfer methods before service or production to prevent delay and inconsistency.
Often 14–30 days for production unless court order specifies otherwise
Specify exact date and time for production or inspection
Allow reasonable time to prepare a privilege log before production
State available dates and hours for in-person review
Noncompliance may prompt motion practice and sanctions
Define documents, dates, and custodians clearly before issuance
Arrange authorized service and confirm receipt
Custodian locates and segregates responsive materials
Deliver files or permit examination under agreed terms
| Criteria | Subpoena Duces Tecum | Document Request (RFP) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | targets third parties | targets parties to litigation |
| Authority | court or statutory | governed by rules of civil procedure |
| Service | requires proper service | served via counsel in case |
| Enforceability | court-enforceable with contempt | enforceable through motion to compel |
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |