We see problems when lawyers attempt to keep their files in both hard copy and digital form. It can be confusing and can result in the loss of information or records. Our guidance will help you navigate the process for going fully digital.

You can also refer to the LIV’s File ownership, retention and destruction guidelines.

For information about record keeping for trust accounts see here.

You can do it - files and documents can be kept in digital form only

Fully digital files are not only permissible, they have a lot of advantages. You can create a full record that is logically ordered and accessible, where the metadata gives a clear track record of the creation and provenance of documents.

We recommend getting your client’s consent to keep files and client documents in digital form only. You can do this in your costs agreement either from the start or by varying an existing agreement. An example of an appropriate clause to include in this type of agreement is available in the LIV Guidelines.