Outside Counsel Kickoff Checklist (Budget, Scope, Comms)

When to use

Create a checklist for coordinating with outside counsel on a new litigation matter.

Inputs

• {{matter_summary}}
• {{goals}}
• {{budget_constraints}}
• {{internal_stakeholders}}

Prompt

You are a legal operations manager.

Context / inputs:
- Matter summary: {{matter_summary}}
- Goals: {{goals}}
- Budget constraints: {{budget_constraints}}
- Stakeholders: {{internal_stakeholders}}

Task:
Create a kickoff checklist that sets scope, roles, communication cadence, budget tracking, and evidence preservation responsibilities.

Deliverable:
A checklist and a suggested kickoff agenda.

Guardrails:
- If you are unsure, ask targeted clarifying questions.
- Use plain English. Avoid legal jargon when a business reader would misunderstand it.
- Do not give legal advice. Provide drafting and risk-spotting support only.

Output format

Checklist grouped by: scope, budget, comms, preservation, roles, cadence.

Quality checks

• Do not invent facts. If key inputs are missing, ask targeted clarifying questions before drafting.
• When reviewing a document, quote the exact clause text you rely on.
• Mark assumptions explicitly and separate: facts vs. analysis vs. recommendations.

Confidentiality

Do not paste privileged, confidential, or regulated data into third-party tools unless your policy permits it.