Post by Jessie Desmond on Jun 18, 2015 13:39:50 GMT -9
While it may seem easy to put together a case file, many people find it difficult to get started. The main question is: What goes into it? Here are some recommendations as to how to put a case file together.
1. Use a Legal size fastener folder. This will fit most paperwork that you will come across. Also, the fasteners will help keep your papers in order.
2. During your investigation keep an Investigation Log. Keep track of dates and times of research, investigations, interviews, etc. I mention this first because it's important to get it started, but this is usually the last thing I add to the investigation folder OR I add it periodically - so it might not be completely up-to-date all the time.
3. Provide a Case Info Sheet. This should be kept to 1-page. It's the very basic information on what the case is about, location, main contact information, etc. This way, if you pass this case file to someone, they can easily see what the case is about. Be sure to update this with any new contact information.
4. Interviews and Statements. You will want to have a transcript of all interviews and statements. Be sure to include names, location, and contact information of people providing interviews and statements.
5. Any signed paperwork. If someone wants to sign a waiver or a privacy contract - keep it in the file. It won't get lost and anyone who looks at the file will be able to find any legal paper work.
6. Media files. Keep copies of photographs, drawings, maps, audio, video, etc in your file. (I generally use an expandable folder that I just keep my case file and anything else in.)
7. Research records. You will also want to keep track of all of your news articles, military documents, legal documents, etc in your case file.
8. Anything else that you find to be important to the case should be in your file.
When you finally close the case, you should be able to go through your case file and write up a case report. You shouldn't have to fish around for photos or an interview. You shouldn't happen to just lose that important drawing. It should all be right there at your fingertips.
Am I missing anything?
1. Use a Legal size fastener folder. This will fit most paperwork that you will come across. Also, the fasteners will help keep your papers in order.
2. During your investigation keep an Investigation Log. Keep track of dates and times of research, investigations, interviews, etc. I mention this first because it's important to get it started, but this is usually the last thing I add to the investigation folder OR I add it periodically - so it might not be completely up-to-date all the time.
3. Provide a Case Info Sheet. This should be kept to 1-page. It's the very basic information on what the case is about, location, main contact information, etc. This way, if you pass this case file to someone, they can easily see what the case is about. Be sure to update this with any new contact information.
4. Interviews and Statements. You will want to have a transcript of all interviews and statements. Be sure to include names, location, and contact information of people providing interviews and statements.
5. Any signed paperwork. If someone wants to sign a waiver or a privacy contract - keep it in the file. It won't get lost and anyone who looks at the file will be able to find any legal paper work.
6. Media files. Keep copies of photographs, drawings, maps, audio, video, etc in your file. (I generally use an expandable folder that I just keep my case file and anything else in.)
7. Research records. You will also want to keep track of all of your news articles, military documents, legal documents, etc in your case file.
8. Anything else that you find to be important to the case should be in your file.
When you finally close the case, you should be able to go through your case file and write up a case report. You shouldn't have to fish around for photos or an interview. You shouldn't happen to just lose that important drawing. It should all be right there at your fingertips.
Am I missing anything?