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Overview
You can create document templates and merge them with information stored in your My Case account with a single click. There are two ways to create templates in MyCase: through our web-based word processor or a more standard word processing system, such as Microsoft Word.
This feature is available only in the Pro and Advanced tiers.
Four major features make up Document Automation:
MyCase Draft: A web-based word processor that lets you create and edit documents within MyCase! You can even access MyCase Draft on an iPad, giving you full word processing capabilities from anywhere. With Draft, you can create document templates and merge those templates with information in MyCase.
Microsoft Word Templates: Create document templates in Microsoft Word and upload them to MyCase. You can then merge those templates with information stored in MyCase. Supported file types: Word 2007+ (.docx) & Pages '09 (within Pages, select File >> Export To >> Pages '09).
Advanced Document Automation: Brings your firm's drafting process to the next level! Build your templates in Microsoft Word, eliminate embarrassing errors, and reduce the risk of inaccurate document drafting. This feature is available in the Advanced Tier. Learn more here.
Custom Fields: MyCase lets you add custom fields to your cases and contacts. This is very useful for Document Automation because it allows you to create complex documents based on information and data unique to your law firm. Learn more about Custom Fields.
Method 1: Using MyCase's Built-in Word Processor
Best for quick templates and access from any device, including iPads.
Start: On the dashboard, click Document > Start with a blank page.
Design: Enter a Document Title and write your content.
Insert Data: Click Insert Merge Field to pull in specific case or contact info.
Save: Go to File > Save as Template.
Organize: Add a name, tags, or description, then click Save and Close.
Tips for Avoiding Common Issues
Data Verification: Double-check contact and case information to ensure accuracy before merging.
Merge Field Placement: Use proper formatting while inserting merge fields to avoid alignment errors.
Method 2: Creating Templates with Microsoft Word
Best for documents requiring advanced formatting or complex layouts.
Get Fields: In MyCase, go to Documents > Templates > View Merge Fields.
Copy/Paste: Use Copy to Clipboard for the fields you need and paste them directly into your Word .docx file.
Upload: In the Templates sub-tab, click Add Document > Upload One.
Link: Select the Source file, add a Case Link, and click Upload New Document.
How to Generate a Document from a Template
Once your template is saved, follow these steps to use it:
Go to Documents > Templates and click the template title.
Select Merge This Template.
Choose the Case you want to apply the data from.
Save & Close or Save & Open to view the finalized document.
Best Practices
File Format Consistency: Always upload .docx files for compatibility with MyCase.
Merge Code Accuracy: Use the "Copy to Clipboard" feature for merge tags to minimize errors.
Proof Templates: Check for stray characters and formatting issues before uploading to MyCase.
Quick Troubleshooting Tips
Missing Data: If a field is blank, ensure that specific info is actually filled out in the MyCase Case or Contact profile.
Formatting Errors: When using Word, avoid underlining or adding extra characters inside the merge field brackets {{ }}.
Copy/Paste Rule: Always use the "Copy to Clipboard" button rather than typing merge fields manually to prevent typos.
Considerations for Advanced Features
Conditional Logic: Available in Advanced Tier templates, enabling customized content based on conditions.
Custom Attributes: Ensure precise match to predefined attribute names for accurate merging.