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Send clients clear updates on where their case stands
Short, friendly progress emails that explain the latest step and what happens next in plain words, checked by the lawyer before sending.
When to use it
After each step in a matter, or every fortnight
Step by step
Note what has happened
Jot down three or four bullet points: what happened, what it means for timing, what you need from the client and the next date. Use labels instead of names if your AI tool is not firm-approved.
Ask for a plain-English update
Paste your bullets with this prompt.
Prompt to copyWrite a short client update email from a law firm. Audience: [client type, e.g. a private individual with no legal background]. Tone: warm, calm, clear. Structure: 1) one-line summary of where things are, 2) what happened since the last update, 3) what happens next and roughly when, 4) anything we need from them, with a date, 5) who to contact with questions. Under 200 words. Explain any legal terms in brackets. Do not give legal advice or predict the outcome. Notes: [paste bullets]Save it as a reusable template
Once you like the shape, save it as an Outlook template or a Gmail template so each update starts from the same clear structure.
Have the lawyer approve it
Send the draft to the responsible lawyer to check before it goes to the client, especially anything about timing, costs or prospects. If the AI mentions any case or law, check it against the original source, as AI can invent case law.
What you get
Subject: Your case: update and next steps In short: the other side has replied and we are reviewing it. What's next: we'll send you our thoughts by 14 March. What we need: a copy of your rent statements by 10 March. Questions? Call [Name] on [number].
Tips
- Keep a short 'last update sent' note on the matter so updates stay regular.
- Never let AI wording about prospects or outcomes reach a client without a qualified lawyer's check.