LITIGATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD
A computer-based user interface for accessing litigation information associated with at least one litigation case includes a home page. The home page includes a first plurality of user-selectable hyperlinks. Each hyperlink in the first plurality of hyperlinks identifies a category of litigation information. The interface also includes a plurality of web pages. Each web page is associated with one of the hyperlinks in the first plurality of hyperlinks. Each web page provides litigation information related to the category identified by the hyperlink associated with the web page. Each web page is displayed in response to selection of the hyperlink associated with the web page.
Latest MERCHANT & GOULD, P.C. Patents:
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/691,098, filed Mar. 26, 2007, and entitled LITIGATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/028,060, filed Dec. 21, 2001, and entitled LITIGATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD, which is a Non-Provisional Utility patent application and claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/257,607, filed Dec. 22, 2000, entitled LITIGATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
THE FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates to information management systems, and more particularly to a system and method for managing litigation information.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONCurrently, it is common practice in the field of litigation to maintain litigation documents, such as pleadings and correspondence, in folders, books, binders, and other similar paper-based organizational tools. In large litigations, multiple binders are used to store each category of litigation documents, and it becomes difficult and time-consuming to locate particular documents. There are a few computer-based tools that assist in the organization and storage of litigation documents, such as “Blaze” from Summation Legal Technologies, Inc., and “ProLaw” from ProLaw Software, Inc. Computer-based tools such as these typically store litigation information in a database that must be queried by a user to obtain desired information. Queries may identify a date range, or a document description, or similar identification data, and often result in the return of multiple “hits”. The returned hits occasionally identify the desired information, but often also identify a great deal of irrelevant information. A user must typically enter multiple queries and sort through irrelevant information before locating the desired information.
It would be desirable for a litigation management system to provide an easy-to-use interface that provides a logical relationship between litigation information, and allows a user to quickly locate and view desired litigation information.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONOne form of the present invention provides a computer-based user interface for accessing litigation information associated with at least one litigation case. A home page includes a first plurality of user-selectable hyperlinks. Each hyperlink in the first plurality of hyperlinks identifies a category of litigation information. The interface also includes a plurality of web pages. Each web page is associated with one of the hyperlinks in the first plurality of hyperlinks. Each web page provides litigation information related to the category identified by the hyperlink associated with the web page. Each web page is displayed in response to selection of the hyperlink associated with the web page.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is contact information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for contact information includes contact information for opposing counsel, the court handling the litigation case, and clients.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is docket information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for docket information includes a plurality of docket entries. Each docket entry includes a description of a litigation action and a due date for the action. The web page associated with the hyperlink for docket information includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of litigation documents associated with docket entries.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is correspondence information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for correspondence information includes a plurality of correspondence entries. Each correspondence entry includes a description of a correspondence and a date of the correspondence. The web page associated with the hyperlink for correspondence information includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of correspondence.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is pleadings information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for pleadings information includes a plurality of pleadings entries. Each pleadings entry including a description of a pleading. Each pleadings entry further includes a pleadings number, a date, and a source identifier identifying a source of the described pleading. The web page associated with the hyperlink for pleadings information includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of pleadings documents.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is rules information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for rules information includes a plurality of hyperlinks to legal information sources relevant to the litigation case.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is patent information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for patent information includes information regarding at least one patent involved in the litigation case. The web page associated with the hyperlink for patent information includes a hyperlink to an electronic copy of the at least one patent, and a hyperlink to an electronic copy of a file history of the at least one patent.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is discovery information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for discovery information includes a plurality of discovery entries. Each discovery entry includes a description of a discovery document. The discovery entries further include a date of service and a due date. The web page associated with the hyperlink for discovery information includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of discovery documents. The discovery entries are grouped into subcategories including plaintiffs discovery, defendant's discovery, and depositions.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is expert information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for expert information includes information regarding experts used in the litigation case. The web page associated with the hyperlink for expert information includes a plurality of hyperlinks to electronic copies of documents related to experts. The plurality of hyperlinks to electronic copies of documents related to experts includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of expert reports and expert depositions.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is court orders, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for court orders includes a plurality of court order entries. Each court order entry includes a description of a court order. The court order entries further include pleadings numbers and dates associated with the court orders. The web page associated with the hyperlink for court orders includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of court orders.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is trial information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for trial information includes a plurality of hyperlinks to electronic copies of documents to be submitted to a court for trial. The plurality of hyperlinks to electronic copies of documents to be submitted to a court for trial include hyperlinks to electronic copies of trial briefs, motions in limine, jury instructions, witness lists, and exhibit lists. The plurality of hyperlinks to electronic copies of documents to be submitted to a court for trial further include hyperlinks to electronic copies of designations of deposition testimony and offers of settlement.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is motions, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for motions includes a plurality of descriptions of motions and a plurality of hyperlinks to electronic copies of described motions.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is copy information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for copy information allows a user to specify a list of individuals that are provided a copy of a specified litigation document. The web page associated with the hyperlink for copy information allows a user to specify a manner in which the specified litigation document is provided to each of the individuals in the specified list.
In one embodiment, one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is client information, and the web page associated with the hyperlink for client information provides access to case budget information, conflict information and/or case objective information. The web page associated with the hyperlink for client information includes a plurality of hyperlinks to client information.
In one embodiment, the user interface includes a search feature that allows a user to specify a search for litigation information related to the litigation case.
In one embodiment, the home page includes a status information identifier that identifies at least one litigation task that is due by a specified date. In one embodiment, the status information identifier is included on each of the plurality of web pages.
In one embodiment, each of the plurality of web pages includes the first plurality of user-selectable hyperlinks.
In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of web pages includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of litigation documents. The electronic copies of litigation documents include electronic copies of correspondence and pleadings. In one embodiment, the electronic copies of litigation documents are stored on a plurality of computers. In one embodiment, the plurality of computers include at least one local computer and at least one remote computer that is located offsite from the at least one local computer. In one embodiment, the at least one remote computer includes a first remote computer located offsite from the at least on local computer in a first location, and a second remote computer located offsite from the at least one local computer in a second location.
In one embodiment, the categories of litigation information identified by the first plurality of hyperlinks include at least one subcategory that is logically related to one of the other categories.
In one embodiment, the computer-based user interface is storable on a portable computer-readable medium. In one embodiment, the computer-based user interface further comprises electronic copies of litigation documents referenced by the plurality of web pages.
In one embodiment, the computer-based user interface is stored on a CD-ROM.
In one embodiment, the computer-based user interface is stored on a corporate intranet.
In one embodiment, the home page includes a user-selectable hyperlink for executing an application program. In one embodiment, the application program is a document management system. In one embodiment, the document management system is Summation Blaze.
One form of the present invention provides a litigation management system for managing and providing access to litigation information stored on a computer network. The system includes a server computer coupled to the computer network for storing user interface information. The user interface information includes a primary page having a plurality of links to a plurality of secondary pages. The primary page identifies a plurality of categories and subcategories of litigation information. Each subcategory is logically related to at least one of the categories. The secondary pages provide litigation information related to the identified categories and subcategories. A client computer coupled to the computer network displays a user interface based on user interface information received from the server computer. The client computer is configured to access the plurality of secondary pages via the user interface.
In one embodiment, one of the categories is pleadings information, and the subcategories include discovery information, court orders, and motions. The litigation information provided by the secondary pages related to the subcategories of discovery information, court orders, and motions is also provided by the secondary page related to the category of pleadings information.
In one embodiment, the plurality of categories and subcategories include at least a subset of the following: Contact information, docket information, case information, correspondence information, pleadings information, legal references information, discovery information, expert information, orders information, trial information, motions, and copy information.
In one embodiment, one of the plurality of categories is patent information.
In one embodiment, the primary page includes a status information identifier that identifies at least one litigation task that is due by a specified date. In one embodiment, the status information identifier is included on each of the plurality of secondary pages.
In one embodiment, each of the plurality of secondary pages includes at least a subset of the plurality of links.
In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of secondary pages includes links to electronic copies of litigation documents. In one embodiment, the electronic copies of litigation documents are stored on a plurality of computers coupled to the computer network.
In one embodiment, the primary page includes a user-selectable hyperlink for executing an application program. In one embodiment, the application program is a document management system. In one embodiment, the document management system is Summation Blaze.
Another form of the present invention provides a method of managing litigation information for at least one lawsuit. The method includes storing litigation information for the lawsuit on a computer network. User interface data is stored on the computer network. A user interface is generated and displayed based on the stored user interface data. The user interface provides a plurality of links to the litigation information. Each of the plurality of links corresponds to one category of a plurality of categories of litigation information. At least one of the categories of litigation information is a subcategory of at least one of the other categories of litigation information. Selection data provided by a user is received. The selection data identifies a first link in the plurality of links. Litigation information related to the category corresponding to the first link is displayed.
In one embodiment, the plurality of categories of litigation information include at least a subset of the following: Contact information, docket information, case information, correspondence information, pleadings information, legal references information, discovery information, expert information, orders information, trial information, motions, and copy information.
In one embodiment, the displayed litigation information includes at least a subset of the plurality of links.
In one embodiment, the displayed litigation information includes links to electronic copies of litigation documents related to the category corresponding to the first link.
In one embodiment, the litigation information for the lawsuit is stored on a plurality of computers coupled to the computer network.
In one embodiment, the user interface data is stored on a server computer coupled to the computer network and is accessible to client computers via communication with the server computer.
In one embodiment, the user interface data is stored in a memory of at least one client computer coupled to the computer network.
In one embodiment, the user interface data is stored on a CD-ROM of the at least one client computer.
Another form of the present invention provides a computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions for performing a method of accessing litigation information for at least one lawsuit. The method includes generating a primary display screen including a plurality of user-selectable litigation categories. The plurality of user-selectable litigation categories includes at least one user-selectable litigation subcategory that is logically related to at least one of the other litigation categories. Category selection information from a user identifying one of the user-selectable litigation categories is received. A secondary display screen including litigation information related to the identified litigation category is generated. The secondary display screen includes user-selectable links to electronic copies of litigation documents related to the identified litigation category.
In one embodiment, document selection information from a user identifying one of the user-selectable links to electronic copies of litigation documents is received. A display is generated of an electronic copy of a litigation document corresponding to the identified link.
In one embodiment, the plurality of user-selectable litigation categories includes pleadings information, and the at least one user-selectable litigation subcategory includes discovery information. The litigation information related to the discovery information subcategory is a subset of the litigation information related to the pleadings category.
In one embodiment, the plurality of user-selectable litigation categories includes pleadings information, and the at least one user-selectable litigation subcategory includes motions. The litigation information related to the motions subcategory is a subset of the litigation information related to the pleadings category.
In one embodiment, the plurality of user-selectable litigation categories includes pleadings information, and the at least one user-selectable litigation subcategory includes court orders. The litigation information related to the court orders subcategory is a subset of the litigation information related to the pleadings category.
Another form of the present invention provides a litigation management system for managing and providing access to litigation information stored on a computer network. At least one server computer coupled to the computer network stores user interface information. The user interface information includes a client login page; a plurality of litigation case selection pages, with each litigation case selection page including at least one hyperlink identifying at least one litigation case associated with a particular client; a plurality of litigation case home pages, with each litigation case home page associated with one of the identified litigation cases, and each litigation case home page including a first plurality of hyperlinks, wherein each hyperlink in the first plurality identifies a category of litigation information; and a plurality of web pages, with each web page being associated with one of the hyperlinks in the first plurality of hyperlinks of one of the home pages, and each web page providing case specific litigation information related to the category identified by the hyperlink associated with the web page. A client computer coupled to the computer network displays a user interface based on user interface information received from the server computer. The client computer is configured to access at least a subset of the plurality of web pages via the user interface.
In one embodiment, the user interface information further includes a plurality of topics pages. Each topics page is associated with a particular client and includes a plurality of hyperlinks identifying a plurality of topics. The plurality of hyperlinks identifying a plurality of topics includes a litigation hyperlink. Each litigation case selection page is associated with a litigation hyperlink on one of the plurality of topics pages.
In one embodiment, the litigation hyperlink is associated with active litigation cases, and the plurality of hyperlinks identifying a plurality of topics further includes an inactive litigation hyperlink associated with inactive litigation cases.
In one embodiment, the plurality of hyperlinks identifying a plurality of topics further comprises a competitors hyperlink that provides a link to information about a particular client's competitors.
In one embodiment, the plurality of hyperlinks identifying a plurality of topics further comprises a prosecution hyperlink that provides a link to information about a particular client's intellectual property applications.
Another form of the present invention provides a method of accessing litigation information associated with at least one litigation case. A home page including a first plurality of user-selectable hyperlinks is displayed. The hyperlinks in the first plurality identify a plurality of categories and subcategories of litigation information. Each subcategory is logically related to at least one of the categories. A first one of the plurality of hyperlinks is selected. A web page associated with the first one of the hyperlinks is displayed. The web page provides litigation information related to a category identified by the first one of the hyperlinks.
Another form of the present invention provides a user interface for accessing litigation information associated with at least one litigation case. The user interface includes a home page including a correspondence hyperlink and a pleadings hyperlink. A correspondence web page is associated with the correspondence hyperlink. The correspondence web page includes a plurality of correspondence entries. Each correspondence entry includes identifying information for a correspondence related to the at least one litigation case. A pleadings web page is associated with the pleadings hyperlink. The pleadings web page includes a plurality of pleading entries. Each pleading entry includes identifying information for a pleading related to the at least one litigation case.
In one embodiment, the correspondence web page includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of correspondence related to the at least one litigation case.
In one embodiment, the pleadings web page includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of pleading documents.
In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.
One form of the present invention provides a system and method for the management of litigation documents and information. In one form of the invention, the term “litigation” as used herein means a contested legal matter with an adversary. One preferred embodiment provides a litigation management system for intellectual property litigation, which can include patent, copyright, trademark, and/or trade secret related litigation. In one embodiment described herein, the invention is a web-based litigation management system. The information for the system may be stored in many different kinds of formats and at many different locations, and can include electronic documents with electronic signatures. Information for the system may exist as an image file stored on a local server or optical disk, or reside as an HTML file on a remote server and be accessed by TCP/IP protocol or other communications protocol. Other file types are obviously possible, including multimedia. One form of the litigation management system of the present invention manages internal documents (e.g., documents stored within a law firm computer system), and external documents (e.g., documents stored on a computer system outside of the law firm), including scanned copies of signed, original documents, which may be stored locally, or at a remote location. In one embodiment, the litigation information is accessed through a secure Internet connection via a web-type user interface.
Users may also connect to the communications system using client computers 104, which are connected to communications network 106. In one embodiment, communications network 106 is a LAN. Alternatively, communications network 106 can be a WAN. LAN 106 is connected to Internet 101 through a proxy server, such as proxy server 105. In this arrangement, client computers 104 access resources located on Internet 101 by sending a service request to proxy server 105. Proxy server 105 in turn forwards the service request to a destination on Internet 101. A response to the request is received by proxy server 105, which forwards the response to the requesting client computer 104.
Server computers 102 receive service requests from client computers 103 and 104, and generate appropriate responses. In one embodiment, the communications between server computers 102, and client computers 103 and 104, utilize the standard hypertext transport protocol (HTTP) communications protocol. The responses generated and returned to client computers 103 and 104 are typically in the form of a web page specified in hypertext markup language (HTML) that may be displayed to the user utilizing a web browser such as MICROSOFT INTERNET EXPLORER or NETSCAPE NAVIGATOR.
Server computers 102 store information such as database information or other electronic data. Data may be stored in a distributed manner across one or more of server computers 102. In one embodiment of the present invention, a web site is programmed to access litigation-related data stored in server computers 102. Client computers 103 and 104 include programs, such as browsers, that allow a user to access information stored on the web site and to navigate around the web. Generally, browsers employ a graphical user interface displayed on a monitor of a computer 103 or 104. A user of a computer 103 or 104 utilizes a mouse or other input device to interact with the graphical user interface, access servers 102, and perform data acquisition, data transmission, and navigation functions via the graphical user interface.
Computing device 110 further includes a hard disk drive 123 for reading from and writing to a hard disk 125, a magnetic disk drive 124 for reading from or writing to a removable magnetic disk 126, and an optical disk drive 128 for reading from or writing to a removable optical disk 129, such as a CD ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD), or other optical media. Hard disk drive 123, magnetic disk drive 124, and optical disk drive 128 are connected to system bus 116 by a hard disk drive interface 130, a magnetic disk drive interface 132, and an optical drive interface 134, respectively. Drives 123, 124 and 128 and their associated computer-readable media provide nonvolatile storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, programs, and other data for computer system 108.
Although the exemplary computer system 108 described herein employs a hard disk 125, a removable magnetic disk 126, and a removable optical disk 129, other types of computer-readable media capable of storing data can be used in the exemplary system 108. Examples of other types of computer-readable mediums that can be used in the exemplary operating environment 108 include magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, Bernoulli cartridges, random access memories (RAMs), and read only memories (ROMs).
A number of program modules may be stored on hard disk 125, magnetic disk 126, optical disk 129, ROM 118 and RAM 120, including an operating system 136, one or more application programs 138, other program modules 140, and program data 142. A user may enter commands and information into computer system 108 through input devices, such as a keyboard 144 and mouse 146 or other pointing device. Examples of other input devices include a microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, and scanner. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit 112 through a serial port interface 150 that is coupled to system bus 116. Nevertheless, these input devices may also be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, game port, or a universal serial bus (USB). A monitor 152 or other type of display device is also connected to system bus 116 via an interface, such as a video adapter 154. In addition to monitor 152, computer systems typically include other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers and printers.
Computer system 108 operates in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as remote computer 156. Remote computer 156 may be a computer system, a server, a router, a network PC, a peer device or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described above relative to computer system 108. The network connections include a LAN 158 and a WAN 160. Such networking environments are commonplace in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet.
When used in a LAN networking environment, computer system 108 is connected to LAN 158 through a network interface or adapter 162. When used in a WAN networking environment, computer system 108 typically includes a modem 164 or other means for establishing communications over a WAN 160, such as the Internet. Modem 164, which may be internal or external to computing device 110, is connected to system bus 116 via serial port interface 150. In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to computer system 108, or portions thereof, may be stored in a remote memory storage device. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary, and other means of establishing a communications link between computers may be used, including wireless technologies.
A computing device, such as computer system 102, 103, 104, or 105, typically includes at least some form of computer-readable media. Computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer system 102, 103, 104, or 105. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable media might comprise computer storage media and communication media.
Computer storage media includes volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired information and that can be accessed by a computer system 102, 103, 104, or 105.
Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared, and other wireless media. Combinations of any of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media. Computer-readable media may also be referred to as computer program product.
Web pages 202C-202O are accessible via hyperlinks on home page 202A in one form of the present invention. In one embodiment, each of web pages 202C-202O corresponds to a particular category of litigation information, and provides hyperlinks to information within that category. For example, trial notebook web page 202M corresponds to a “trial information” category, and includes hyperlinks to web pages 202P-202X. Web pages 202P-202X provide trial information, such as trial briefs, trial motions, jury instructions, witness lists, exhibit lists, depositions and offers of settlement. In one embodiment, web pages 202P-202X include links to PDF files that are generated by scanning trial documents. Like web page 202M, each of web pages 202C-202L and 202N-202O also include hyperlinks to additional web pages (not shown) in one form of the present invention. In one embodiment, each of web pages 202C-202O includes hyperlinks to each of the other web pages 202C-202O on the same organizational level in
Information for web pages 202 may be specified in a variety of formats or combinations of formats, including but not limited to HTML, PDF, TIFF and JPG. Web pages 202 provide a user interface that allows a user to quickly and efficiently locate and view information related to a specified litigation. Web pages 202 are also referred to as user interface 202. In addition to providing hyperlinks to other web pages 202, any of web pages 202 may also include “short cuts” or “jump links” that initiate the execution of program steps to perform tasks other than the retrieval of documents. For example, user interface 202 may initiate a search. The search could include text within the user interface or text generated through an optical character recognition (OCR) function on underlying data. Scanned documents, and text files generated by performing OCR on the scanned documents, may be stored and organized in one or more databases that are accessible through user interface 202. User interface 202 may also provide a portal to other databases and information repositories. User interface 202 may execute other application programs, such as Summation Blaze®, or a graphics program that illustrates the relationship of multiple patents in a flow chart or other organizational chart with hyperlinks to the documents referenced. Other application programs may also be executed through user interface 202.
In one form of the present invention, litigation management system 200 employs security features that permit restricted access to litigation data. For example, certain information in litigation management system 200 may be designated as being accessible only by attorneys or only by clients. Similarly, certain information may be designated as being modifiable only by certain individuals (e.g., a client may be able to update a client page, while the attorneys cannot modify the client page, nor even access the client page if such access restrictions are desired). Litigation management system 200 may also initiate program code for performing steps relating to creating, revising, and updating the data accessed by the litigation management system 200. Data may be provided to litigation management system 200 by the user or retrieved from system 200 by the user. Various methods of creating the logical connections between the retrieval of data and the submission of data may be employed. Litigation management system 200 may initiate another application program, and distribute information via various communications protocols (e.g., SMTP or other email protocol, wireless application protocol or WAP, pager, etc.), or take other actions.
In one embodiment, web pages 202 are executed by a browser such as Internet Explorer that interfaces with an email client, such as Microsoft Outlook and Exchange, and a server. The browser executes HTML or XML code that accesses the information through a link. Typically, the link accesses data stored as an image, text, html, or other file. These files may include links to data as well. Web pages 202 include links to other web pages 202 and documents stored as PDF files. Links also initiate email communications to a group or individual and may generate a form or a word processing document. User interface 202 and the underlying litigation data may be embodied in a portable medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD-ROM or resident on a server (e.g., a server that is part of a corporate intranet), or both. Storing user interface 202 and the underlying litigation data on a portable computer-readable medium allows the information to be transported, confidentially provided to clients, and/or used in a courtroom or during a deposition, where Internet access may not be available. Alternatively, user interface 202 and the underlying litigation data may be accessed remotely via the Internet or other communication method. Litigation management system 200 also includes a method of updating and distributing the information. Users may be notified of changes to the content or other events such as docket dates or reminders of docket dates. Events may be initiated by the users or the litigation management system 200 itself.
In one embodiment, heading information 302 identifies the law firm handling the litigation and using litigation management system 200. In one embodiment, status information 304 is a marquee that scrolls across the top of each web page 202. Status information 304 identifies one or more litigation tasks that must be completed by a specified date. In the embodiment shown, status information 304 indicates that a Response to the Plaintiff's Interrogatories is due on Jan. 2, 2001. Status information 304 may be customized, and periodically updated to indicate current tasks to be completed for a litigation matter. Status information 304 may also provide other information regarding a litigation matter.
Page identifier 306 identifies the web page 202 currently being viewed by the user. In
In one embodiment, case caption information 310 includes typical case information, including identification of the plaintiffs and the defendants, case number, and the judge or judges assigned to the case. In one embodiment, attorney contact information 312 includes information regarding the attorneys handling the case, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and facsimile numbers.
In one embodiment, contact information categories include, but are not limited to: Internal case information, court information, judicial assignment information, plaintiff(s) information, attorney for plaintiff(s) information, defendant(s) information, attorney for defendant(s) information, and local counsel information. In one embodiment, the above contact information categories include, but are not limited to, the following information: names, addresses, telephone numbers (firm, direct, cellular, other), facsimile numbers, email addresses, web site addresses, hyperlinks to biographical information on a website, room/suite numbers, and links to pages in other web sites that contain pertinent information.
In the embodiment shown in
Judicial assignment information 322 also includes judicial assignment links 324. Judicial assignment links 324 include hyperlinks to various court related web pages, including web pages that provide information about standing orders, trial procedures, calendars, reference guides, common case forms, and general court information. Judicial assignment links 324 also include a hyperlink to “PACER,” which stands for Public Access to Court Electronic Records. PACER provides access to case and docket information stored in databases maintained by various courts.
Plaintiff information 326 includes the names, addresses, phone numbers, facsimile numbers, e-mail addresses, and websites of the plaintiffs. Plaintiffs' attorneys information 328 includes information about counsel for the plaintiffs, including attorney names, hyperlinks to biographical information, hyperlinks to the attorneys' law firm, address information, phone numbers, and facsimile numbers. Defendant information 330 includes the names, addresses, phone numbers, facsimile numbers, e-mail addresses, and websites of the defendants. Defendants' attorneys information 332 includes information about counsel for the defendants, including attorney names, hyperlinks to biographical information, hyperlinks to the attorneys' law firm, address information, phone numbers, facsimile numbers, and attorney identification numbers. Local counsel information 334 includes information about local counsel for the defendants, including attorney names, hyperlinks to biographical information, hyperlinks to the attorneys' law firm, address information, phone numbers, facsimile numbers, and attorney identification numbers.
Docket table 350 includes four columns 352A-352D and a plurality of entries 356A-356N (collectively referred to as entries 356). Column 352B includes actions that have been taken or that need to be taken in a litigation. In one embodiment, actions under column 352B include, but are not limited to, summons and complaints, answers and counterclaims, status reports, hearings, discovery requests and responses, discovery deadlines, deadlines for motions, other pretrial or trial deadlines, and any other action relevant to the litigation. Actions specified under column 352B may include one or more hyperlinks to information associated with the action. For example, in entry 356A, the action specified in column 352B is “Complaint,” and the action is underlined indicating that the action is a hyperlink. In one embodiment, if a user selects the “Complaint” hyperlink in entry 356A, an electronic copy of the complaint is displayed on the user's computer. Similarly, a user may select any other hyperlink in docket table 350 and view an electronic copy of the document identified by the hyperlink, or view additional information about the hyperlinked item.
Column 352A includes dates that actions specified in column 352B were taken, or dates that actions specified in column 352B are to be completed. Column 352C indicates whether an action specified in column 352B was completed, and may also include the date the action was completed. Column 352C may also include other information, such as an explanation why an action was not taken, like that shown in entry 356F. Column 352D includes miscellaneous information regarding entries 356, including a basis for an action, comments regarding an action, an identification of the person or persons who have been assigned an action, or other miscellaneous information.
In one embodiment, client information web page 202E includes hyperlinks 360A-360C. “Case Budget” hyperlink 360A provides a link to budget information for the case. In one embodiment, the budget information includes a budget comparison feature that compares invoices to the case budget and generates a report based on the comparison. “Client Agreement Letter” hyperlink 360B provides a link to an electronic copy of a client agreement letter for the case. “Conflict Documentation” hyperlink 360C provides a link to information related to conflicts for the case.
Correspondence web page 202F includes month hyperlinks 370 and correspondence table 372. When a user selects one of month hyperlinks 370, descriptions of correspondence for the month and the year identified by the selected hyperlink are displayed at the top of correspondence table 372. Correspondence table 372 includes columns 374A and 374B, and a plurality of entries 376. Column 374B includes a description of correspondence associated with a particular litigation. Column 374A identifies dates of the correspondence listed in column 374B. In one embodiment, column 374B includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of correspondence identified therein.
Pleadings index web page 202G includes first pleadings index table 400. First pleadings index table 400 includes first index heading 401, columns 402A-402D, and a plurality of entries 404. Column 402A includes a pleadings number for each entry 404. Column 402B includes a description of each pleading. Column 402C includes a date for each pleading. Column 402D identifies the party that generated a pleading, such as plaintiffs, defendants, and the court. In one embodiment, column 402B includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of the pleadings identified therein. Pleadings index web page 202G may include multiple index tables 400, as indicated by second index heading 406, which is a heading for a second index table (not shown).
URL 456A specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “Local Rules” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456B specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “Fed. R. Civ. P.” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456C specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “Fed. R. Evid.” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456D specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “Patent Law” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456E specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “28 U.S.C” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456F specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “U.S.C” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456G specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “MPEP” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456H specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “USPTO” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H. URL 456I specifies the location that the user will jump to when the “PACER” hyperlink 420 is selected from rules web page 202H.
It will be understood that URLs 456A-456I are merely exemplary, and that the information identified by hyperlinks 420 may be accessed from other locations, including a local server (e.g., a server on a law firm's intranet). Index icon 458 represents home page 202A.
Patents web page 202I includes patent heading information 470, and hyperlinks 472A-472B (collectively referred to as hyperlinks 472). In one embodiment, patent heading information 470 includes the serial number, filing date, inventor names, patent number, issue date, and expiration date of the patent in suit. Patent heading information 470 may also include other information about the patent in suit. Hyperlink 472A provides a link to the file history of the patent identified in patent heading information 470. Hyperlink 472B provides a link to the patent identified in patent heading information 470. Hyperlinks 472 may also include additional links to other information regarding the patent in suit. In one embodiment, the patent and the file history associated with hyperlinks 472A-472B are stored locally as images, text, html, or other file type. It will be understood that patents web page 202I may include information for multiple patents, including prior art patents involved in the litigation. Web page 202I may also or alternatively include information regarding trademarks or copyrights involved in the litigation.
Discovery web page 202J includes plaintiffs discovery table 502, defendant's discovery table 510, depositions table 520, and hyperlinks 500A-500D. A user can scroll up/down or page up/down through tables 502, 510 and 520. Selecting “Top of Page” hyperlink 500A brings the user back to the top of the first table displayed in discovery web page 202J, which in this embodiment is plaintiffs discovery table 502. Selecting “Plaintiffs Discovery” hyperlink 500B causes a jump to the top of plaintiffs discovery table 502. Selecting “Defendant's Discovery” hyperlink 500C causes a jump to the top of defendant's discovery table 510. Selecting “Depositions” hyperlink 500D causes a jump to the top of depositions table 520.
Plaintiffs discovery table 502 includes columns 504A-504E, and a plurality of entries 506. Column 504B includes descriptions of the plaintiffs discovery requests and the defendant's discovery responses. In one embodiment, descriptions in column 504B also include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the described discovery documents. The discovery documents may be stored locally as image files or other file types, and accessed through the hyperlinks in plaintiffs discovery table 502. Column 504A includes dates for discovery entries described in column 504B. Column 504C includes dates of service of discovery information described in column 504B. Column 504D includes due dates for discovery information described in column 504B. Column 504E includes dates of receipt/service for the defendant's responses to the plaintiffs discovery requests. For entries 506 that correspond to defendant's discovery responses, the date of service of the responses are provided in column 504C, rather than in column 504E (i.e., “N/A” or not applicable).
Defendant's discovery table 510 includes columns 512A-512E, and a plurality of entries 514. Column 512B includes descriptions of the defendant's discovery requests and the plaintiffs discovery responses. In one embodiment, descriptions in column 512B also include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the described discovery documents. The discovery documents may be stored locally as image files or other file types, and accessed through the hyperlinks in defendant's discovery table 510. Column 512A includes dates for discovery entries described in column 512B. Column 512C includes dates of service of discovery information described in column 512B. Column 512D includes due dates for discovery information described in column 512B. Column 512E includes dates of receipt/service for the plaintiffs responses to the defendant's discovery requests. For entries 514 that correspond to defendant's discovery requests, the date of service of the requests are provided in column 512C, rather than in column 512E (i.e., “NA” or not applicable).
Depositions table 520 includes columns 522A-522E, and a plurality of entries 524. Column 522B includes descriptions of deponents and the location of depositions. Column 522A includes dates for depositions. Column 522C includes dates that deposition notices were served. Column 522D includes identifications of the parties that noticed depositions. Column 522E includes identifications of court reporters for depositions. In one embodiment, depositions table 520 includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of deposition transcripts, and/or hyperlinks to other related information, including links to audio/video recordings of depositions.
Experts web page 202K includes experts table 540, plaintiffs experts information table 556, and defendant's experts information table 562. Experts table 540 includes columns 542A and 542B. Column 542A includes “Plaintiff's Expert(s)” hyperlink 544, plaintiff's expert contact information 548, and plaintiff's expert summary information 552. Column 542B includes “Defendant's Expert(s)” hyperlink 546, defendant's expert contact information 550, and defendant's expert summary information 554. Selecting “Plaintiffs Expert(s)” hyperlink 544 causes a jump to the top of plaintiffs experts information table 556. Selecting “Defendant's Expert(s)” hyperlink 546 causes a jump to the top of defendant's experts information table 562. Contact information 548 and 550 includes standard contact information for each expert in a litigation, such as names, addresses, phone numbers and facsimile numbers. Expert summary information 552 and 554 includes information regarding each expert in a litigation, such as a hyperlinks to curriculum vitas, descriptions of the scope of expert testimony, descriptions and hyperlinks to documents transmitted to experts, and any other pertinent information.
Plaintiffs experts information table 556 includes columns 558A-558C, and a plurality of entries 560. Column 558A includes a pleadings index number for each entry 560. Column 558B includes descriptions of documents and other information related to the plaintiff's expert(s). In one embodiment, descriptions in column 558B also include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the described discovery documents or other information. In one form of the invention, hyperlinks are provided in table 556 for expert reports, supplemental reports, deposition notices, deposition transcripts and/or video deposition clips, deposition designations, and any other pertinent information related to the plaintiff's expert(s). Column 558C includes dates for information described in column 558B.
Defendant's experts information table 562 includes columns 564A-564C, and a plurality of entries 566. Column 564A includes a pleadings index number for each entry 566. Column 564B includes descriptions of documents and other information related to the defendant's expert(s). In one embodiment, descriptions in column 564B also include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the described discovery documents or other information. In one form of the invention, hyperlinks are provided in table 562 for expert reports, supplemental reports, deposition notices, deposition transcripts and/or video deposition clips, deposition designations, and any other pertinent information related to the defendant's expert(s). Column 564C includes dates for information described in column 564B.
Hyperlink 620A provides a link to the plaintiffs trial brief. Hyperlink 620B provides a link to the defendant's trial brief. Hyperlink 620C provides a link to the plaintiffs motions in limine. Hyperlink 620D provides a link to the defendant's motions in limine. Hyperlink 620E provides a link to the plaintiffs jury instructions. Hyperlink 620F provides a link to the defendant's jury instructions. Hyperlink 620G provides a link to the plaintiffs witness list. Hyperlink 620H provides a link to the defendant's witness list. Hyperlink 620I provides a link to the plaintiffs exhibit list. Hyperlink 620J provides a link to the defendant's exhibit list. Hyperlink 620K provides a link to the plaintiffs deposition designations. Hyperlink 620L provides a link to the defendant's deposition designations. Hyperlink 620M provides a link to a supplemental prior art notice for patent litigation. Hyperlink 620N provides a link to offers of settlement. Hyperlink 620O provides a link to special verdict forms. Hyperlink 620P provides a link to Voir Dire questions.
Hyperlinks may also be provided to other types of litigation information in trial notebook web page 202M. A user can scroll up/down and page up/down through the information displayed in trial notebook web page 202M. Selecting “Top of Page” hyperlink 622 brings the user to the top of the displayed information.
Motions web page 202N includes hyperlinks 640 and 644, motion definitions 642 and 646, dispositive motions table 648, hyperlink 654, non-dispositive motions table 656, and hyperlink 664. A user can scroll up/down or page up/down through tables 648 and 656. Selecting “Top of Page” hyperlink 654 or 664 brings the user back to the top of the first table displayed in motions web page 202N, which in this embodiment is dispositive motions table 648. Definition 642 includes a description of the types of motions that are typically classified as dispositive motions, and that should be included in table 648. Definition 646 includes a description of the types of motions that are typically classified as non-dispositive motions, and that should be included in table 656. Selecting “Dispositive Motions” hyperlink 640 causes a jump to the top of dispositive motions table 648. Selecting “Non-Dispositive Motions” hyperlink 644 causes a jump to the top of non-dispositive motions table 656.
Dispositive motions table 648 includes columns 650A-650D, and a plurality of entries 652. Column 650A includes a pleadings index number for each entry 652. Column 650B includes descriptions of dispositive motions and related information. In one embodiment, descriptions in column 650B also include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the described dispositive motions and related information. The hyperlinked documents may be stored locally as image files or other file types, and accessed through the hyperlinks in dispositive motions table 648. Column 650C includes dates for dispositive motion entries described in column 650B. Column 650D includes an identification of the party (e.g., plaintiff or defendant) associated with each dispositive motion entry described in column 650B.
Non-dispositive motions table 656 includes columns 658A-658D, and a plurality of entries 660. Column 658A includes a pleadings index number for each entry 660. Column 658B includes descriptions of non-dispositive motions and related information. In one embodiment, descriptions in column 658B also include hyperlinks, such as hyperlinks 662, to electronic copies of the described non-dispositive motions and related information. The hyperlinked documents may be stored locally as image files or other file types, and accessed through the hyperlinks in non-dispositive motions table 656. Column 658C includes dates for non-dispositive motion entries described in column 658B. Column 658D includes an identification of the party (e.g., plaintiff or defendant) associated with each non-dispositive motion entry described in column 658B.
BCC list web page 202O, which is also referred to as copy web page 202O, allows a user to identify the individuals who were provided a copy of a particular litigation document, such as a pleading, an email, a letter or other correspondence, or any other litigation document, whether electronic or paper-based. In one form of the present invention, BCC list web page 202O acts as a “form” that is filled in by the user, and then printed for document retention or other purposes. In one embodiment, BCC list web page 202O includes attorney names list 700, attorney email addresses list 702, local counsel email addresses list 704, email identification information 706, client address information 708, client delivery information 710, local counsel address information 712, local counsel delivery information 714, and hyperlinks 716 and 718.
If a user wishes to identify the attorneys that were provided a particular email communication, the user can locate each such attorney in attorney names list 700, identify the corresponding email addresses of the attorneys in attorney email address list 702 or in local counsel email address list 704, and then click on the email addresses corresponding to the attorneys that were provided the communication. Email identification information 706 allows a user to specify identification information for the email communication, including sender information 706A and date information 706B.
Client address information 708 includes names and address information for the client or clients. To indicate that a client was provided a particular litigation document, a user identifies the method of delivery of the document in client delivery information 710. Client delivery information 710 includes checkboxes to indicate the method of delivery, including “first class mail” checkbox 710A, “overnight courier” checkbox 710B, “facsimile” checkbox 710C and “other” checkbox 710D. If a user selects “other” checkbox 710D, the user may also enter the specific method of delivery.
Local counsel address information 712 includes names and address information for local counsel. To indicate that local counsel was provided a particular litigation document, a user identifies the method of delivery of the document in local counsel delivery information 714. Local counsel delivery information 714 includes checkboxes to indicate the method of delivery, including “first class mail” checkbox 714A, “overnight courier” checkbox 714B, “facsimile” checkbox 714C and “email” checkbox 714D. If a user selects “email” checkbox 714D, the user may also select the email address or addresses of the individual or individuals that were provided the communication.
A user may generate a copy list, identifying each individual that received a litigation document, by selecting “Link to BCC Word Document” hyperlink 716. When hyperlink 716 is selected, the information provided by a user on BCC list web page 202O is imported into a Microsoft Word document, which may be printed and stored along with a particular litigation document. In one embodiment, the Microsoft Word document includes a copy list, identifying each individual that was provided a copy of a litigation document, and the manner in which the document was sent. Selecting “Top of Page” hyperlink 718, brings the user back to the top of BCC list web page 202O.
In addition to, or as an alternative to, printing out a copy list for each litigation document, copy information may be stored electronically. Copy information may also be generated automatically, rather than manually entering copy information for each litigation document.
In one embodiment, each of web pages 202A-202O includes a search hyperlink 308O. In one form of the invention, selection of search hyperlink 308O results in the display of a search dialog box (not shown) overlaid on the currently displayed web page 202. Persons of ordinary skill will recognize that various alternative methods of providing search functionality may be employed, including providing a separate search web page 202, or allowing search information to be entered directly on each of web pages 202. In one embodiment, the search dialog box allows a user to enter search terms and boolean logic. A list of information that matches the specified search terms is then displayed. Searches may be performed for litigation information stored locally, or may specify a broader scope, such as the entire Internet. In one embodiment, search queries may be directed to text contained in web pages 202, metadata, and/or text files generated from performing OCR on documents.
In one embodiment, heading information 302 identifies the law firm handling the litigation and using litigation management system 200, which is Merchant & Gould P.C. in the example shown. Heading information 302 also identifies the system as an “Elumis™ Litigation Management System.”
Page identifier 306 identifies the web page 202 currently being viewed by the user. In
In one embodiment, case caption information 310 includes typical case information, including identification of the plaintiffs and the defendants, case number, and the judge or judges assigned to the case. In one embodiment, attorney contact information 312 includes information regarding the attorneys handling the case, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and facsimile numbers.
Hyperlinks 308 allow a user to link to other web pages 202 within web site 200. Home page 202A′ includes additional hyperlinks 308P-308X, which were not illustrated in home page 202A (shown in
Correspondence web page 202F′ includes index number hyperlinks 730, index summary hyperlink 732, and four correspondence index tables 734. When a user selects one of index number hyperlinks 730, the user jumps to a corresponding one of the index tables 734. Each correspondence table 734 includes columns 736A-736C, and a plurality of entries 738. Column 736B includes a description of correspondence associated with a particular litigation. In one embodiment, column 736B includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of correspondence identified therein. Column 736A identifies dates of the correspondence listed in column 736B. Column 736C identifies authors of the correspondence listed in column 736B.
When a user selects “Index Summary” hyperlink 732, the user jumps to correspondence index summary 740. Correspondence index summary 740 includes date ranges for the correspondence in each of the correspondence index tables 734.
Pleadings index web page 202G′ includes index number hyperlinks 750, and three pleading index tables 752. When a user selects one of index number hyperlinks 750, the user jumps to a corresponding one of the pleading index tables 752. Each pleading index table 752 includes columns 754A-754D, and a plurality of entries 756. Column 754A includes a pleading number for each entry 756. Column 754B includes a description of each pleading. Column 754C includes a date for each pleading. Column 754D identifies the party that generated a pleading, such as plaintiffs, defendants, and the court. In one embodiment, column 754B includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of the pleadings identified therein.
Initial pleadings web page 202Y includes initial pleadings table 770. Initial pleadings table 770 includes columns 772A-772D, and a plurality of entries 774. Column 772A includes a pleading index number for each entry 774. Column 772B includes a description of each pleading. Column 772C includes a date for each pleading. Column 772D identifies the party that generated a pleading, such as plaintiffs, defendants, and the court. In one embodiment, column 772B includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of the pleadings identified therein.
Discovery web page 202J′ includes plaintiffs' discovery hyperlinks 790, defendants' discovery hyperlinks 792, miscellaneous discovery hyperlinks 794, Plaintiff's Interrogatories (with Responses) table 796, Plaintiffs Requests for Production of Documents and Things (with Responses) table 802, Plaintiff's Requests for Admissions (with Responses) table 808, Defendant's Interrogatories (with Responses) table 814, Defendant's Requests for Production of Documents and Things (with Responses) table 820, Defendant's Requests for Admissions (with Responses) table 826, Plaintiff's Deposition Log table 832, Defendant's Deposition Log table 838, Plaintiffs Disclosures table 844, Defendant's Disclosures table 850, Protective Orders table 856, and Privilege Logs table 862. Selecting one of “Plaintiffs Discovery” hyperlinks 790 causes a jump to a corresponding one of the plaintiffs discovery tables 796, 802, 808, 832, and 844. Selecting one of “Defendant's Discovery” hyperlinks 792 causes a jump to a corresponding one of the defendant's discovery tables 814, 820, 826, 838, and 850. Selecting miscellaneous discovery hyperlinks 794 causes a jump to corresponding ones of discovery tables 862, 832 and 838, 844 and 850, and 856.
Discovery tables 796, 802, 808, 814, 820, 826, 844, 850, 856, and 862, include columns 798A-798C, 804A-804C, 810A-810C, 816A-816C, 822A-822C, 828A-828C, 846A-846C, 852A-852C, 858A-858C, and 864A-864C, respectively, and include a plurality of entries 800, 806, 812, 818, 824, 830, 848, 854, 860, and 866, respectively. Columns 798B, 804B, 810B, 816B, 822B, 828B, 846B, 852B, 858B, and 864B, include discovery document descriptions, and, in one embodiment, also include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the described discovery documents. The discovery documents may be stored locally as image files or other file types, and accessed through the hyperlinks. Columns 798A, 804A, 810A, 816A, 822A, 828A, 846A, 852A, 858A, and 864A, include a pleading index number for each discovery entry. Columns 798C, 804C, 810C, 816C, 822C, 828C, 846C, 852C, 858C, and 864C, include a date for each discovery entry.
Deposition Log tables 832 and 838 include columns 834A-834D, and 840A-840D, respectively, and a plurality of entries 836, and 842, respectively. Columns 834A and 840A include deponent names. Columns 834B and 840B include date/time information for depositions. Columns 834C and 840C include location information for depositions. Columns 834D and 840D include identifications of court reporters for depositions. In one embodiment, depositions tables 832 and 838 include hyperlinks to electronic copies of deposition transcripts, and/or hyperlinks to other related information, including links to audio/video recordings of depositions.
Index of depositions web page 202Z includes Deponents Noticed by Plaintiff table 880 and Deponents Noticed by Defendant table 886. Tables 880 and 886 include columns 882A-882J, and 888A-888J, respectively, and include a plurality of entries 884, and 890, respectively. Columns 882A and 888A include deponent name information. Columns 882B and 888B include date information of when depositions were noticed. Columns 882C and 888C include date information of when depositions were taken. Columns 882D and 888D include information identifying the location of depositions. Columns 882E and 888E include information identifying court reporters for depositions, including name, address, and phone number. Columns 882F and 888F include information identifying whether deposition transcripts have been received, and if so, the date of receipt, and, in one embodiment, also include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the transcripts. Columns 882G and 888G include information identifying whether errata have been received, and if so, the date of receipt. Columns 882H and 888H include information identifying exhibit numbers of exhibits used in depositions. Columns 882I and 888I include information identifying whether depositions have been designated as confidential. Columns 882J and 888J include status information on depositions, such as started, pending, completed, objected, and withdrawn.
Motions in limine web page 202Q includes hyperlinks 920, Plaintiff's Motions in Limine table 922, and Defendant's Motions in Limine table 928. Selecting one of hyperlinks 920 causes a jump to the top of the corresponding Motions in Limine table 922 or 928. Motions in Limine tables 922 and 928 include columns 924A-924C, and 930A-930C, respectively, and a plurality of entries 926, and 932, respectively. Columns 924A and 930A include descriptions of motions in limine, and, in one embodiment, include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the described motions. Columns 924B and 930B include descriptions of papers filed by the opposing party in response to motions in limine, and, in one embodiment, include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the Response papers. Columns 924C and 930C include descriptions of papers filed in reply to response papers for motions in limine, and, in one embodiment, include hyperlinks to electronic copies of the Reply papers.
Jury instructions web page 202R includes hyperlinks 940, and jury instructions tables 942 and 948. Selecting one of hyperlinks 940 causes a jump to the top of the corresponding jury instructions table 942 or 948. Jury instructions tables 942 and 948 include columns 944A-944C, and 950A-950C, respectively, and a plurality of entries 946, and 952, respectively. Columns 944A and 950A include a pleading index number for each entry. Columns 944B and 950B include a description of each jury instructions entry. Columns 944C and 950C include a date for each jury instructions entry.
Witness list web page 202S includes witness list tables 960 and 966. Witness list tables 960 and 966 include columns 962A-962C, and 968A-968C, respectively, and a plurality of entries 964, and 970, respectively. Columns 962A and 968A include a pleading index number for each entry. Columns 962B and 968B include a description of each witness list entry. Columns 962C and 968C include a date for each witness list entry.
Exhibit list web page 202T includes exhibit list tables 980 and 986. Exhibit list tables 980 and 986 include columns 982A-982C, and 988A-988C, respectively, and a plurality of entries 984, and 990, respectively. Columns 982A and 988A include a pleading index number for each entry. Columns 982B and 988B include a description of each exhibit list entry. Columns 982C and 988C include a date for each exhibit list entry.
Deposition designation of testimony web page 202U includes deposition designations tables 1000 and 1006. Deposition designations tables 1000 and 1006 include columns 1002A-1002C, and 1008A-1008C, respectively, and a plurality of entries 1004, and 1010, respectively. Columns 1002A and 1008A include a pleading index number for each entry. Columns 1002B and 1008B include a description of each deposition designations entry. Columns 1002C and 1008C include a date for each deposition designations entry.
Offers of settlement web page 202V includes offers of settlement table 1020. Offers of settlement table 1020 includes columns 1022A-1022C, and a plurality of entries 1024. Column 1022A includes a pleading index number for each entry. Column 1022B includes a description of each offers of settlement entry. Column 1022C includes a date for each offers of settlement entry.
Special verdict forms web page 202W includes special verdict forms table 1030. Special verdict forms table 1030 includes columns 1032A-1032C, and a plurality of entries 1034. Column 1032A includes a pleading index number for each entry. Column 1032B includes a description of each special verdict forms entry. Column 1032C includes a date for each special verdict forms entry.
Voir Dire questions web page 202X includes Voir Dire questions table 1040. Voir Dire questions table 1040 includes columns 1042A-1042C, and a plurality of entries 1044. Column 1042A includes a pleading index number for each entry. Column 1042B includes a description of each Voir Dire questions entry. Column 1042C includes a date for each Voir Dire questions entry.
After a client has logged into litigation management system 200 via login web page 202BB, client portal web page 202CC, shown in
Each one of the active litigation cases 1070 listed on web page 202DD is a hyperlink. Selection of one of the cases 1070 results in the display of a home page for the case, such as home page 202A or 202A′. The client may then access litigation information regarding the selected case from the displayed home page 202A or 202A′. In one embodiment, the home page 202A or 202A′ displayed to a client and the litigation information accessible by a client is different than the home page displayed to attorneys for the case and the litigation information accessible by the attorneys. Web page 202DD also includes “Home” hyperlink 1072 to return to client portal page 202CC.
It will be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific litigation information shown in the various figures and described herein, but encompasses other types of litigation information as well. It will also be understood that not all litigation information shown and described herein will be needed for every type of litigation. As one example, not every litigation will be a patent litigation, so a patents web page 202I may not be needed in some implementations.
A key feature of one embodiment of the present invention is the organization and logical relationships provided by user interface 202. Litigation information is organized into various logical relationships, including by category and by date, with overlapping categories or subcategories, which allows a user to quickly locate and view a particular litigation document. For example, in one form of the present invention, pleadings web page 202G lists all forms of pleadings information, whereas certain other web pages 202, such as discovery web page 202J, orders web page 202L, and motions web page 202N only list a subset of the pleadings information. Thus, if a user wants to locate a particular court order, for example, the user need not sort through all of the pleadings to locate the order, but can go directly to orders web page 202L to quickly locate and view an electronic copy of the order.
In one embodiment, web pages 202 are continually updated as additional litigation information for a case is accumulated (e.g., additional correspondence, pleadings, etc.). In one form of the invention, documents are scanned and electronic copies are stored in a database for access via appropriate web pages 202. Identifying information for documents (e.g., case, dates, senders, recipients, addresses, etc.) is extracted from the electronic copies using optical character recognition, and the identifying information is stored along with the electronic copies. When a new document has been added to the system, an alert (e.g., an email alert) is sent to appropriate individuals to notify them of the new document and to request that appropriate web pages 202 be updated. In one embodiment, scripting is used (e.g., via Content Publisher, or some other web publishing software) to update pages.
In one form of the invention, when web pages 202 are updated, appropriate individuals (e.g., one or more attorneys and/or paralegals working on the case) are notified by email of the changes. In one embodiment, individual users of litigation management system 200 can subscribe to updates of certain web pages 202, and be notified when changes to these particular web pages 202 occur. For example, a user may want to be notified each time a new Court Order is added to the system 200, but may not want to be notified of the addition of every new correspondence.
One form of litigation management system 200 includes a scanning log feature that automatically increments a counter when a new page is added to the system 200. Litigation management system 200 can also automatically calculate the total number of pages in the system 200. An invoice may be generated based on the counter value, the calculated total number of pages, or the change in the calculated total number of pages from a previously calculated total number of pages.
The present invention may be implemented as a computer process, a computing system or as an article of manufacture such as a computer program product or computer readable media. The computer program product may be a computer storage media readable by a computer system and encoding a computer program of instructions for executing a computer process. The computer program product may also be a propagated signal on a carrier readable by a computing system and encoding a computer program of instructions for executing a computer process.
In one embodiment, the logical operations of the present invention are implemented (1) as a sequence of computer implemented acts or program modules running on a computing system and/or (2) as interconnected machine logic circuits or circuit modules within the computing system. The implementation is a matter of choice dependent on the performance requirements of the computing system implementing the invention. Accordingly, the logical operations making up the embodiments of the present invention described herein are referred to variously as operations, structural devices, acts or modules. It will be recognized by one skilled in the art that these operations, structural devices, acts and modules may be implemented in software, in firmware, in special purpose digital logic, and any combination thereof without deviating from the spirit and scope of the present invention as recited within the claims attached hereto.
Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein for purposes of description of the preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that a wide variety of alternate and/or equivalent implementations may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown and described without departing from the scope of the present invention. Those with skill in the chemical, mechanical, electro-mechanical, electrical, and computer arts will readily appreciate that the present invention may be implemented in a very wide variety of embodiments. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the preferred embodiments discussed herein. Therefore, it is manifestly intended that this invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.
Claims
1. A computer-based user interface for accessing information, the user interface comprising:
- a home page including a first plurality of user-selectable hyperlinks, each hyperlink in the first plurality of hyperlinks identifying a category of information, the hyperlinks thereby identifying categories of information, wherein the home page is configured to be displayed by a display device;
- a plurality of web pages, each web page associated with one of the hyperlinks in the first plurality of hyperlinks, each web page providing information related to the category identified by the hyperlink associated with the web page, each web page displayed by the display device in response to selection of the hyperlink associated with the web page; and
- wherein the categories of information include at least one of pleadings information, discovery information, court orders, and motions.
2. (canceled)
3. The computer-based user interface of claim 1, wherein one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is docket information, and wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for docket information includes a plurality of docket entries, each docket entry including a description of a litigation action and a due date for the action.
4. The computer-based user interface of claim 3, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for docket information includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of litigation documents associated with docket entries.
5. The computer-based user interface of claim 1, wherein one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is correspondence information, and wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for correspondence information includes a plurality of correspondence entries, each correspondence entry including a description of a correspondence and a date of the correspondence.
6. The computer-based user interface of claim 5, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for correspondence information includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of correspondence.
7. The computer-based user interface of claim 1, wherein one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is pleadings information, and wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for pleadings information includes a plurality of pleadings entries, each pleadings entry including a description of a pleading.
8. The computer-based user interface of claim 7, wherein each pleadings entry further includes a pleadings number, a date, and a source identifier identifying a source of the described pleading.
9. The computer-based user interface of claim 8, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for pleadings information includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of pleadings documents.
10. (canceled)
11. The computer-based user interface of claim 1, wherein one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is patent information, and wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for patent information includes information regarding at least one patent.
12. The computer-based user interface of claim 11, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for patent information includes a hyperlink to an electronic copy of the at least one patent.
13. The computer-based user interface of claim 11, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for patent information includes a hyperlink to an electronic copy of a file history of the at least one patent.
14-20. (canceled)
21. The computer-based user interface of claim 1, wherein one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is court orders, and wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for court orders includes a plurality of court order entries, each court order entry including a description of a court order.
22. The computer-based user interface of claim 21, wherein the court order entries further include pleadings numbers and dates associated with the court orders.
23. The computer-based user interface of claim 22, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for court orders includes hyperlinks to electronic copies of court orders.
24-26. (canceled)
27. The computer-based user interface of claim 1, wherein one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is motions, and wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for motions includes a plurality of descriptions of motions and a plurality of hyperlinks to electronic copies of described motions.
28-61. (canceled)
62. A method of managing litigation information for at least one lawsuit, the method comprising:
- storing litigation information for the at least one lawsuit on a computer network;
- storing user interface data on the computer network;
- generating and displaying a user interface based on the stored user interface data, the user interface including a litigation case selection page, the litigation case selection page including a plurality of links, each link on the litigation case selection page corresponding to at least one lawsuit, a plurality of litigation case home pages, each litigation case home page corresponding to one of the links on the litigation case selection page and providing a plurality of links to the litigation information, each of the plurality of links corresponding to one category of a plurality of categories of litigation information, at least one of the categories of litigation information being a subcategory of at least one of the other categories of litigation information;
- receiving selection data provided by a user, the selection data identifying a first link in the plurality of links; and
- displaying litigation information related to the category corresponding to the first link.
63-79. (canceled)
80. A method of accessing information, the method comprising:
- displaying a home page including a first plurality of user-selectable hyperlinks, the hyperlinks in the first plurality identifying a plurality of categories of information, wherein the categories of information include patent information, correspondence information, and docket information;
- selecting a first one of the plurality of hyperlinks; and
- displaying a web page associated with the first one of the hyperlinks, the web page providing information related to a category identified by the first one of the hyperlinks.
81-83. (canceled)
84. The computer-based user interface of claim 1, wherein one of the categories identified by the hyperlinks is competitors, and wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for competitors includes information about an entity's competitors.
85. The method of claim 80, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for patent information includes information regarding at least one patent, and a hyperlink to an electronic copy of the at least one patent.
86. The method of claim 85, wherein the web page associated with the hyperlink for patent information includes a hyperlink to an electronic copy of a file history of the at least one patent.
Type: Application
Filed: Feb 3, 2012
Publication Date: Aug 2, 2012
Applicant: MERCHANT & GOULD, P.C. (Minneapolis, MN)
Inventors: Kimberly Ann Newell (Coon Rapids, MN), Robert Joseph Glance (Minneapolis, MN)
Application Number: 13/365,628
