Case Context Best Practices

Case Context is only as useful as the information you put into it. A well-written Case Context produces noticeably better AI prompts and more accurate results. Here is how to get the most out of it.

Keep it factual

Case Context should describe what the case is about, not how you plan to win it. Stick to facts, dates, names, and objective criteria.

Good: "The dispute concerns a breach of a software licensing agreement executed on March 15, 2023 between Acme Corp and Beta Inc."

Avoid: "We believe the opposing party acted in bad faith and our client has a strong position."

The AI does not need your legal strategy -- it needs to understand what the documents are about so it can analyze them accurately.

Focus on review-relevant information

Not everything about the case matters for document review. Focus on the information that helps the AI evaluate documents correctly.

Ask yourself: "If a reviewer read this Case Context, would they know what to look for?" If the answer is yes, you have written it well.

Be specific about privilege scenarios

Privilege identification depends heavily on context. The more specific you are about who the lawyers are and what relationships exist, the better Claira can identify privileged communications.

Instead of: "Communications with lawyers may be privileged."

Write: "Communications between Jane Doe (General Counsel, Acme Corp) and the executive team regarding the Beta Inc. transaction are likely subject to solicitor-client privilege. Acme Corp's outside counsel is Smith & Partners LLP, specifically Tom Smith and Lisa Park."

Include dates and date ranges

Dates anchor the AI's understanding. Include:

• When the key events occurred
• The date range of the collection
• Any cutoff dates that define the relevant period

This helps Claira distinguish between documents that fall within the relevant period and those that do not.

Update as the case evolves

Case Context is not a one-time task. Matters change -- new custodians are added, issues narrow or expand, new parties emerge. Review your Case Context periodically and update it to reflect the current state of the matter.

Write for the AI, not for the court

Case Context is an internal tool that helps the AI understand your matter. It is not a filing, a memo, or a record that will be produced. Write in plain language. Skip the legalese. Be direct.

Do not include privileged strategy

Case Context is visible to all users on the case. Do not include:

• Work product or mental impressions
• Litigation strategy or case theories
• Confidential assessment of strengths and weaknesses
• Settlement positions

Checklist

Before you save your Case Context, confirm:

• Parties and people are listed with their roles and relationships
• The description covers what the case is about in plain language
• Relevance criteria are specific enough to guide AI prompts
• Privilege indicators name specific lawyers, firms, and relationships
• Collection details describe what was collected and any known gaps
• No privileged strategy or work product is included
• Dates and date ranges are included where relevant

Need help? Contact support@claira.to