What is the purpose of a docket number in legal cases?

A docket number serves primarily as a unique identifier for a specific legal case once it is filed with the court. This number is crucial for organizing and accessing case files, as it allows court personnel, attorneys, and involved parties to quickly locate relevant documents and information associated with that particular case. Each docket number is distinct and helps avoid confusion between different cases, which is especially important in jurisdictions that handle a large volume of legal matters simultaneously.

The other options do not accurately reflect the specific function of a docket number. For example, while knowing the type of ruling or legal fees might be important in a case, that information is not encapsulated within the docket number itself. Additionally, the number of witnesses is also unrelated to the docket number's purpose; it focuses solely on identification and tracking of the case as it moves through the legal system.