How to Prepare Documents Before Starting a Legal Process

Organised and traceable documents make the facts easier to understand when preparing a legal application. Keeping records created on different dates together also makes gaps and duplication visible.

An original, a copy and an electronic record may have different significance. Preserve each document without alteration and note its source and the date it was obtained. Personal data and confidentiality obligations should also be considered when records are shared.

General checklist

• List events chronologically using short, factual statements.
• Keep contracts, invoices, receipts, banking records and notices together.
• Preserve dates and sender and recipient details in email and message records.
• Note where each document came from and where its original is kept.
• List separately any missing records and the person or institution that may hold them.
• Keep a copy of delivered documents and record the delivery date.

This preparation helps connect each document with the relevant fact, but legal assessment depends on the circumstances of the matter.

This content is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.