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Matter HandoffMicro SOP

Transfer a Matter File to Another Team Member

Use the TRANSFER workflow to hand off an active matter with verified deadlines, one authoritative record, material context, working access, explicit acceptance, and clear ownership.

Core lesson: 5-10 minutes Reviewed against 8 official and supporting sources

Goal & what you need

Goal

Enable the receiving team member to continue authorized matter work without a dropped deadline, missing record, silent access failure, or ownership gap.

What you need

  • Authorized handoff and named receiving person
  • Approved matter repository and current task or calendar access
  • Responsible lawyer or supervisor for unresolved decisions
  • Known scope, effective time, and temporary or permanent coverage type
  • Authority to review or request access changes

Check your firm’s process. This lesson teaches a safe general workflow. Your firm’s software, folder names, naming rules, retention steps, and escalation contacts may differ. If you are unsure, stop and ask your supervisor.

Step-by-step preview

Members can open all 12 steps.

  1. 1Confirm who authorized the handoff, the receiver, included matters or workstreams, coverage type, and effective time
  2. 2Create a dated matter snapshot covering current posture, recent material activity, next event, responsible lawyer, and immediate risk

Continue the full course

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Sources & references (8)

Preview two sources. Members can open the complete source list.

OfficialThe Florida BarPrimary source

Rules Regulating The Florida Bar

Website

OfficialThe Florida BarPrimary source

Florida Ethics Opinion 12-3

Ethics Opinion