Associates should be self-motivated to write monthly status letters.
The UPSIDE to writing status letters once a month to a client (and their insurance companies, if any):
1-it keeps the client informed of what is happening on his or her case,
2-it makes the client more willing to pay the bill because they know what is happening on their case,
3-a cc or bc to the supervising shareholder gives them confidence that the case is moving forward,
4-it prevents malpractice in case something is happening that is contrary to the client or shareholders wishes, and
5-it has the side benefit of making money for your firm while accomplishing the 1st 4 benefits.
Note to self: telephone calls are not sufficient because a t/p call does not meet the goal of #3 & 4
The DOWNSIDE of not writing status letters: When discovered (usually by a client complaining "what is going on in my case") the associate gets put on probation and potentially fired.
Need additional motivation? See How to Bill 2000 Hours for more about status letters
P.S. Tell your secretary to calendar ALL files for review every 30 days for a status letter.
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