Free Checklist Templates for Law Firm

Law Firm
OR

Attorney Offboarding Checklist

Administrative Offboarding
Update and store employee records (e.g. contracts, vacation, sick leave, etc.)
Terminate access to corporate systems (e.g. emails, networks, applications, etc.)
Remove employee from payroll and benefits system
Collect equipment, keys, and access cards
Notify relevant stakeholders (e.g. clients, colleagues, etc.)
Financial Offboarding
Close corporate bank accounts and credit cards
Update accounts receivable records
Update accounts payable records
Calculate vacation pay and other benefits
Finalize any outstanding payments or reimbursements
Legal Offboarding
Review existing contracts for termination or transfer clauses
Document the reasons for termination
Check for any potential legal liabilities
Check for any potential conflicts of interest
Ensure employee has received all required documents (e.g. severance agreement, COBRA forms, etc.)
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Attorney Onboarding Checklist

Recruiting
Post job advertisement
Screen and interview candidates
Verify qualifications
Create job offer and negotiate salary
Onboarding
Complete paperwork (e.g. W-4, I-9, Background Check)
Discuss benefits and discuss company policies
Perform orientation
Assign physical space and office equipment
Training
Develop individualized training plan
Orient attorney to legal software/systems
Provide detailed job instructions
Schedule training sessions
Monitor progress
Professional Development
Establish relationships with mentors
Establish relationships with other attorneys
Identify and discuss professional development goals
Develop strategies to reach goals
Ongoing Support
Assign an onboarding buddy
Provide frequent check-ins
Monitor progress towards goals
Offer resources for any issues that arise
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Billing Checklist

Client Information
Client name
Invoice number
Date of invoice
Invoice amount
Billing Details
Description of services
Number of hours/units billed
Hourly rate
Payment terms
Fee schedule
Accounting Information
Name of accountant
Accounting contact information
Accounting software used
Accounting policies and procedures
Payment Tracking
Receipt of payment
Payment method
Payment date
Payment amount
Filing Information
Date filing was sent
Date filing was received
Copy of filing
Copy of invoice
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Case Management Checklist

Client Intake
Gather all necessary documents and information
Review documents and information for accuracy
Draft a case intake form
Follow up with client for any additional information needed
Obtain signed retainer agreement
Case Management
Set up case file
Identify applicable laws and regulations
Research and review relevant case law
Draft pleadings and motions
Monitor deadlines
File pleadings and motions
Request discovery
Analyze and respond to discovery requests
Prepare witnesses and evidence
Attend hearings and trial
Negotiate settlements
Closing Out
Prepare and file final order or judgment
Follow up with client on status of case
Close out case file
Disburse funds
Send final invoice to client
Update practice management system with case status
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Client Feedback Checklist

Introduction
Provide a brief introduction to the purpose of the client feedback checklist
Explain the importance of gathering feedback from clients
Client Demographics
Collect information about the client such as name, contact information, and legal representation (if applicable)
Gather demographic information such as age, gender, and geographic location
Questions
Include questions about the law firm’s services, staff, environment, and overall client experience
Provide a variety of question formats such as multiple choice, open-ended, and rating scales
Include questions about the client’s satisfaction with their legal representation
Follow-Up
Provide contact information for questions or follow-up inquiries
Explain the timeline for when the feedback should be collected
Outline the process for reviewing and responding to client feedback
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Client Intake Checklist

Client Information
Name
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
Case Information
Case Summary
Legal Issue
Type of Matter
Objectives
Fees and Costs
Agreed Upon Fees
Estimated Costs
Payment Terms
Documentation
Relevant Documents
Client Authorization
Conflict of Interest Waiver
Retainer Agreement
Background Check
Previous Legal Representation
Criminal Record
Credit History
Background Information
Communication
Preferred Method of Communication
Timeline for Updates
Instructions for Reviewing Documents
Expectations for Service
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Compliance Checklist

General
Review of all policies and procedures
Development of a code of conduct
Implementation of a training program
Maintenance of records
Data Protection
Assessment of data privacy and security
Identification of data sources
Documentation of data access procedures
Implementation of data security measures
Monitoring of data usage
Consumer Protection
Development of consumer protection policies
Development of procedures for customer complaints
Implementation of consumer protection measures
Documentation of customer interactions
Monitoring of customer feedback
Ethical Considerations
Review of ethics policies
Documentation of ethical standards
Implementation of ethical guidelines
Monitoring of ethical practices
Enforcement of ethical standards
Conflict of Interest
Assessment of potential conflicts of interest
Identification of areas of potential conflicts
Documentation of conflicts of interest policies
Implementation of conflict of interest procedures
Monitoring of conflict of interest management
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Conflict of Interest Checklist

Conflict of Interest Checklist
Ensure that all clients are informed of potential conflicts of interest.
Identify potential conflicts of interest for clients and the firm.
Make sure all conflicts are fully disclosed and explained to the client.
Ensure that all conflicts are addressed in a timely manner.
Develop a procedure for how conflicts of interest will be addressed.
Make sure the firm's procedures and policies comply with applicable legal and ethical standards.
Document all potential conflicts of interest.
Monitor any changes in the firm's clients or in the legal matters they are representing to identify any potential conflicts of interest.
Train all staff on the firm's conflict of interest policies and procedures.
Ensure that all staff members understand the firm's conflict of interest policies and procedures.
Take appropriate steps to prevent any conflicts of interest from arising.
In the event of a conflict of interest, take appropriate measures to resolve the conflict in a timely manner.
Document all decisions and actions related to conflicts of interest.
Monitor the firm's compliance with its conflict of interest policies and procedures.
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Document Management Checklist

Baseline Documents
Initial Client Intake Forms
Conflict of Interest Forms
Fee Agreement
Retainer Agreement
Informed Consent Agreement
Non-Disclosure Agreement
Archiving Documents
Establish a System for Archiving Documents
Create an Index of Document Categories
Create Folders for Each Document Category
Label Each Folder With a Unique Identifier
Set up Versioning for Documents
Set Up a Retention Policy
Accessing Documents
Develop a System for Accessing Documents
Set Up Secure Authentication and Authorization
Establish a System for Tracking Access
Generate Reports on Access
Set Up Automated Reminders for Document Access
Document Storage
Select a System for Storing Documents
Set Up a Secure Storage System
Set Up a Backup System
Establish an Auditing System
Security
Establish a System for Encrypting Documents
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Establish a System for Monitoring Access to Documents
Implement a System for Detecting Unauthorized Access
Establish a System for Reporting Security Breaches
Document Distribution
Set Up a System for Distributing Documents
Establish a Process for Reviewing and Approving Documents
Implement a System for Tracking Document Distribution
Establish a System for Notifying Recipients When Documents Change
Establish a System for Tracking Document Signatures
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Employee Offboarding Checklist

Legal
Gather and return all firm-owned documents and property
Document completion of all firm-related tasks
Collect and return keys, access cards, etc.
Submit final billable hours, if applicable
Finalize any legal proceedings
Human Resources
Complete all exit paperwork
Return company-issued equipment
Schedule final payroll and benefits processing
Make sure all payroll and benefits are up to date
Collect and return any company-issued uniforms
Provide details on how to access records, contact information, etc.
IT
Disconnect work computer and any related hardware
Remove access to all IT systems, networks, email, etc.
Collect and return any company-issued electronics
Facilities
Collect and return all company-issued supplies
Return any and all company-owned technology
Return any company-owned office furniture
Return any company-owned office keys
Finance
Submit final expense and reimbursement forms
Collect and return any company-issued credit cards
Collect and return any company-owned materials
Terminate any outstanding contracts
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Employee Onboarding Checklist

Employee Onboarding Checklist
Create new employee's personnel file
Issue welcome letter and employment offer
Ensure employee completes necessary paperwork
Collect any required documents such as Social Security card, driver's license, and passport
Assign a workspace
Set up IT access and accounts
Schedule orientation and training
Introduce new employee to team and colleagues
Update employee handbook
Collect any necessary COBRA requirements
Ensure new hire is enrolled in benefit plans
Update pay and tax information
Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations
Schedule follow-up meetings with HR and supervisor
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Employee Performance Evaluation Checklist

Employee Performance Evaluation Checklist
Attendance
Productivity
Quality of Work
Communication
Teamwork
Leadership
Problem-Solving
Time Management
Work Ethic
Adaptability
Initiative
Creativity
Organization
Client Relations
Reliability
Judgement
Knowledge
Dependability
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File Closure Checklist

Documentation
Collect all documents related to the case
Organize documents for storage
Update/Review digital case file
Closing Conference
Notify all parties of the file closure
Gather final paperwork from all parties
Finalize any outstanding payments
Financial
Close all financial accounts associated with the case
Review and reconcile all expenses
Review and reconcile all invoices
Legal
File all necessary paperwork with the court
Collect all final orders/judgments
Review and close all dockets/calendars
Archiving
Create an archived file of all documents
Backup all digital files in a secure location
Label and store all physical documents in an appropriate location
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Professional Conduct Checklist

Professional Behavior
Treat colleagues and clients with respect
Follow the laws and regulations of the legal profession
Exercise good judgment and ethical decision-making
Maintain the highest standards of professional conduct
Avoid any behavior that compromises the integrity of the firm
Confidentiality
Maintain client confidentiality at all times
Only disclose information as required by law
Do not use confidential client information for personal gain
Secure all documents and information that contain confidential information
Client Relations
Respect client goals and objectives
Provide accurate and timely advice to clients
Remain up to date on the latest developments in the field
Respond promptly to client inquiries
Keep clients informed of the progress of their matters
Professional Responsibility
Be familiar with the applicable rules of professional conduct
Meet all deadlines for filing documents and other legal requirements
Maintain accurate records of all client matters
Prepare and submit accurate bills for services rendered
Submit accurate and timely reports to the firm
Conflict of Interest
Avoid any conflict of interest between the firm and its clients
Disclose any potential conflict of interest to the firm and the client
Do not engage in any activity that could be perceived as a conflict of interest
Refrain from representing clients that have conflicting interests
Refrain from using confidential client information for the benefit of another client
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Professional Responsibility Checklist

Ethical Issues
Adhere to applicable rules of professional conduct
Review and update policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable ethical requirements
Maintain client confidentiality
Avoid conflicts of interest
Enforce anti-discrimination policies
Competence and Professionalism
Adopt appropriate technology to maintain records
Take steps to reduce the risk of malpractice
Maintain continuing legal education
Ensure that staff are properly trained and supervised
Client Relations
Provide clients with timely and accurate communication
Provide clients with clear billing information
Adhere to fee agreements
Maintain client trust accounts
Marketing and Advertising
Ensure advertising and marketing materials comply with applicable rules
Avoid false or misleading statements
Maintain accurate records of advertising and marketing activities
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Risk Management Checklist

Legal Risks
Assess potential legal liabilities
Review and update insurance policies
Maintain records of contracts
Comply with relevant laws
Conduct regular staff training
Financial Risks
Prepare financial plans
Monitor cash flow
Develop and implement cost-control strategies
Ensure adequate capital reserves
Review income and expenses
Operational Risks
Conduct risk assessments
Develop and implement procedures for identifying and managing risks
Establish internal controls
Review staff qualifications
Monitor compliance with applicable regulations
Reputational Risks
Establish a customer feedback system
Monitor customer service levels
Implement a process for responding to customer complaints
Develop a crisis management plan
Monitor online reviews and social media
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The importance of checklists in Law Firm

Better Use of Time

Checklists are an important tool for law firms as they help to ensure that tasks are completed thoroughly and efficiently. This is especially true when it comes to complex and time-consuming tasks. By creating a checklist, law firms can streamline their processes and ensure that they are not missing any important steps. Checklists can also help law firms save time and money by helping them prioritize tasks and avoid costly mistakes. For instance, if a law firm is preparing for a trial, they can create a checklist that includes all of the necessary steps, such as preparing witness statements, gathering evidence, and filing documents. By following the checklist, the law firm can be confident that they have not missed any important steps in the process.

Reduce Risk of Mistakes

Checklists are also important for law firms because they can help to reduce the risk of mistakes. Law firms must be sure that they are following all of the necessary steps and regulations when handling cases. With a checklist, law firms can ensure that all of the necessary steps and regulations are being followed. For example, a law firm may create a checklist for preparing for a trial that includes steps such as filing documents, researching the applicable laws and regulations, and gathering evidence. By following the checklist, the law firm can be confident that all of the necessary steps have been taken.

Improve Communication

Checklists are also important for law firms because they can help to improve communication between lawyers and other staff members. By creating a checklist, lawyers can easily assign tasks to other staff members and ensure that all of the necessary steps are being taken. This can help to reduce confusion and ensure that all of the necessary steps are being taken. Additionally, checklists can help to avoid miscommunication between lawyers and staff, as everyone will be aware of the tasks that need to be completed.

Provide Structure

Checklists are also important for law firms as they provide structure to their processes. By creating a checklist, law firms can ensure that tasks are being completed in the correct order and that all of the necessary steps are being taken. This can help to make sure that tasks are completed efficiently and that important steps are not missed. Additionally, checklists can help to reduce the amount of time that is spent on tasks, as all of the necessary steps will be laid out in advance.

Examples of Checklists

Law firms can create checklists for a variety of tasks, such as preparing for a trial, filing documents, researching the applicable laws and regulations, and gathering evidence. Additionally, law firms may create checklists for tasks such as creating contracts, preparing financial statements, and researching case law. Below are some examples of checklists that law firms may create:

  • Preparing for a trial:
    • Gather evidence
    • Prepare witness statements
    • File documents
    • Research applicable laws and regulations
  • Creating contracts:
    • Determine which contracts need to be created
    • Identify the parties involved
    • Draft the contract
    • Review and revise the contract
  • Preparing financial statements:
    • Gather financial information
    • Organize the financial information
    • Prepare the financial statements
    • Review and revise the financial statements
  • Researching case law:
    • Identify the relevant case law
    • Gather information on the relevant case law
    • Analyze the relevant case law
    • Synthesize the relevant case law

These are just a few examples of checklists that law firms can create. Law firms can create checklists for any task that they need to complete, and they can tailor the checklists to fit the specific needs of their firm.

Conclusion

Checklists are a valuable tool for law firms as they can help to ensure that tasks are completed thoroughly and efficiently. Checklists can help law firms save time and money by helping them prioritize tasks and avoid costly mistakes. Additionally, checklists can help to improve communication between lawyers and other staff members, and they can provide structure to law firms’ processes. Law firms can create checklists for a variety of tasks, such as preparing for a trial, creating contracts, preparing financial statements, and researching case law. By creating and following checklists, law firms can be confident that they are completing all of the necessary steps and are not missing any important steps in the process.

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