In this video we will walk through an overview of Client & Matter sections within Practice Pro.
Overview
In this article, we'll take a high-level tour of clients and matters, highlighting the key tabs and information available within each. Most of our focus will be on the matter, which acts as the central hub for managing everything related to a specific case or project. The client is very similar in structure, but it represents the broader client relationship and brings together the information for all matters associated with that client.
Ways to Access a Matter
Global search bar
Enter the matter name or number
Matters in the left side bar
Select the matter from the list
Ways to Access a Client
Global search bar
Enter the client name or number
Contacts in the left side bar
Filter by Is Client > Yes
Select the matter or client from the list
Quick Action Buttons at the Top of a Matter
Once you open a matter, you'll see several action buttons at the top of the screen that provide quick access to common matter-related tasks:
Add Tag- Add tags to help organize and filter matters.
Create a Document- Create documents through your integrated document management system.
Client Transfer- Transfer the matter to a different client.
Import/Export- Import a task blueprint to quickly add a predefined set of tasks.
Billing Actions- Perform billing actions such as generating pre-bills and billing statements or receiving payments.
Delete- Delete the matter.
Matter Header
The Matter header provides quick access to the key information and settings for the matter through several tabs:
Overview- Displays primary identifying details, including matter name, number, assigned originator, and status.
Details- Contains classification information such as matter type, subtype, and statute of limitations.
LEDES- Indicates whether LEDES billing is enabled for the Matter, with options to adjust settings.
Billing- Shows billing preferences, including billing type, notes, and trust settings.
Matter Tabs
The matter is organized into multiple tabs, each serving a distinct purpose. Each tab is designed to provide quick access to the tools and information needed to manage the Matter efficiently, ensuring that users can navigate the system with ease.
Tasks- Lists all tasks associated with the Matter, allowing users to create, filter, and manage tasks visually through a Gantt Chart view.
Zen KM (Knowledge Management)- Houses information related to the Matter, including connections and memos.
Memos- Stores internal notes related to the Matter.
Info- Contains custom fields associated with the Matter, which can be populated for document generation.
Files- Connects to the firm’s document management system, providing access to all documents related to the Matter.
Connections- Lists people and organizations associated with the Matter, such as opposing counsel and witnesses.
Charges- Displays time entries and expense entries recorded for the Matter, with editing and filtering options available.
Roles- Allows assignment of role groups and custom rates for team members working on the Matter.
Events- Shows calendar events linked to the Matter through Outlook integration.
Mail- Contains emails linked to the Matter, ensuring important communications are stored within the system.
Trust Transactions- Displays the trust ledger for the Matter, tracking all financial transactions related to trust accounts.
Credit Transfers- Allows users to manage overpayments or credits between Matters.
Security- Enables the creation of ethical walls for sensitive Matters, restricting access to authorized users only.
History- Acts as an audit trail, showing activity related to the Matter.
Settings- Provides options to customize settings specific to the Matter, such as invoice templates and billing arrangements.
Client Tabs
The Client tabs provide quick access to the key information for the client across all matters associated with that client through several tabs:
Details- Shows client-specific details such as contact information, including phone numbers and addresses.
Connections- Lists people and organizations associated with the Client, such as opposing counsel and witnesses.
Memos- Stores internal notes related to the Client.
Info- Contains custom fields associated with the Client, which can be populated for document generation.
Files- Connects to the firm’s document management system, providing access to all documents related to the Client.
Matters- Shows all Matters associated with the Client.
Events- Shows calendar events linked to the Client through Outlook integration.
Roles- Allows assignment of role groups and custom rates for team members working on the Client.
Charges- Displays time entries and expense entries recorded for the Client, with editing and filtering options available.
Billing- Displays billing records for the Client, with editing and filtering options available.
Trust Transactions- Displays the trust ledger for the Client, tracking all financial transactions related to trust accounts.
Portal- Allows firms to enable secure portal access for clients, allowing them to view invoices and make payments online.
History- Acts as an audit trail, showing activity related to the Client.
Settings- Provides options to customize settings specific to the Client, such as invoice templates and billing arrangements.
