Aside from Excel imports or XML imports, matter can be created manually, as explained below.
- Begin by selecting the Matters module.
- Click the Add button.
- Select the Existing client option from the dropdown options. Or, choose the New client option if the matter is for a New client. You will also need to enter a Code (short name) that can represent that client, and choose whether or not it's for a Solo Inventor.
- Select whether the matter is Part of a new matter family, or Connected to an existing matter. If you select Connected to, begin typing in the associated box to pull up available options.
- Select the Type of matter.
- Select the Country.
- Enter or update the Attorney Ref.
- Click OK.
- In the resulting Matter Details page you must, at a minimum, provide values for Title (not required for Trademarks). Other required fields will default and additional fields can be added at later times.
- Click the Save button.
By default, the matter's Status will be "Unfiled." The status only changes when certain dates are added to the matter. For example, a matter's status can't change to pending until a filing date is added. A matter's status won't change to published until a publication date is added.