---
title: "Opening a new matter in Notion: intake form and template"
url: https://thematteros.com/features/matter_drop
updated: 2026-10-17
author: Raghav Handa
---

# Opening a new matter in Notion: intake form and template

To open a new matter in MatterOS, create a row in the Matters hub from a database template that pre-fills status, checklists and linked views. A Notion form can collect the first details. The template does not accept email or documents automatically; a person reviews each intake.

## Key takeaways

- Use a database template so every matter starts with the same structure.
- A Notion form can collect client and matter basics before you open the case.
- Run the manual conflict routine and engagement steps before treating it as accepted.
- Intake submissions are drafts until a lawyer reviews them.

## Opening a matter step by step

1. Capture the enquiry: Use a form or a quick row with the person, the issue and the date.
2. Run checks: Do your conflict search and any identity or engagement steps your rules require.
3. Create the matter from the template: Choose the matter template so status, checklist and views are set.
4. Link the client: Select or create the client record.
5. Set owner and next step: Name the responsible lawyer and add the first Action with a date.
6. Record key dates: Add limitation or court dates you have calculated from the applicable rules.

- Notion: forms: https://www.notion.com/help/forms
- Notion: database templates: https://www.notion.com/help/database-templates


## What a good intake form asks

- Name and contact details of the person.
- Type of matter and short description.
- Other parties involved.
- Any known deadlines.
- How they were referred.

Keep it short, and do not ask for more sensitive information than you need at this stage. A form link can be forwarded, so avoid collecting anything you would not want in the wrong hands.


## What stays manual

| Task | Status in MatterOS |
| --- | --- |
| Conflict search | Manual routine, not automated |
| Engagement letter | Draft with your own documents; the AI prompts can help |
| Deadline calculation | From the applicable rules, entered by you |
| Trust account opening | Use your accounting tools |


## After the matter is open

File the first documents and set the weekly review habit.

- Document filing: https://thematteros.com/features/document_drop
- Conflict routine: https://thematteros.com/features/conflict_check
- Matter pillar: https://thematteros.com/features/pillar_matters


## FAQ

### Is there a one-click matter drop in MatterOS?

No. You create a matter from a template, optionally fed by a Notion form.

### Can clients fill in the intake form?

Yes if you share it, but think about confidentiality and spam first.

### Does the form check conflicts?

No. Run your conflict routine separately.

### Can I customise the template?

Yes. Edit the properties, checklist and views.

## Sources

- [Notion: Forms](https://www.notion.com/help/forms)