In LL 5.1, Parties got a lot of love. In fact, they got a whole new interface and data engine called Interview. Now, unlike before, Parties can easily link multiple cases within a record.
Before, parties were static entries–associated only with a single case within a single record. Each time a user created a new case, all the party information needed to be re-entered. This was inefficient and ineffective.
It also prevented robust data collection because it was not dynamic and the data would not travel with the party as his or her case developed over time. LL 5.0 was built on the fly to accommodate an urgent need for the pro bono defense teams for the Artesia Pro Bono Project.
In LL 5.1, all Parties are managed through Interview. In Interview strategic information about the client (history, claim, story, family; all information that will help to build their case) is recorded. The Interview engine is gleaming machine that is built to do even more. Under-the-hood, it’s engine is designed to support our next generation legal analysis modules to help you spot troublesome admissibility, eligibility, and long term relief.
Interview requires that each Party have a first name, last name, date of birth, and gender. This allows for the engine to identify and link parties to the appropriate case.
Transition tip: For parties entered in 5.0, you will be required to add the required information the first time you seek to update that record.
You create a new record by starting a new interview.
There are 5 required fields to create a new record: the primary party’s first and last name, the date the record is opened, the assigned attorney, and the case type. After this information is entered the “create” button activates. Click Create. Creating a new record will also automatically create a new case. (The primary party will be linked to the record and the case.)
Pro tip: Leave the Record ID blank. LawLab will auto-assign a unique Record ID number that you can use for LawLab, the physical file, and all of your data systems. The number begins with the year and followed with a 4 digit sequential number, e.g., 20170045 (means the 45th record created in 2017). Once a Record ID is assigned, it cannot be changed. It is a permanent, unique identifier.
That’s it. You can now immediately switch to Docket to begin adding additional case information, upload documents, enter case notes, set reminders or use Interview to update party information and add additional parties.
Pro tip: We like to quickly add the key Personal Details at this point: the date of birth, country of birth, relationship, language and the A# if available. LawLab won’t require you to do before switching to the Docket (and adding case information), but it is a best practice and helps speed up searches later.
