What Size Is Legal Paper?
When it comes to paper sizes, there are various standards followed across the globe. One such standard is legal paper size. Legal paper is commonly used for official documents, contracts, and legal letters. In this article, we will discuss the size of legal paper, its dimensions, and how it differs from other paper sizes.
Legal paper size is defined as 8.5 inches by 14 inches, or 216 mm by 356 mm in metric measurements. It is slightly longer and narrower than the standard letter-size paper, which measures 8.5 inches by 11 inches. The additional length of legal paper allows for more content to be included on a single page, making it ideal for legal documents that often contain extensive text.
Legal paper is commonly used in countries like the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Philippines. It is important to note that legal paper size may vary in other parts of the world. For instance, in countries following ISO standards, such as most of Europe and Asia, the standard paper size is A4, which measures 210 mm by 297 mm. Therefore, it is essential to consider the specific paper size requirements when dealing with international documents.
Legal paper can be easily purchased from stationery stores, office suppliers, or online retailers. It is available in both loose sheets and pre-punched formats for use in binders. The weight of legal paper can also vary, ranging from standard 20 lb. to thicker 24 lb. options, depending on the desired durability and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Why is it called legal paper?
A: Legal paper got its name due to its extensive use in the legal field. It is commonly used for legal documents, contracts, and other official papers.
Q: Can legal paper be used for printing regular documents?
A: Yes, legal paper can be used for printing regular documents. However, it is important to adjust the printer settings to ensure proper alignment and avoid cutting off any content.
Q: How does legal paper differ from letter-size paper?
A: Legal paper is longer and narrower than letter-size paper. The extra length allows for more content to be included on a single page.
Q: Can I use legal paper in a standard printer?
A: Yes, legal paper can be used in a standard printer. Most modern printers have adjustable paper trays that can accommodate different paper sizes.
Q: Are there any other paper sizes commonly used in the legal field?
A: Apart from legal paper, there are other paper sizes used in the legal field, such as folio and quarto. However, legal paper is the most widely used due to its practicality and compatibility with standard office equipment.
Q: Can I trim letter-size paper to legal size?
A: While it is possible to trim letter-size paper to legal size, it is recommended to use pre-cut legal-size paper to ensure proper dimensions and alignment.
Q: Are there any other variations of legal paper size?
A: Legal paper size typically refers to the standard 8.5 inches by 14 inches dimensions. However, in some cases, legal-size paper may be slightly shorter or longer, depending on specific requirements or regional preferences.
In conclusion, legal paper size is 8.5 inches by 14 inches, or 216 mm by 356 mm. It is commonly used for legal documents and is slightly longer and narrower than letter-size paper. Legal paper can be easily obtained from various sources and is compatible with most printers. However, it is essential to consider international standards when dealing with documents across different countries. Regardless of its name, legal paper can be used for a variety of purposes, making it a versatile option for official and personal use alike.