forms checklists and procedures for the family lawyer

Comprehensive Family Law Client Intake and Case Management Protocol

Instructions for Use

• Complete all sections in collaboration with the client during the initial intake consultation to ensure accurate data capture.
• Utilize the numbered clauses as a standard operating procedure (SOP) to maintain consistency in case file organization and discovery management.
• Review and update the "Case Status and Discovery" section at the conclusion of every client meeting to track ongoing document production requirements.

Parties & Definitions

This document serves as the official record for the legal matter involving:

Petitioner: [Full Legal Name] Respondent: [Full Legal Name] Case Number: [Case/Docket Number] Jurisdiction/Court: [Name of Court] Counsel of Record: [Law Firm Name]

Operative Clauses and Procedures

1. Initial Disclosure Requirements: The client shall provide the following documents within [Number] business days:

   • Last 3 years of individual and corporate tax returns.
   • Current pay stubs and proof of all income sources.
   • Comprehensive list of all real and personal property assets.
   • Statements for all financial accounts, including retirement and brokerage.

2. Communication Protocol: All formal communication regarding the case shall be transmitted via [Secure Portal/Email Address]. The client agrees to refrain from discussing case details on social media platforms or with non-privileged third parties.

3. Discovery Management: Counsel will initiate formal discovery, including Interrogatories, Requests for Production, and Requests for Admissions, by [Date]. The client must review all discovery responses for accuracy and sign under penalty of perjury.

4. Mediation and Settlement: The parties agree to participate in [Number] sessions of mandatory mediation prior to proceeding to trial. Any settlement reached must be memorialized in a written Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) signed by both parties and their respective counsel.

5. Fee Structure and Billing: The client agrees to maintain a minimum retainer balance of [Currency Amount]. Invoices will be issued [Monthly/Bi-weekly] and are payable within [Number] days of receipt.

6. Confidentiality and Privilege: All information shared between the client and counsel is protected by attorney-client privilege. The client shall not waive this privilege by disclosing case strategy to unauthorized individuals.

Signature & Acknowledgment

By signing below, the parties acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to the procedures outlined in this document.

Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Full Legal Name] Title: [Petitioner/Respondent] Date: [__________]

Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Attorney Name] Title: [Counsel of Record] Date: [__________]

Legal Disclaimer: This document is a general framework intended for informational purposes only. Family law statutes, procedural rules, and filing requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction. Consult with qualified, locally licensed counsel to ensure full compliance with state and local laws before using this document in active litigation.