Document Categories Support File Organization

In TrialWorks Tips by trialworks

Document categories are a powerful tool that supports file uniformity, naming convention consistencies and search capabilities in TrialWorks. By using Document Categories, a user can simply filter and sort to drill-down to a select group of documents to find a specific document.

Document categories are typically established by the Firm Administrator under Settings > Categories:

Document Categories - Settings

Let’s see how this works: First, generate a new document on the Pleadings Tab. Notice the dropdown next to the Category field. Select the category that best describes the type of document you are generating.

Document Categories - Pleadings

Document Categories are available on the following Tabs: Ancillary (Miscellaneous); Appeals; Correspondence; Email; Legal (Discovery); Memo; Motions (Hearings); Notes; Pleadings; Subpoena; and Witness Interview (Expert.)

Below are some best practice examples:

Document Categories - Notes Tab

Document Categories - Correspondence

Additionally, using document categories on the Notes Tab allows you to generate a variety of useful reports. For example:

Document Categories - Notes dropdown list

Document Categories - Notes dropdown report

Correct Use of Categories Correct usage of document categories is best displayed by a Tab with no missing fields, as shown below:

Document Categories - correct

Incorrect Use of Categories Incorrect usage of document categories is best displayed by missing fields, as shown below:Document Categories - Incorrect

TIP:

  • When creating the types of document categories for each Tab in Settings > Categories, keep in mind that the less is best! Try to avoid the need for the user to have to scroll down to find the right category.

If you’re interested in learning more about using Document Categories within TrialWorks, please contact Training at 800-377-5844 option #1.

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