What is the purpose of an exhibit log, and what information does it usually contain?

• A. To list all participants in the proceedings; includes names and roles.
• B. To store digital copies of exhibits only.
• C. To track exhibits referenced during proceedings; includes exhibit number, description, date, custodian, and location in the transcript.
• D. To redact all mentions of exhibits in the transcript.

Answer: (C)

Exhibit logs organize every exhibit that’s referenced or admitted during the proceedings. They act as a single, reliable index so the court, counsel, and the reporter can quickly identify an item, confirm it matches the record, and trace its custody and location in the transcript. A typical log lists the exhibit number as the unique identifier, a brief description of the item, the date it was received or admitted, who custodied or produced it, and where it appears or is discussed in the transcript (such as the page or line where it’s referenced). Some logs also note disposition or custody changes to support an ongoing chain of custody. This is why the other options don’t fit: listing participants isn’t the log’s purpose, storing digital copies alone misses the tracking and locating function, and redacting mentions isn’t what an exhibit log does.