Free Litigation Preparation Checklist Template
Litigation Preparation Checklist
Prepared by: [YOUR NAME]
Company: [YOUR COMPANY NAME]
Date: [DATE]
Case Assessment and Strategy
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Review the details of the case thoroughly |
|
Identify key legal issues and claims. |
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Research applicable laws and precedents |
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Develop a case strategy and objectives. |
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Prepare a timeline of events relevant to the case. |
|
Document Collection and Organization
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Gather all relevant contracts, agreements, and correspondence |
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Collect emails, letters, and other communications. |
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Organize financial records and transaction documents. |
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Obtain any policies or procedures relevant to the case. |
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Review and preserve electronic evidence (e.g., emails, files) |
|
Witness Preparation
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Identify key witnesses for the case |
|
Schedule and conduct witness interviews |
|
Prepare witness statements or affidavits. |
|
Coach witnesses for depositions and courtroom testimony |
|
Review and address any inconsistencies in witness accounts. |
|
Legal Filings and Pleadings
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Draft and file the initial complaint or answer |
|
Respond to any counterclaims or motions. |
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File necessary motions (e.g., motions to dismiss, summary judgment) |
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Prepare interrogatories and requests for the production of documents. |
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Ensure all filings comply with court rules and deadlines. |
|
Discovery Process
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Exchange discovery requests with opposing parties |
|
Review and respond to discovery requests. |
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Organize depositions for key witnesses. |
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Retain and consult with expert witnesses if necessary. |
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Analyze and categorize discovery materials. |
|
Trial Preparation
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Create an outline of the trial strategy |
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Develop opening and closing statements. |
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Prepare exhibits and ensure proper labeling. |
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Draft and file pre-trial motions |
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Prepare cross-examinations and witness questions. |
|
Courtroom Logistics
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Confirm the trial date and location |
|
Arrange for the appearance of all witnesses. |
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Ensure necessary equipment (e.g., projectors, document viewers) is available. |
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Familiarize with courtroom layout and procedures. |
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Prepare a trial binder with all essential documents. |
|
Post-Trial Tasks
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
File any necessary post-trial motions |
|
Collect and review the final judgment. |
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Assess the potential for appeal. |
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Arrange for the enforcement of the judgment if favorable. |
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Conduct a post-mortem analysis of the litigation process. |
|
Communication and Coordination
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Maintain regular communication with the client |
|
Update all stakeholders on the progress of the case. |
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Coordinate with co-counsel or additional legal teams as needed. |
|
Address any concerns or questions from the client. |
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Ensure compliance with ethical and professional standards. |
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