Matter Relationships
Understanding Matter Relationships
In Lawmatics, every matter has a primary contact, but additional contacts can be linked using relationships.
Setting Up Relationship Types
To create relationship types:
- Navigate to Settings from the left-side navigation bar.
- Select Matter Settings.
- Type the relationship title in the box.
- Select if the relationship is repeatable or not.
- Click Add Type.
Repeatable vs. Non-Repeatable Relationships
- Non-Repeatable: A matter can only have one contact in this role (e.g., Spouse).
- Repeatable: A matter can have multiple contacts in this role (e.g., Child).
Adding Relationships to a Matter
Once relationships are added, they appear on the left sidebar of the matter profile under the Matter at Stage section.
Steps to Add a Relationship:
- Click Add Relationship.
- Select the relationship type.
- Search and select the contact from your CRM.
Collecting Relationship Information via Forms
Instead of manually adding relationships, you can collect relationship information using custom forms:
- Use relationship blocks in intake forms to gather related contact details.
- Automatically map this data into the Matter Relationships section.
Note: Related contacts are stored as separate contacts in your CRM, independent of the primary contact.
Viewing Relationships on a Contact's Profile
A contact profile displays:
- Matters where they are the primary contact (shown in blue).
- Matters where they are listed as a relationship.
Swapping the Primary Contact on a Matter
If multiple contacts are associated with a matter, you may wish to switch the primary contact:
- Click the three dots under the matter name.
- Select Swap Contact or Company.
- Choose the new primary contact.
Once you select a different contact or, the name on the matter (Mickey Mouse in the example above) will change to the newly selected contact.
FAQs
Can I send an email to related contacts?
Yes! Since related contacts exist as individual CRM contacts, they can:
- Be included in email audience lists.
- Receive emails via automations.
- Manually receive emails, forms, or documents.
Why use a relationship instead of a custom field like "Spouse Name"?
Using relationships allows you to:
- Email related contacts directly.
- Add them as signers on documents or agreements.
- Include them in automated communications.