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.
What is the difference between a contact and matter profile?
Contact Profile: Shows contact-related information (e.g., phone, email, birthdate).
Matter Profile: Displays case-related information and activities.