What Is Legal Size Paper?
Legal size paper is a standard paper size commonly used for legal documents, contracts, and official records. It measures 8.5 inches by 14 inches (or 216 mm × 356 mm), making it longer than the standard letter size paper (8.5 inches by 11 inches).
This extra length allows for more content per page, making it ideal for legal, business, and professional documents.
Legal Size Paper vs. Other Paper Sizes
Understanding how legal size paper compares to other common paper sizes helps determine its best applications:
| Paper Size | Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (mm) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Letter | 8.5 x 11 | 216 x 279 | Office documents, school papers |
| Legal | 8.5 x 14 | 216 x 356 | Legal contracts, agreements |
| A4 | 8.27 x 11.69 | 210 x 297 | International documents, reports |
| A3 | 11.69 x 16.54 | 297 x 420 | Posters, charts, architectural plans |
Common Uses of Legal Size Paper
Legal size paper is widely used across industries where extensive documentation is required. Below are some key applications:
1. Legal and Government Documents
- Contracts and agreements
- Court pleadings
- Land titles and deeds
- Business permits and licenses
2. Business and Financial Transactions
- Financial reports and ledgers
- Purchase orders and invoices
- Loan agreements and insurance policies
3. Education and Research
- Research papers with extensive footnotes
- Detailed reports and policy documents
- Certificates and transcripts
Legal Size Paper in the Philippines
1. Availability in the Market
Legal size paper is readily available in the Philippines. It can be purchased in:
- Office supply stores (e.g., National Book Store, Office Warehouse, and Pandayan Bookshop)
- Online marketplaces (e.g., Shopee, Lazada, Amazon PH)
- Wholesale suppliers for bulk purchases
2. Paper Types and Quality
In the Philippines, legal size paper is available in various types and thicknesses:
- Bond Paper (70-80 GSM) – Used for printing contracts and reports
- Parchment Paper – Used for certificates and official documents
- Carbonless Paper (NCR) – Used for receipts and multi-page forms
- Specialty Paper – Used for customized legal documents with watermarks
3. Printing Considerations
When printing legal size documents, it is essential to check the printer’s compatibility. Many standard printers support legal paper, but some may require adjustments to the paper tray or print settings.
Where to Buy Legal Size Paper in the Philippines
To help buyers find reliable sources, here are some of the best places to buy legal size paper:
Physical Stores:
- National Book Store – Available in branches nationwide
- Office Warehouse – Offers bulk discounts
- Pandayan Bookshop – Ideal for small businesses and schools
Online Stores:
- Shopee Philippines – Various brands and bulk options
- Lazada Philippines – Competitive pricing and delivery options
- Amazon PH – Ideal for imported specialty papers
Tips for Choosing the Right Legal Size Paper
To ensure you select the best paper for your needs, consider the following factors:
- Purpose – Choose bond paper for general printing, parchment paper for official documents, and NCR paper for receipts.
- Thickness (GSM) – A higher GSM means thicker and more durable paper.
- Printer Compatibility – Ensure your printer supports legal-size paper.
- Bulk Purchasing – Buying in bulk often reduces cost per ream.
Conclusion
Legal size paper plays a crucial role in legal, business, and educational settings. In the Philippines, it is widely available in office supply stores and online platforms. Choosing the right type of paper depends on the intended use, thickness, and printer compatibility. Whether for legal documents, contracts, or reports, having the right legal size paper ensures professionalism and efficiency.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, standards and availability may change over time. Always check with local suppliers or legal professionals for the latest updates.
