Turn a pile of case papers into a clear timeline

Step by step

1. Check what you are allowed to share

   Only use an AI tool your firm has approved for client material. If you must use a public one, remove names, addresses and reference numbers first and replace them with labels like [Client] and [Landlord].

2. Gather the documents in date order

   Collect the key letters, emails and statements for the matter. Copy the text into one document, or attach the files if your approved tool allows it.

3. Ask for a sourced chronology

   Paste this prompt with the material.

   Prompt to copyYou are helping a paralegal organise a case file. From the documents below, build a chronology as a table with columns: Date, Event (one plain sentence), Who was involved, Source document and page or paragraph. Use only what the documents say. If a date is unclear, write 'Unclear' and quote the wording. After the table, list: 1) gaps where nothing is recorded, 2) any facts that conflict between documents, 3) questions to ask the client. Do not give legal opinions. Documents: [paste or attach]

4. Check every line against the source

   Open each source the table points to and confirm the date and wording. AI can misread or invent details, so treat the table as a draft until you have checked it.

5. Hand it to your supervising lawyer

   Save the checked chronology in the matter folder and send it to the lawyer for review before anyone relies on it.

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