Writing a time narrative
A narrative is read by somebody deciding whether to pay it. Write it for them.
Say what was produced
"Drafting particulars of claim; considering counsel's advice on quantum" is billable work described. "Attending to matter" and "reviewing file" are the two entries that generate fee disputes, and they are the two most commonly written.
One task, one entry
Block-billing four tasks under one figure invites the whole entry to be challenged. Separate them, each with its own time.
Match the record
The narrative must be supported by something on the file — a document, an email, an attendance note. An entry with no artefact behind it cannot be defended on assessment.
Flag rather than write
Time recorded to the wrong matter · a narrative that does not match the fee earner's grade · duplicated attendance by two fee earners without a reason · anything above the estimate the client was given.
Never
Write a narrative for work you cannot see evidence of, round up, or describe internal training or file management as client work.
