Summarise the position
Write a short account of the matter’s current stage, the latest development and the intended outcome. Avoid copying an entire correspondence history into the summary.
Identify the next actions
List each action with an owner, a date and the information needed to complete it. Distinguish firm deadlines from internal target dates.
Point to the documents
Identify the working documents, the final versions and any material still outstanding. Use consistent names so the next person can find the right record.
Confirm the handover
Ask the receiving colleague to confirm the next steps. Record unresolved questions and decide who will answer them.
Use a repeatable handover note
Include the matter reference, responsible attorney, current stage, next deadline and its source, outstanding documents, next action, action owner and review date. Distinguish a verified external deadline from an internal target.
Close the loop
A handover is complete when the receiving person understands the next action and can access the relevant material. Record acceptance, remove duplicate tasks and retain unresolved questions with a named owner.