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.

If you were Sharon, in which category would you look for the file?

Do you see any problems with this coding system?

What are they?

What are your suggestions for improving the system?

Julie is a paralegal for a medium-sized firm. She is having problems finding files in the office. The files are never in the central filing area, and out cards are not inserted where the missing files should be filed. After hours of searching, one attorney, the managing partner, is always found to be responsible for removing the files without placing out cards in their places. The files are buried in his office, in the trunk of his car, or at his home.

What are the problems with the system?

What could be done about this problem?

What would you do about this problem?