The Update Matter action allows you to automatically update an existing matter or lead when a workflow runs. You can use it to keep matter records current without manually making changes as a case progresses.
For example, you can use the Update Matter action to:
Add or update matter tags automatically.
Update custom fields based on client intake form submissions.
Change billing settings as a matter moves through different stages.
Keep matter information synchronized with workflow activity.
How to Add the Update Matter Action
Open Workflows from the left navigation menu.
Create a new workflow or open an existing workflow.
Configure the workflow trigger and any conditions required for the automation.
Click Add Action.
Select Update Matter.
Configure the fields you want the workflow to update.
Select the values you want to apply to the matter.
Save the action and publish or activate the workflow.
Configure the Update Matter Action
Configure the specific fields you wish to update on the matter record.
Important Note: You only need to fill out the fields you want to change. Any field left blank will keep its original value. When entering data, you can type static text for fixed updates across all records, or use merge tags to map dynamic data directly from your workflow trigger or preceding action steps.
1. Identifying the Case & Updating Details
Matter Id/Lead Id (*): Required field. Map this dynamically using merge fields to pull the Matter ID or Lead ID from your trigger or search step so Lawcus knows exactly which case to update.
Matter Name: Enter static text or map dynamic values from a merge tag if the case name needs to be modified.
Matter Client: Select or dynamically map a new client to associate with the record.
Description: Add or update case notes using text, form answers,
Matter Open Date: Set or update the case opening date.
2. Stage & Classification Updates
Matter Pipeline & Matter Stage: Update the case's pipeline or move it to a new stage automatically.
Matter Practice Area & Color Code: Reassign the practice area or update the card's color code on board views.
3. Billing Preferences
Matter Billing Type: Change the billing model (Hourly, Flat Rate, or Non-Billable).
Matter Rate & Billing Instructions: Update hourly rates or revise invoicing instructions using static entries, dynamic values, or AI writing tools.
4. Team Assignment & Related Contacts
Matter Originating & Responsible Timekeepers: Reassign or update team roles on the matter.
Members: Click
Add Memberto assign additional team members.Related Contacts: Click
Add Related Contactto attach new linked individuals.
5. Custom Fields & Tags
Custom Fields: Expand this section to map incoming dynamic responses (such as client answers submitted via intake forms) directly into custom case fields.
Tags: Expand this section to append new tags or keywords as the matter progresses.
Example Scenarios
Automated Stage Tagging: Automatically apply "Trial Ready" tags and update practice area details when a matter moves into the litigation pipeline stage.
Post-Intake Custom Field Sync: Automatically update custom case fields with responses from a completed client questionnaire.
Dynamic Merge Tag Reference
To learn how to dynamically map variables from triggers or previous steps using merge tags, refer to our Understanding and Using Merge Fields in Lawcus Workflows article.
Summary
The Update Matter action keeps case management automated and accurate. By setting up dynamic mappings for custom fields, stages, or tags, Lawcus ensures your matters remain fully updated as client information comes in or as work progresses.