This is part four of a four-part series on formating a Microsoft Word Document. In part 1 of this series, we tackled the problem of keeping Word from automatically formatting our numbered paragraphs. In part 2, we created a style that we can now build from to create numbered paragraphs. In part 3, we created a style for automatic paragraph numbering. As I noted before, I am using Word 2003. These tips may or may not work with other versions.

In this part of the series, we will use the two styles we created to create the substantive part of a pleading. Begin by opening Word and creating a new document. We will pretend that we already have a caption at the top (I will address, in a later post, easy ways to create captions by using tables).

You can just start typing without worrying about formating at this time. Below the break, I have included some language that you can simply cut and paste into your document.

1. Copy the text from below the break.
2. Place your cursor in the first paragaph.
3. On the style toolbar, select your Normal Paragraph style.
4. Select all of the text between the first paragraph and the Wherefore paragraph.
5. On the style toolbar, select your Pleading Paragraph style.
6. Place your cursor in your Wherefore paragraph.
7. On the style toolbar, select your Normal Paragraph style.
8. Place your cursor in the last paragraph.
9. On the style toolbar, select your Pleading Paragraph style.
10. You will see that your paragraph numbering continues from before. If you wish to restart your paragraph numbering, right click in that paragraph. Choose Bullets and Numbering. At the bottom of that window, select the radio button beside Restart numbering.

You now have no reason not to use automatic numbering when creating pleadings.

Now comes Plaintiff Joe Doe by and through his attorneys The Law Firm, and for his claim against Defendant Acme, Inc., states as follows:

John is an individual residing in Cook County, Illinois.

Acme, Inc. is a Delaware corporation duly authorized to conduct business in the State of Illinois. Acme, Inc.’s principal place of business is located in Portland, Maine.

On some day in the past John entered into a contract with Acme in which Acme promised to deliver widgets to John.

Acme has breached the contract by failing to deliver the widgets.

Wherefore John prays that this Court enter judgment in favor of John and against Acme in the amount of a whole bunch of money and grant John all other relief deemed just.

Add this paragraph too that doesn’t really say anything.