CourtPDF

Guide

Remove PDF Metadata Before Submitting Evidence — Free, Private Tool (Updated Nov 5 2025)

Updated Nov 5 2025

Every PDF carries a hidden info card called metadata. It can include the document author, timestamps, editing software, and even workstation names. In a courtroom, that trail might expose who prepared exhibits or when you touched them last.

Courts and opposing counsel increasingly check metadata to challenge authenticity. If the author shows a paralegal's name or the timestamp proves changes after discovery, it can undermine your position. Scrubbing those fields before you file keeps the focus on the actual evidence.

What counts as PDF metadata?

  • Title, author, subject, and keywords: often auto-filled by editing apps.
  • Producer and creator: reveals the software and device responsible for generating the PDF.
  • Creation and modification dates: precise timestamps that might conflict with your testimony.
  • XMP packets: extended metadata blocks that can store usernames, job tickets, or revision history.

Why it matters for legal filings

Discovery rules usually require you to disclose relevant metadata on request. But routine exhibits rarely need author or software details—only the content. By removing them proactively, you avoid accidentally leaking privileged or personal information and keep opposing counsel from cross-checking timestamps against your story.

3-step metadata removal guide

  1. Upload the PDF: Open the PDF Metadata Remover and select one or more files. Everything happens in your browser, so the evidence never uploads.
  2. Review metadata: The tool lists detected fields—author, producer, creation date, and more—with toggle switches to keep or remove each one.
  3. Download the clean version: Click Remove Metadata & Download Clean PDF. Single files download instantly; batches arrive as a ZIP archive.

Privacy-first workflow

CourtPDF's metadata remover rebuilds a fresh PDF locally with only the fields you approve. There's no server involved, making it safe for sealed or confidential evidence. Because the pages are copied directly, the visible content stays identical.

FAQ

Does this upload my PDFs?

No. The PDF Metadata Remover runs entirely in your browser. Files never leave your device, so you can clean exhibits even on air-gapped machines.

What metadata is removed?

The tool strips author, title, subject, producer, creator, creation and modification dates, keywords, and hidden XMP packets. You can toggle individual fields on or off before downloading.

Can I use this for court filings?

Yes. Scrubbing metadata keeps filings anonymous and avoids exposing drafting details. Always retain your original copy in case a judge requests it for review.

Will it change visible content?

No. Pages, images, and text remain untouched. The cleaner rebuilds the PDF with the same visual content while removing only metadata entries.

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