In CSI Lawyer, it is recommended to create new matters via a matter request, but you can also create matters directly without a matter request. 

A new matter is created either in the Workspace area’s Matters folder or in the customer’s information. By default, all users have the right to open new matters, but the power user can restrict this right to specific user groups. 

In the Matters folder, create a new matter as follows:

1. Select the New button, which by default creates a billable customer matter
   • From the dropdown under the New button, you can also open an internal matter for recording administrative work. NOTE! The billable/internal status cannot be changed afterwards.
2. Enter the following information in the matter window:
   
   
    
   • Select the principal; if the matter is created via the customer’s information, the customer is saved by default as the principal, client, and payer. 
   • Enter a descriptive name for the matter in the Subject field. This field appears on the invoice printout unless overridden in the Invoicing tab’s Invoice Subject field.
   • Business unit, language, receiving and opening dates, and responsibility details are filled in automatically but can be edited.
   • Ensure the matter’s language in the Language field is correct, as it determines the invoice template’s print language. If the language differs from the system language, the software checks translations for transactions and expenses as well. 
   • The owner (e.g., partner) is ultimately responsible for the matter, the responsible person manages the matter’s practical handling, the assistant is a supporting lawyer or assistant, and the seller is the person who brought the matter to the office.
   • The invoicing contact is the primary contact for invoicing related to the matter, and this information also appears on the customer’s invoice. The power user may have set a default value for this field in the software settings. 
3. Complete the necessary information in the Invoicing tab:
   • The matter’s currency is the default currency for entering transactions. It is recommended to use euro as the default currency even if the customer pays in another currency; the invoice can always be printed in a currency different from the entry currency.
   • If a fixed price has been agreed with the customer, select the Fixed Price field and set the price. The invoice will then be sent at the set price regardless of entries, and discounts cannot be given to payers in the matter.
   • If a maximum price has been agreed, enter it in the Price Limit field. When the price limit is exceeded, the software warns or prevents new transactions from being entered. You can also add a price alert limit, which informs the responsible person of the approaching price limit.
   • Exceptional VAT handling overrides the customer’s home country tax status if necessary.
4. Save, and the matter folders are activated, allowing you to continue completing the matter’s information.