The law firm of Smith & Jones utilizes a subject alphabetical system and separates client files by area of law: bankruptcy, criminal, domestic, litigation, probate, and real estate. Litigation was commenced on real property in Thomas Nelson's case. Sharon, the paralegal, was given an assignment on the case and must retrieve the file. She knows that Thomas Nelson is deceased, and a case was opened.

a. If you were Sharron, in which category would you look for the file? b. Do you see any problems with this coding system? What are they?

c. What are your suggestions for improving the system?