Loss Prevention Tip #17: Become a Successful Delegatee

From an insurance risk and management perspective, we cannot express often enough the importance of effective communication. We remind lawyers about the importance of properly documenting their files and to provide clear instruction to their associates and support staff when delegating work.

But what can you do to ensure you understand the instruction you have received from a supervising lawyer in your firm and avoid unnecessary mistakes?

Here is a list of questions you can use to make sure you receive clear direction before tackling an assignment:

1. How does this assignment fit into the matter we are working on?
2. What should the end product look like?
3. How much time do you expect me to spend on it?
4. Is this a priority?
5. When should it be completed by?
6. Where else can I get information or other help? Do you have a precedent or template I can work from?
7. Who is responsible for decisions and liaising with the client?
8. When would you like me to provide a status report to you?
9. Summarize what you intend to do. “To make sure I understand correctly…”

Taking the time to be proactive will save you time correcting mistakes later on, help avoid a possible claim, and allow the supervising lawyer to know that they have picked the right person for the job!