Using Checklists

Checklists can help you to organize, manage, and prioritize. Use checklists to avoid relying solely on your memory. Checklists can help you check status, plot deadlines, and share responsibility with lawyers and support staff.  Digital checklists facilitate the process by enabling members of the firm to collaborate and stay up to date. 

Purpose - Checklists compensate for cognitive limits on human memory and attention span. They help assure that all things are considered and completed.

 

Using - Checklists usually contain a concise list of important items, names, or tasks. They can be used for comparison, verification, and checking for completion. They apply to all areas of law practice including contracts, corporate, family, and litigation matters. Following are some practical applications for using checklists:

  • Name List – track names for litigation, marketing, networking purposes
  • Responsibility List - delegate tasks to lawyers and support staff
  • To Do List – enumerate tasks needed to complete a project
  • Topical List – identify matters to cover in contracts and other legal documents

Creating. Checklists can be handwritten on paper or by using a computer, smartphone, or other digital devices. Digital checklists can be created with word processing, spreadsheet, or calendaring programs. They can also be created with popular apps like Apple Reminders, Evernote, Google Keep, Microsoft To-Do, and Wunderlist

Columns. Two columns are essential for every checklist – one for checkmarks and another for descriptions.  Additional columns can be used to identify persons responsible for handling and date for completion. Put the checkoff column first so each item can be easily marked with a √ or x when completed.  Use concise descriptions for each item so they can fit onto one line.

Saving. Whether created digitally or on paper, checklists can be saved in separate matter folders or in one general folder.  Consider printing a copy of every checklist and saving them together in a 3-ring binder for quick access.  





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