Adding a Closed Matter Identifier

Overview of Closed Matter Identifier

In AbacusLaw, you can add a Closed ID field to the Matter window. The field is automatically assigned a sequential number once the matter is closed. Once a matter has been closed, its Closed ID value will not change, even if the matter is reopened or the closed date is altered.

Step 1: Add CLOSED_ID Field to the Matters Database

1. Select File > Setup > Database structures.

2. The Data Structure window appears. Set Database to Edit to Matters and click Add.
   
   

3. The Add Field to Database window appears. Complete the window as follows and click Done.
   
   

4. Click Done on the Data Structure window.

5. The Pending Changes Exist window appears. Click Execute changes and create new databases.
   
   

6. A window appears asking you if you want to review your changes. Click Yes.

7. Verify that the CLOSED_ID field was added to the Matters database and click Done to close the window.
   
   

Step 2: Add Closed ID Field to Matter Screens

Add the Closed ID field to all Matter screens being used.

1. Select File > Setup > User-defined Screens > Matter.

2. The Screens for MATTERS window appears. Highlight the Matter screen you want to change and click Edit.
   
   

3. The Screen Designer window appears. Right-click a blank area on the screen and click Add Variable Text.
   
   

4. Enter the following expression to combine field name and field value to show as one field and click Done.
   
   "Closed ID   " + LTrim( Str(  oDbf:Closed_ID ) )
   
   

5. Position the Closed ID field on the screen as desired. Click Done to save your changes.