Matter Types Directory

Smokeball has over hundreds of matter types that are specific by area of law and jurisdiction. It is important to select the right matter to ensure you have access to all appropriate fields related to that area of law.

This article serves as your guide of which matter types to be used along with the states they are available are in.

If you are unsure which matter type to use, reach out to your Account Manager for Guidance. Note: "General" matter types may be missing many important case details and fields that you may be looking for.

Appeals

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Civil Appeal

All states

Used when the attorney represents the Appellant, Appellee, or Amicus Curiae (rare) in a civil appeal in state court or federal court.

Criminal Appeal

All states

Used when the attorney represents the Appellant, Appellee, or Amicus Curiae (rare) in a criminal appeal in state court or federal court.

Business

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Asset Transaction

 All states

The Asset Transaction Matter Type can be used when purchasing or selling an asset.

Business Financing 

All states

N/A

Business General

All states

Used when the attorney represents a client in connection with a simple business matter that does not fit well into the other matter types.

Cannabis Law

CA, MT, OK

This matter type should be used when representing a medical or recreational cannabis company, whether it be a dispensary, grow operation, or processor.

Commercial Contract

All states

The Commercial Contract Matter Type is for use when drafting or negotiating a commercial contract, deed or agreement.

Commercial Dispute

All states

The Commercial Dispute Matter Type is for use when acting for the Plaintiff or Defendant in a commercial dispute. Litigation, so it has Case Details.

Contract Dispute

All states

Used for breach of contract or contract dispute cases.

Corporation

All states

The Corporation Matter Type is for use when acting for a client in a matter pertaining to a Corporation. It can relate to any matter for the corporation, including formation, statutory reporting and recording, or cessation.

Economic Development

IL

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a developer or municipality in the drafting of an economic development plan, or a redevelopment plan. This is very niche.

Franchise

All states

Used when the attorney represents either the Franchisor or Franchisee in connection with a new contract or an existing contract.

Interest Transaction – Corporation

All states

Used when representing the buyer or seller in the purchase or transfer of interest in a corporation.

Interest Transaction – LLC

All states

Used when representing the buyer or seller in the purchase or transfer of interest in an LLC.

Limited Liability Company

All states

The Limited Liability Company Matter Type is for use when acting for a client in a matter pertaining to a Limited Liability Company. It can relate to any matter for the limited liability company, including formation, statutory reporting and recording, or cessation.

Not-for-Profit

All states

The Not-for-Profit Matter Type is for use when acting for a client in a matter pertaining to a Not-for-Profit. It can relate to any matter for the organization, including formation, statutory reporting and recording, or cessation.

Partnership

All states

N/A

Purchase of a Business or Purchase of Business

All states

The Purchase of Business Matter Type can be used when acting for the Buyer in a purchase of business.

Sale of a Business

All states

The Sale of Business Matter Type can be used when acting for the Seller in a sale of business.

Securities

All states

This Securities matter type is for matters in relation to publicly traded businesses and their securities.

Series Limited Liability Company

All states

The Series Limited Liability Company Matter Type is for use when acting for a client in a matter pertaining to a Series Limited Liability Company.

Surety

 TX

N/A

Civil

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Civil Asset Forfeiture

All states

Used when the attorney represents the Plaintiff, Defendant, or a Third Party when assets are taken by the prosecution in relation to a criminal matter.  The state then can file suit to obtain an asset forfeiture of said property.

Civil Dispute

All states

Used for all general civil litigation cases that do not fit into other, more specific matter types. Attorney can represent Plaintiff, Defendant, or Third Party Defendant.

Civil Protection Order

All states

We have two GEN versions of this matter type. One is set up with Plaintiff and Defendant as the core parties, while the other is set up with Petitioner and Respondent as the core parties. This matter type is used when representing a Plaintiff or Defendant regarding the harassment or stalking of the Plaintiff and the alleged stalker is NOT related to the Plaintiff. I.e. crazy neighbor.  If it's someone related to the person seeking protection, use Order of Protection in Family.

Civil Rights

All states

Used when the attorney represents the Plaintiff or Defendant in a claim of civil rights violations at the state or federal level.

Fiduciary Litigation

All states

N/A

Lemon Law

All states

Used when there Is a dispute over the quality of a used or pre-owned vehicle a buyer purchased

Petition for Writ of Mandamus

WI

Used for cases involving a writ of mandamus. 

Petition to Expunge or Seal Criminal Record

OK

Used when acting for a client seeking to have a criminal record sealed or expunged

Property Damage

All states except CA and FL. 

Used when the attorney represents the Plaintiff or Defendant in connection with a property damage claim that is NOT related to personal injury or a motor vehicle accident. For example, a homeowner filing an insurance claim for hail damage.

Property Damage Claim

CA, FL

Used for just property damage that are not motor vehicle or personal injury claim related.

Qui Tam

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Relator in a qui tam (whistleblower) claim against a defendant, which arealmost always in Federal court. 

Vulnerable Adult Protection Order

CA, WA

This Vulnerable Adult Protection Order (Civil) matter type is for use when acting for a Petitioner or Respondent in a civil matter where a vulnerable adult needs protection and the matter type for civil protection order does not fit the particulars of the matter.

Witness - Civil

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a witness in connection with a civil case.  It can also be used if the attorney is called to act as a witness in a civil case (more rare).

Consumer Protection

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Consumer Debt Collection Violation

All states

For use with violations of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

Consumer Protection - All

All states

A combination of all 3 above if the Defendant is very bad and has violated more than one of the above acts.

Credit Reporting Dispute

All states

For use with violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Telephone Consumer Protection Breach

All states

For use with violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.

Criminal

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Application for Parole or Pardon

All states except NY

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a person seeking a parole or pardon from a state board.

Certificate of Relief from Disabilities or Good Conduct

NY

NY version of Application for Parole or Pardon.  This matter is used when the client represents an Applicant who is applying for a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities from the Court or the NY Board of Parole, or for a Certificate of Good Conduct from the NY Board of Parole.

Domestic Violence

All states

The Domestic Violence matter type is used when acting for someone charged with a felony or misdemeanor domestic violence offense. Note that this is for the criminal proceeding only.

Driver's License Reinstatement

All states

Matter type for when an attorney represents a Petitioner in the Petitioner’s request to have his or her driver’s license reinstated by the Administrative Agency at the administrative hearing level.

DUI

AK, AL, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WV, WY

The DUI (Driving Under the Influence) Matter Type is for use when acting for someone charged with DUI.

DWI

AR, CO, IA, IN, MN, MO, NJ, NY, TX, WI

NY version of DUI. The DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Matter Type is for use when acting for someone charged with DWI in NY.

Early Probation Termination

NY

This matter type is used when the attorney represents the Defendant in connection with filing a petition to terminate probation early.

Felony

All states

The Felony matter type is for use when acting for someone charged with a felony offense or multiple felony offenses.

Guardian ad Litem - Juvenile Delinquency

All states

Matter type for when an attorney is appointed to be the Guardian ad Litem in a Juvenile Delinquency case.

Habeas Corpus

All states

Matter type used when a person in custody petitions the federal court that their custody is in violation of the Constitution, laws, or treaties of the United States.

Investigation

All states 

For use when client is a possible defendant in a criminal matter, where prosecutor has yet to file formal charges and you do not know if it's a felony, misdemeanor, etc.

Juvenile Delinquency

All states

Matter type for when an attorney represents a Juvenile in a Juvenile Delinquency case.

Misdemeanor

All states 

The Misdemeanor matter type is for use when acting for someone charged with a misdemeanor offense or multiple misdemeanor offenses.

Ordinance Violation

All states

For use on matters involving criminal or quasi-criminal matters that are lesser offenses than misdemeanors, and oftentimes a municipality is the charging agency.

Parole Violation

NY

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Defendant in connection with a Parole Violation proceeding.

Petition to Expunge or Seal Criminal Record

All states except OK

The Petition to Expunge or Seal Criminal Record Matter Type is for use when acting for a client seeking to have a criminal record sealed or expunged. This occurs after a certain amount of time has elapsed since conviction, or if the person was a juvenile when convicted.

Petition to Reinstate Right to Possess Firearms

WA

Matter type to use when acting for a client seeking to have right to possess firearms reinstated. 

Post-Conviction

CA, CO, IL, TX, VA

N/A

Probation Violation

All states

The Probation Violation Matter Type is for use when acting for someone charged in violation of their probation.

Prosecution

All states

The Prosecution Matter Type is for use when acting on behalf of the Prosecution. This can occur in rural areas where a local attorney is appointed to be a Prosecutor.

Traffic Violation

All states 

The Traffic Violation Matter Type is for use when acting for someone charged with a traffic violation.

Witness - Criminal

All states 

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a witness in connection with a criminal case.

Debt and Bankruptcy

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Adversary Complaint

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents either the Plaintiff or Defendant in an Adversary Complaint proceeding. An adversary complaint is a separate lawsuit filed in the US Bankruptcy Court seeking to deny the debtor the bankruptcy discharge and possibly to enter a judgment against the debtor. 

Bankruptcy

All states

The Bankruptcy Matter Type is for use for voluntary bankruptcy proceedings, when acting for the Debtor or Creditor/s. It should not be used for Adversary Proceedings.  

Debt Collection

All states 

The Debt Collection Matter Type is for use in debt collection proceedings, when acting for either the Plaintiff or Defendant. Pre-judgment. Small Claims cases should use this.

Post-Judgment Collection

All states 

The Post Judgment Collection Matter Type is for use in debt collection proceedings once a judgment has already been obtained, when acting for either the Plaintiff or Defendant.

Education

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Compliance and Investigation

All states

This matter is intended for when you’rerepresenting or consulting with an educational institution regarding compliance and/or handling Title IX and/or Clery Act complaints, or creating policies and procedures.

Education Litigation

All states

This matter is used when the attorney represents the Plaintiff or Defendant in connection with an Education litigation matter, but which is not Special Education.

Special Education

All states

This matter type is used when an attorney represents a parent, a school, or a school district in connection with the creation or review of an education plan for a child who may have special needs. This process is governed by several Federal laws.

Elder Law

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Agency Administration

IL

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a person who has power of attorney over someone or is a trustee in the course of that person's duties protecting the interests of the principal.

Asset Protection

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a client who is seeking to minimize their and their heirs' tax liability upon death. These people will set up trusts that are better from a financial perspective than probating the estate.

Medicaid Trust

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney is helping a client set up a Medicaid Trust.  A Medicaid Trust is an irrevocable trust that the grantor establishes to limit his/her income to qualify for Medicaid assistance for nursing home care and pass on the grantor's assets to family members. It is a method for a rich person to take advantage of the government's Medicaid system and save their money for the survivors. It is something that must be established60 months before the Medicaid application as well.

VA Trust

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney is helping a client set up a Veterans' Affairs (VA) Trust. Irrevocable VA Trusts are often used by attorneys to reduce a veteran's assets to a financial level acceptable by the Department of Veterans Affairs, in order to be eligible to receive the Aid & Attendance benefit. This strategy, while acceptable to the VA, is non-compliant for Medicaid purposes.

Employment

Mater Type Name

Location

Description

Employment Claim

All states

Matter type for employment claims involving state agencies regarding discrimination, as well as federal agencies such as EEOC, NLRB, and OSHA.

Employment General

All states

Matter type for employment issues that are not within the discrimination EEOC, NLRB, or OSHA matter types.

Unemployment Claim Dispute

IL, MI, NY, TX, VA, WV

This matter type is used when the attorney represents either the Claimant or Employer in an unemployment claim dispute at the UIA/AHS/CAC level and/or the circuit court.

Wage and Hour Claim

All states

This is a matter type for a dispute between an employer and employee on whether the employer violated state and federal laws (Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)) on paying wages, overtime, breaks, and other wage related items.

ERISA

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

ERISA - General

All states

For use when representing a client regarding an ERISA matter not involving litigation, such as advising someone regarding ERISA law. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) is a federal law that sets minimum standards for most voluntarily established pension and health plans in private industry to provide protection for individuals in these plans.

ERISA – Litigation

All states

Used when an attorney represents an individual or insurance company in litigation regarding insurance plans governed by ERISA.

ERISA Insurance Litigation

All states

This matter type is used when an attorney represents an individual or an insurance company in litigation regarding insurance plans governed by ERISA.

Estate Planning

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Estate Planning

All states

The Estate Planning Matter Type is for use when creating an estate planning package, such as a Trust and Pour-over Will (or just a Will), along with a Power of Attorney for property and health, Advance Directive.

Power of Attorney

All states

The Power of Attorney Matter Type is for use when setting up a Power of Attorney for financial or health matters.

Trust

All states 

The Trust Matter Type is for use when creating a new Trust for a client(s).

Will

All states 

The Will Matter Type is for use when creating a Will for a client(s). In addition, you can create a Power of Attorney for financial and health matters from this Matter Type.

Family

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Adoption

All states

Adoption where parental rights are legally transferred from the birth parent(s) to the adopting parent(s). 

Adoption - Related

All states

This matter type is used when an attorney represents a biological parent and his or her new spouse in a case for the new spouse to adopt the biological parent’s child.

Arbitration

All states

N/A

ARIF/OCR Review

TX

N/A

Child Representation

All states 

This matter is used when the attorney is appointed to act as the Child Representative or the Attorney for the Child. Different from Guardian ad Litem.

Custody, Support & Visitation

All states 

 The Custody, Support & Visitation matter type is for use when acting for the Petitioner or Respondent in a matter relating to custody, visitation or support of a child or children where there is no marriage of civil union.

DCF Appeal

MA

N/A

DCFS Appeal

IL, UT

The DCFS Appeal matter type is used when the attorney represents a person who wants the administrative agency to review a DCFS finding.

DHS Appeal

IA

The DHS Appeal matter type is used when the attorney represents a person who wants the administrative agency to review a DHS finding.

Family - Third Party

All states except AL, NH, NV

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a third party in connection with a family law proceeding. This is rare, created so we didn't have to make "third party" a representation option in all matters, and third party may or may not be an actual "party" to the case. Examples: grandparent, employer who was subpoenaed.

Family General

All states

Should only be used for Clio Syncs and nothing else. Has very limited contact cards.

Guardian ad Litem – Adoption

All states 

This matter type is used when the user is appointed by the court to report and advise the court regarding a minor child in an adoption case.  The GAL will report to the court on what the best interest of a child is in an adoption matter.

Guardian ad Litem - Family

All states 

This matter is used when the attorney is appointed by the court to act as the Guardian ad Litem in a family law case. He or she reports and advises the court regarding the issue at hand. In most cases, the GAL will prepare a report regarding what is in the child's best interests.

International Child Abduction

CA, IL

The International Child Abduction matter type is for use when representing the Petitioner or Respondent in an international child abduction case governed by the Hague Convention.

Juvenile Dependency

CA, FL, WA

State Agency files a case against the parent/s or foster parent/s or adoptive parent/s. Attorney/users can represent one parent or both parents (not as often) or the child.

Juvenile Protection

All states except FL

 This matter type is used when the attorney represents a party or the child in connection with a Juvenile Protection case.  

Law Guardian

NY

This matter is used when the user is appointed by the court to represent a minor child and advise the court regarding the issue at hand in Family Court proceedings. The Law Guardian will report to the court on the best interests of the child in a family law matter, and depending on the age of the child, the child’s desired custody arrangement. "Law Guardian" is the NY equivalent of GAL.

Mediation

All states except NC

 The Representing Mediator matter type is for use when the attorney is acting as the Mediator in a Family matter e.g. parentage, custody, visitation dispute. Initiating and Responding parties are Petitioner and Respondent respectively.

Nuptial & Domestic Agreement

All states

The Nuptial and Domestic Agreement Matter Type is for use when acting for either party to draft or negotiate a pre-nuptial, post-nuptial or domestic partnership agreement.

Order of Protection

All states 

The Order of Protection matter type is for use when your client is seeking protection from someone or is responding to a petition for protection and the divorce, legal separation or annulment proceedings have not yet been filed or will not be filed.

Parent Coordinator

MO, OH, PA

This matter type is used when the attorney is appointed to act as the Parent Coordinator. Different than Guardian ad Litem or Child Representative.

Parentage

All states 

The Parentage Matter Type is for use when acting for the Mother or Father in a matter to determine paternity between the putative father and the child/children.

Parenting Coordinator

CA, FL, IL, IN, MA, NJ, OK

This matter type is used when the attorney is appointed to act as the Parent Coordinator. Different than Guardian ad Litem or Child Representative.

Person In Need of Supervision (PINS)

NY

This matter type is used when the attorney represents the Petitioner or the Respondent (the child) in a PINS proceeding. A child under the age of 18 who does not attend school, or behaves in a way that is dangerous or out of control, or often disobeys his or her parents, guardians or other authorities, may be found to be a Person In Need of Supervision or "PINS". All PINS proceedings are heard in Family Court.

Post Decree

All states 

This is used when the attorney represents a Petitioner/Plaintiff or Respondent/Defendant in a family law case after the divorce or separation judgment has been entered. Common issues include Judgment enforcement and modification proceedings. If the attorney has the client sign a new attorney-client agreement after divorce, they should be opening Post Decree.

Pre Decree

All states 

This is used when the attorney represents a Petitioner/Plaintiff or Respondent/Defendant in a family law case before the divorce or separation judgment has been entered. We call it "Pre Decree" and not "Divorce" because this matter type can be used for either dissolution or legal separation proceedings.

QDRO Preparation

GA, IL, IN, NH, SC

This matter type is used when the client is drafting a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) in a Post Decree matter.

Surrogacy

All states except MI

This matter type is used when the attorney represents the intended parents or the surrogate in a surrogacy case.

Termination of Parental Rights

NC, PA, TX

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a parent or the child in connection with the termination of parental rights against the State's Child Protective Agency.

General

Note: This is where we place matter types that are rarely used and which don't fit neatly into other categories.

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Administration

All states 

Used for firm's internal matters.

Administrative Authority

All states

Used when a firm represents a client in connection with a matter being heard by an administrative authority, like a state agency.

Annuity

All states

 This matter type is used when assisting clients with obtaining or maintaining fixed or variable annuities, not necessarily in the role of an attorney.

Arbitration

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney acts as the Arbitrator in a dispute between the Plaintiff and Defendant.

Data Incident & Response

All states 

N/A

Disability Pension

IL 

Used when there is a dispute arising from a disability pension.

Disability Retirement

MA

This matter type is used when representing a claimant in connection with a multi-level disability retirement matter.

Entertainment

All states

Used for all matters related to Entertainment Law.

Expert Witness - Civil

All states

This matter is used when the attorney is testifying as an expert witness in a civil matter, either in litigation or in mediation. It can also be used when the attorney represents someone in their capacity as an expert witness in a civil matter.

Freedom of Information Act Request

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Requester or Public Body in connection with a FOIA request (request for public records/documents).

General

All states

This matter type is designed for use as a catch-all matter type for non-litigation matters where no other matter type fits. Note: people should avoid using this except in rare instances!

General Litigation

All states

This Matter Type is designed for use as a catch-all Matter Type for litigation matters where no other Matter Type fits. Note - people should use Civil Dispute more than this, since Civil Dispute has more cards and layouts on it.

Hearing Coverage

FL

N/A

Hearing Officer - Administrative Authority

IL, OH

This matter type is used when the attorney acts as the hearing officer in a case before an administrative authority. Note that the administrative authority's information will almost always be entered into the Plaintiff or Defendant card.

Lien or Settlement Consultation

All states except CA, IL

N/A

Life Insurance

All states

This matter type is used when assisting clients with obtaining or maintaining life insurance policies, not necessarily in the role of an attorney.

Maryland Public Information Act Response

MD

This matter is used when the attorney represents a public body in connection with a MPIA request.

Mediation

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney acts as the mediator in a dispute between the Plaintiff and Defendant.

Mental Health Record Request

IL

This matter type is used when someone represents a mental health care provider when the provider receives a records request from a third party, not in the context of litigation.

Municipality

GEN, IL, TX

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a municipality to assist it with a variety of its legal needs, such as creating tax levies, creating fiscal year budgets, or drafting ordinances.

Name Change - Adult

All states

This matter is used when the attorney represents a Petitioner who is filing a Petition with the Court to change his or her name.

Name Change - Child

All states

This matter is used when the attorney represents a Petitioner who is filing a Petition with the Court to change a minor child’s name.

Permit Application

All states

Used when the attorney is applying for a permit or when a permit number is needed.

Professional Consultation

All states 

N/A

Professional Regulation

All states 

Matter type is used in the representation of a client who has a matter regarding their professional license, such as a doctor before a medical board or an attorney that is being investigated or prosecuted for professional misconduct for the governing agency for that profession.

Special Master

All states

The Special Master Matter Type is for use when acting as the Special Master on a pending case assigned to them by a court judge, sometimes in federal court.

Tax

IL

Matter type is used when representing a client in connection with a tax matter. Note: It is best to use the matter types in the Tax category before using this one.

Tribal Law - Transactional

AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NC, ND, NE, NM, NV, Ok, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY

This matter type is used when you represent a tribe or other party in connection with a transactional matter involving tribal issues, including Intergovernmental Agreements,  General Counsel, and Statute drafting. 

US Court of Federal Claims

 IN

This matter type is used when a case is brought in the United States Court of Federal Claims. 

Guardianship

Most states fall into one of two situations:

  1. They have a "Guardian of the Estate" (responsible for all financial decisions) and a "Guardian of the Person" (responsible for all decisions re: person's wellbeing)
  2. They have a "Conservator" (responsible for all financial decisions) or a "Guardian" (responsible for all decisions re: person's wellbeing)

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Conservatorship

CA, MI, TX, WA, WI

CA: This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Petitioner, Conservatee, or Conservator in a Conservatorship case in the California Probate Court.

WI: The Conservatorship Matter Type can be used when acting for a Client who wants to ask the Court to appoint a Conservator.

Conservatorship - Adult Ward

GA, MS

The Conservatorship Matter Type can be used when acting for a Client who wants to ask the Court to appoint a Conservator.

Conservatorship - Appointment

CT

This matter type is used when the Attorney is appointed to act as the Conservator of the Estate, Conservator of the Person, or Conservator of the Estate and Person in a Conservatorship case.

Conservatorship - Involuntary

CT

Matter type for when an attorney represents the Petitioner or the Disabled Person in a case to appoint a Conservator for an alleged Disabled Person.

Conservatorship - Minor Ward

GA

The Conservatorship Matter Type can be used when acting for a Client who wants to ask the Court to appoint a Conservator.

Conservatorship - Voluntary

CT

Matter type for when the Attorney’s client wants to appoint a Conservator voluntarily through the Probate Court.

Conservatorship of a Disabled Person

AK, AR, DC, HI, IA, ID, KS, KY, MA, ME, MI, MO, MS, MT, ND, NJ, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, WV, WY

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a client in connection with a Conservatorship case. Two versions of this GEN matter type–one has Investigator and the other has Court Visitor (same investigatory role).

Conservatorship of a Minor

AK, AL, AZ, DC, HI, IA, ID, KS, KY, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, ND, OR, SC, SD, TN, UT

The Conservatorship of a Minor Matter Type is for use when acting for the Petitioner in a matter petitioning to appoint a Conservatorship for a minor(s). Two versions of this GEN matter type–one has Investigator and the other has Court Visitor (same investigatory role).

Conservatorship of an Alleged Disabled Person

 AL

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a client in connection with a Conservatorship case. Note: This is a matter type with Investigator instead of Court Visitor.

Court Evaluator - Guardianship of an Alleged Disabled Person

NY

This matter type is used when the Attorney is appointed to act as the Court Evaluator in a Guardianship proceeding for an alleged disabled person.

Guardian ad Litem - Adult Ward

GA

The Guardian ad Litem – Adult Ward Matter Type can be used when the attorney is acting as the GAL for the Adult Ward.

Guardian ad Litem - Estate Administration - Minor

WI

This matter type is used when the attorney is appointed as the Guardian ad Litem in an Estate Administration case in which the parent of a child has died and a permanent or temporary Guardian must be appointed for the child.

Guardian ad Litem - Guardianship of a Disabled Person

All states except AL, CT, GA, NY

This matter type is used when the attorney is the GAL appointed by the court to conduct and investigation and prepare a report regarding what is in the best interest of the disabled person.

Guardian ad Litem - Guardianship of a Minor

All states except GA, LA

The Guardianship of a Minor – GAL matter type is used when you are the GAL appointed by the court to report on the best interest of the minor to the court.

Guardian ad Litem - Guardianship of an Alleged Disabled Person

AL

This matter type is used when you are the Guardian ad Litem appointed by the court on behalf of the disabled person. 

Guardian ad Litem - Minor Ward

GA

The Guardian ad Litem – Minor Ward Matter Type can be used when the attorney is acting as the GAL for the Minor Ward.

Guardianship of a Disabled Person

All states except AL, CA, GO, GA

The Guardianship of a Disabled Person is for use when acting for the Petitioner or Alleged Disabled Person in a matter petitioning to appoint a Guardian. 

Guardianship of a Minor

All states except CO, GA

The Guardianship of a Minor Matter Type is for use when acting for the Petitioner or Minor in a matter petitioning to appoint a Guardian for a minor(s). 

Guardianship of a Minor Ward

GA

The Guardianship of a Minor Ward can be used when the attorney is acting as the Guardian for the Minor Ward.

Guardianship of an Adult Ward

GA

The Guardianship of an Adult Ward can be used when the attorney is acting as the Guardian for the Adult Ward.

Guardianship of an Alleged Disabled Person

AL 

This matter type is used when acting for the petitioner or alleged disabled person in a matter petitioning to appoint a Guardian. Note: This matter uses Court Visitor instead of Investigator. 

Guardianship of an Alleged Incapacitated Person

NY

The Guardianship of an Alleged Incapacitated Person is for use when acting for the Petitioner or Alleged Incapacitated Person in a matter petitioning to appoint a Guardian when the AIP is unable to manage his/her financial or personal affairs.

Interdiction

LA

This is used when the attorney represents a Petitioner or a disabled person in an Interdiction matter (equivalent of guardianship, just called something different in LA)

Mental Hygiene – Involuntary Commitment

WV 

A Mental Hygiene Involuntary Commitment matter type that can be used when acting for an Applicant, Responding Party or Mental Hygiene Commissioner regarding a proceeding before the Court to Involuntarily Commit a person to a mental health facility.

Protective Proceeding - Adult

CO

This matter is used when there is a protective proceeding filed regarding an adult, which can result in a conservator, guardian, or both being appointed for the disabled adult.

Protective Proceeding - Minor

CO

This matter is used when there is a protective proceeding filed regarding a minor, which can result in a conservator, guardian, or both being appointed for the minor.

Public Administrator of a Disabled Person

NC

N/A

Public Administrator of a Minor

NC

N/A

Immigration

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Immigration Court

All states

Used when the attorney represents a client in connection with an immigration matter that is not related to an application of any sort submitted to USCIS.

Immigration General

All states

N/A

Immigration Visa

All states

Immigration matter type used for all green card applications. 

Insurance

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Carrier-Initiated Action

 TX

N/A

Insurance Coverage

All states 

This matter type is used when working to advise the Insurer on the Insurer's obligation regarding a claim or lawsuit.

Insurance Defense

AL, AR, CA, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, LA, MN, MO, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NY, TX, VA, WI

This matter is used when representing an Insurance Company.

Insurance Defense – Employment Claim

WA

N/A

Intellectual Property

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Intellectual Property

 N/A

N/A

Intellectual Property Application

All states 

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a client who is seeking a trademark, patent, or copyright.

Intellectual Property General

All states

For use for any non-litigation matter involving intellectual property matters.

Intellectual Property Litigation

All states

For use for any litigation matter involving patents, copyright, trademark, or IP litigation.

Long Term Care

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Care Coordination

All states 

The Care Coordination Matter Type (non-legal process Matter Type) is used to set up the client’s assets and affairs in order to assist them in transitioning into or planning a long-term care facility.

Long Term Care General

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney is retained to represent a client in regards to a long term care issue which is general and not covered by the other matter types.

Medicaid Appeal

All states

The Medicaid Appeal Matter Type is for use when acting for a client appealing the decision of their Medicaid Application.

Medicaid Application

All states

The Medicaid Application Matter Type is used to set up the client’s assets and affairs in order for them to apply and become eligible for Medicaid assistance.

Military

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Fiduciary - Appointment

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney is appointed to act as a Fiduciary by the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA).

Military General

All states

This matter is used when the attorney represents a client in connection with a military matter and the matter does not fit well into other existing matter types.

Veterans Benefits

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Veteran, the Spouse, the Child, or the Parent in submitting a claim for Veterans Benefits.

Oil, Gas, and Mineral

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Oil, Gas & Mineral Lease

All states

Used when an attorney represents a lessor or lessee in connection with an oil, gas, and/or mineral lease.

Regulatory

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents an Applicant or Respondent in connection with a regulatory matter before a State Board.

Surface Damage Dispute

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a surface owner or operator in connection with a surface damage dispute.

Personal Injury

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Motor Vehicle Accident Injury - Defendant

AL, AR, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, LA, MD, NY, OH, PA, SC, TX, WA

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Defendant in connection with a Motor Vehicle Accident matter.

Motor Vehicle Accident Injury – Plaintiff

All states 

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Plaintiff in connection with a Motor Vehicle Accident matter.

No-Fault Motor Vehicle accident Injury Claim

MI

This matter type is used when you represent a client in connection with a no-fault motor vehicle accident injury claim.

Personal Injury – Defendant

All states except DC

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Defendant in connection with a Personal Injury matter.

Personal Injury – Plaintiff

All states

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Plaintiff in connection with a Personal Injury matter.

Pro Ami Settlement

AL

This matter type is used when the attorney represents the child, plaintiff, or defendant in a pro ami settlement. This is related to PI and occurs when a minor has an interest in the case valued at $5,000 or more. It has its own initiating document separate from a normal PI claim.

Probate and Estate Administration

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Adversarial

All states 

Used in Probate when the client is an adversarial party, who may be contesting something in the Probate case. If the attorney represents someone other than the Executor/Personal Rep. they should use this matter type.

Civil Commitment

All states 

Matter type used for civil commitment process, where the respondent is the alleged person requiring commitment due to mental health or physical issues.

Court-Supervised Trust Administration

CA

This matter is used when the attorney represents a Trustee, Beneficiary, or Conservator in connection with a court-supervised trust administration.

Decedent's Estate

All states except WI

The Probate Matter Type is for use when acting for the Executor/Personal Representative during the estate administration (Probate) process.

Estate Administration

WI

 The Estate Administration matter type will be used by attorneys who are representing a personal representative in the formal administration or informal administration of a deceased person who died either testate or intestate.

Estate Litigation

CA, FL, KS, KY, MN, MO, SC, TX, WI

N/A

Guardian ad Litem - Decedent's Estate - Disabled Person

 IL

This matter type is used when the attorney is appointed as the Guardian ad Litem in an Decedent's Estate case in which a disabled person is a party to the case and a permanent or temporary Guardian must be appointed for the disabled person.

Guardian ad Litem - Decedent's Estate - Minor

 IL

This matter type is used when the attorney is appointed as the Guardian ad Litem in a Decedent's Estate case in which the parent of a child has died and a permanent or temporary Guardian must be appointed for the child.

Heirship

TX

A proceeding to determine a deceased person's heirs when the person died without a will. If there was a will, use Decedent's Estate, because the case will follow a more typical path through Probate.

Mediation

All states 

This matter type is used when the attorney is acting as mediator in a probate dispute.

Non-Probate Administration

All states 

The Non-Probate Administration Matter Type is for use when acting for the Executor during the estate administration process where Probate is not required.

Public Administration Special Proceeding

 NC

N/A

Small Estate Affidavit

All states 

This matter type is used when the estate of the decedent is considered small enough to bypass or reduce the involvement of the probate court.

Trust Administration

All states 

The Trust Administration Matter Type is used when managing the trust terms with regards to the beneficiaries after the trust holder dies.

Real Estate

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

1031 Exchange

All states 

This matter type should be used when initiating 1031 exchanges in an attempt to circumvent capital gains by selling properties and reinvesting the money earned from the sale into another property of equal or greater value.

Buy

All states

The Buy Matter Type can be used for all residential real estate purchase and closing transactions when you are acting for the Buyers.

Buy - Act for Lender

NJ, NY

This matter type is used when the attorney represents the lender in a Buy transaction.

Buy - Commercial

All states 

The Buy - Commercial Matter Type can be used for all commercial real estate purchase and closing transactions when you are acting for the Buyers.

Buy - Third Party

All states except NJ

Used when you act for the Buyer and the Other Side is a Third Party e.g. HUD, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Bank. The Seller is party to the proceedings in the sense that it has their own attorney and will need to appear on the Closing Documents but the Third Party runs the process.

Closing Attorney

FL

This matter type is used when the attorney is acting as the closing attorney and does not own or works for the title company. 

Easement

All states 

Used when the attorney represents either the Grantor or Grantee in the process to establish an easement (right to access land that belongs to someone else).

Financing

All states 

This matter is used when an attorney represents a Borrower or a Lender in a transaction in which the Borrower is obtaining financing related to a real estate property, such as a HELOC or a loan between family members.

Homeowners' Association

"

All states 

Used when the attorney is representing a Homeowners' Association. 

Land Trust

FL, IL

N/A

Land Use

All states 

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a client in connection with a land use contract or agreement. The contract is often between a property owner and a local municipality.

Lease

All states 

The Lease Matter Type is for use when acting for the Landlord or Tenant for a residential lease agreement.

Lease - Commercial

All states

The Lease - Commercial Matter Type is for use when acting for the Landlord or Tenant for a commercial lease agreement.

Lease – Wind/Solar

IL

For completion of wind turbine and solar panel lease agreements.

Loan Modification

All states 

Used when representing borrower or lender in a loan modification matter.

Plat Opinion

FL

This matter type is used when an individual or entity is obtaining a plat opinion letter from a municipality regarding the creation of a plat to develop and sell individual lots in the plat.

Real Estate General

All states except NJ

This matter type is used when the attorney is retained by a client regarding general real estate issues that are not related to litigation or a particular transaction.

Refinance

All states 

This matter type is used when representing the Borrower or Lender when the Borrower is refinancing his or her mortgage.

Sell

All states 

The Sell Matter Type can be used for all residential real estate sale and closing transactions when you are acting for the Sellers.

Sell - Commercial

All states

The Sell - Commercial Matter Type can be used for all commercial real estate sale and closing transactions when you are acting for the Sellers.

Sell - Third Party

IL

The Sell - Third Party Matter Type can be used for all residential real estate sale and closing transactions when you are acting for a third party on behalf of the Seller/s.

Short Sale

IL

The Short Sale matter type is to be used when representing the Seller in a short sale.

Title Company

AL, CA, FL, GA, NY, TX

This matter type is used when the attorney and/or the firm is acting as the title company and does not technically have a client. NOTE: this is a GEN matter type, but it is only visible to FL.

Title Insurance

IL, NY

This matter is used when the attorney is an examining counsel for a title insurance company. The attorney does not represent the title insurance company. The attorney can represent the buyer or seller in a real estate transaction, or a borrower in a loan modification. 

Title Opinion

OK

This matter type is used when the attorney has been retained to provide a title opinion letter for a real estate transaction.

Transfer

All states 

The Transfer Matter Type can be used when transferring property outside of sale or purchase transaction, such as between family members.

Transfer - Third Party

 IL

N/A

Zoning

All states 

The Zoning matter type is used when the attorney represents a Client in connection with a Zoning issue.  Zoning involves regulation of land, including establishment, variation, amendment, and appeals.

Real Estate Litigation

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Action to Quiet Title

CA, FL, IN, NE, SC, TX, WA

N/A

Construction Dispute

All states 

N/A

Drainage Law - District Representation

IL

This matter type is used when the attorney is hired by the Drainage District Commissioners to help them carry out their duties in service of a Water District after the Water District has already been organized.

Eviction

All states except CA, IL

The Eviction Matter Type is for use when acting for the Plaintiff or Defendant in the pre-filing or post-filing stages of the eviction case to remove someone from the owner's property.

Forcible Entry & Detainer

IL

IL's version of Eviction. The Forcible Entry & Detainer Matter Type is for use when acting for the Plaintiff or Defendant in the pre-filing or post-filing stages of the eviction case to remove someone from the owner's property.

Foreclosure

All states except GA

The Foreclosure Matter Type can be used for foreclosure proceedings when you are acting for the Plaintiff or Defendant. Litigation proceedings.

Foreclosure – Committee of Sale

CT

Matter type for when an attorney is appointed by the Superior Court after the Court has ordered a foreclosure by sale.

Foreclosure – Municipal Lien

All states

N/A

Foreclosure – Non-Judicial

AR, CA, GA, MO, NH, TX, WV

This matter type is used when an attorney represents a party in connection with a Non-Judicial Foreclosure.

Foreclosure – Referee

NY

This matter type is used when the attorney is appointed to act as the Referee in a New York Foreclosure case.

Housing Discrimination

All states

Matter type for representing a client involved in a dispute related to housing discrimination issues.

Mechanics Lien

All states 

This matter type is used when the attorney represents the Plaintiff or Defendant in connection with a Mechanics Lien case. Mechanics Lien is when a contractor files a lien against a property after claiming they have not been paid for contractor services.

Nuisance - Defense

All states 

Nuisance matter type is a quasi-criminal matter in which a municipality, town, or city will initiate a case and prosecute the owner of real property for the condition it is in. Penalties are usually monetary, but extreme cases and habitual violators may be subject to criminal sanctions.

Nuisance - Prosecution

All states

Nuisance matter type is a quasi-criminal matter in which a municipality, town, or city will initiate a case and prosecute the owner of real property for the condition it is in. Penalties are usually monetary, but extreme cases and habitual violators may be subject to criminal sanctions.

Partition

 FL

N/A

Property Tax Appeal

All states except IL

Used when the attorney represents a client in connection with a real estate tax appeal.

Real Estate Dispute

All states except IL

The Real Estate Dispute Matter Type can be used for litigated disputes regarding real estate, whether you are acting for the Plaintiff or Defendant.

Real Estate Dispute - Commercial

All states

The Commercial Real Estate Dispute Matter Type is for use when acting for the Plaintiff or Defendant in a dispute regarding a commercial property.

Real Estate Dispute - Land

 IL, TX, WI

Real estate dispute involving land. 

Real Estate Dispute - Lease

All states 

Real Estate dispute involving a lease.

Real Estate Dispute - Residential

All states 

The Residential Real Estate Dispute Matter Type can be used for litigated disputes regarding residential real estate, whether you are acting for the Plaintiff or Defendant.

Real Estate Tax Appeal (Advanced)

IL

Complex and robust matter type to be used for property tax appeals in IL only, as the calculations are very IL-specific. Users should not be using the obsolete "Real Estate Tax Appeal" matter type.

Real Estate Tax Exemption 

IL

For completion of real estate property tax exemption applications.

Receivership

IL

N/A

Tax Sale

All states 

Matter is used for Illinois Tax Sale and Tax Deed matters.

Title Insurance Dispute

All states 

N/A

Unlawful Detainer

CA

CA version of Eviction.  This matter type is used when the attorney represents a Plaintiff or Defendant in connection with a CA Unlawful Detainer (aka Eviction) case.

Social Security

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Social Security

All states

For matters related to Social Security Disability (SSD/SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application and appeals

Witness - Social Security

IL

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a witness in connection with a social security matter.

Tax

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Tax - Collections

MI

N/A

Tax - Compliance

All states 

N/A

Tax - Estate

All states

Matter is used for tax issues involving estate planning or post-mortem tax issues.

Tax - Exams

MI

N/A

Tax - General

All states

For use for any general client representation regarding tax issues

Tax Appeal

MI

N/A

Tax Dispute - Business

All states

For a client matter involving a tax dispute between the client/entity and a governmental agency.

Tax Dispute - Criminal

MI 

N/A

Tax Dispute - Personal

WY

Matter involving an individual tax dispute with a state or federal internal revenue service.

Water Rights

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Adjudication

MT, NM

This matter type is used when the attorney represents an Objector or a Water Rights Owner in a court action to adjudicate water rights.

New or Amended Appropriations

MT, NM

This matter type is used when the attorney represents an Applicant in a permit application/amendment for water usage rights.

Workers Compensation

Matter Type Name

Location

Description

Witness - Workers' Compensation

 IL

This matter type is used when the attorney represents a witness in connection with a workers' compensation case. 

Workers' Compensation Claim

AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NM, NV, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT< VA, VT, WA, WV, WY

The Workers Compensation Claim Matter Type is for use, when acting for the Employee or Employer. When an employee is hurt in the course of his or her employment, states have workers' compensation laws that specify the method and amount of paying for these types of injuries. 

Workers' Compensation Third Party Claim

IL

The Workers Compensation Third-Party Claim Matter Type is for use, when a third party (not the employer) is claimed to be at fault, whether you are acting for the injured person (the Plaintiff) or Defendant.

Workers' Compensation

CT, IA, IL, MA, MN, NE, NY, OK, TX, WI This matter type is used when an attorney represents a party in connection with a workers' compensation claim. 
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