---
title: Why can’t I sort documents manually via handlebars?
description: "If the handlebar icons for manually reordering documents are not visible in a folder, it is because sorting is currently controlled by a date or other automatic sort setting. There are four possible causes. ## **Matter is set up to…"
url: "https://disclosureready.legalready.ai/knowledge/why-cant-i-sort-documents-manually-via-handlebars/"
updated: "2026-08-07"
category: Document Management
---

# Why can’t I sort documents manually via handlebars?

If the handlebar icons for manually reordering documents are not visible in a folder, it is because sorting is currently controlled by a date or other automatic sort setting. There are four possible causes.

## **Matter is set up to sort documents by date**

If the matter-level document sorting is set to **Field: Date**, manual sorting via handlebars will not be available.

To check and change this:

1. Click the **edit pencil** on the right-hand side of the matter in the **Matters** list
2. Under **Document sorting**, check the **Default sort by attribute** setting
3. If it is set to **Date**, change it to **Manual / User-defined** and save

![](https://disclosureready.legalready.ai/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/image-81-1024x730.png)

## **Folder is set up to sort documents by date**

An individual folder may have its own sorting override set to **Field: Date**.

To check and change this:

1. Open the folder and click the **Cog icon** on the right-hand side
2. In the **Edit Folder** panel, check the **Document ordering** setting under the **Settings** tab
3. If it is set to **Field: Date**, change it to **Manual / User-defined** and click **Update**

![](https://disclosureready.legalready.ai/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Screenshot-2025-06-24-at-23.17.11-1024x576.png)

## **Upload History does not allow manual sorting**

The Upload History folder is a system folder and does not support manual sorting via handlebars. This is expected behaviour.

![](https://disclosureready.legalready.ai/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/image-82-1024x311.png)

## **Freeze numbering is activated on the document**

If a document has freeze numbering enabled, it will show a lock icon next to the document reference and manual reordering will be restricted.

To remove this:

1. Click the **edit pencil** on the document
2. Go to the **Advanced** tab
3. Under **Freeze numbering**, select **None** and click **Update**

![](https://disclosureready.legalready.ai/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/image-83-1024x484.png)

For further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated Support Team via [support@legalready.ai](mailto:support@legalready.ai) or +61 3 9020 4456.