Why Version Control Matters for Legal Documents
Legal documents go through many drafts. Without version control, you will inevitably send the wrong version to opposing counsel, or overwrite a negotiated clause with an earlier draft. A version-controlled vault means you always know which document is current and who changed what.
Step 1: Create Your Folder Templates
Before uploading anything, set up folder templates for each matter type you handle. A litigation template might include: Pleadings, Correspondence, Evidence, Expert Reports, Costs, and Court Orders. A corporate M&A template might include: Due Diligence, Transaction Documents, Board Minutes, Filings, and Completion.
Step 2: Apply a Naming Convention
Every document should follow the same naming pattern. We recommend: YYYY-MM-DD_MatterRef_DocumentType_Version. For example: 2026-04-15_GV-2026-0124_ParticularsOfClaim_v2.docx. The date prefix ensures alphabetical sort equals chronological sort.
Step 3: Upload and Tag
Drag and drop files into the relevant matter folder. Gavel accepts any file type. After upload, add tags for document type (Pleading, Correspondence, Evidence) and status (Draft, Signed, Filed). Tags make filtering fast when a matter runs to hundreds of documents.
Step 4: Set Access Permissions
By default, all fee-earners on a matter can view and upload documents. You can restrict specific folders (e.g. Costs) to partners only, or grant read-only access to a client who needs to review documents through their portal.
Step 5: Enable Version Tracking
When you upload a new version of an existing document, Gavel prompts you to link it to the previous version. The full version history is always accessible, and you can compare two versions to see what changed.