Import Clients and Cases from CSV
Validate and import clients, cases, and events from Clio, MyCase, PracticePanther, or a generic CSV export.
Use Import Data to bring clients, cases, and calendar events into MyLawyerLink from a CSV export โ without retyping everything.
Where to start
Open Account โ Import Data (/account/import).
You can also reach import from Account Settings and from the Clients page when adding data in bulk.
The wizard has four stages: Select Type โ Upload โ Review โ Complete.
Choose an import method
Single import
Import one entity type at a time:
- Clients โ contact and profile fields
- Cases โ matters linked to clients
- Events โ hearings, deadlines, and appointments
Best when you are adding one list or fixing a single export.
Combined import
Upload clients, cases, and events together. MyLawyerLink processes them in order (Clients โ Cases โ Events) and links relationships automatically.
Best for a full migration from another practice management system.
Upload and validate
- Select your import method and data type(s).
- Upload CSV files only โ use headers that match the expected template.
- Click Download Example Files for clients, cases, or events if you need a column reference.
- Click Validate & Continue.
Validation runs before anything is written. You will see:
- Total rows, valid rows, errors, and duplicates
- Row-level error messages to fix in your spreadsheet
- Potential duplicates flagged for the next step
Fix the CSV and re-upload if validation fails.
Configure and run
On Configure Import Options:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Skip duplicates | Do not import rows that match existing records |
| Update existing | Merge new data into matching records |
| Create new | Always insert new rows |
Source system (optional) โ choose Generic CSV, Clio, MyCase, or PracticePanther to improve column mapping from vendor exports.
Click Execute Import. When finished, review Total, Successful, Failed, and Skipped counts.
Tips for a smooth import
- Export from the old system cleanly โ use the vendor's standard CSV export; avoid merged cells and title rows in Excel.
- Normalize phones and emails โ consistent formatting improves validation and duplicate detection.
- Start with a small test file โ five to ten rows through validate catches header issues early.
- Keep the source export โ the CSV from your prior system remains part of your records; import is a copy, not a substitute for file retention obligations.
After import
- Spot-check a few clients and cases in the app.
- Open the calendar and confirm imported events appear on the right matters.
- Set up document templates and SMS templates once your core data is in place.
- Configure the client portal and calendar feeds when staff are ready for clients to self-serve.
Related guides
- Using Merge Fields โ for templates after migration
- Set Up the Client Portal โ invite clients after data is imported
- Export Case Events to Your Calendar App โ subscribe to imported events in your calendar
Related guides
Create Your First Case
Add a client, open a matter, and start tracking work in MyLawyerLink โ a five-minute setup for new accounts.
Set Up the Client Portal and Invite Clients
Configure portal features, branding, and document rules, then invite clients to view cases, documents, invoices, and messages.
Export Case Events to Your Calendar App
Create named iCalendar feeds from Events & Calendar and subscribe in Google Calendar, Outlook, or Apple Calendar.