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Import Clients and Cases from CSV

Validate and import clients, cases, and events from Clio, MyCase, PracticePanther, or a generic CSV export.

Updated June 18, 2026
importmigrationclientscsv

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

  1. Select your import method and data type(s).
  2. Upload CSV files only โ€” use headers that match the expected template.
  3. Click Download Example Files for clients, cases, or events if you need a column reference.
  4. 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

  1. Export from the old system cleanly โ€” use the vendor's standard CSV export; avoid merged cells and title rows in Excel.
  2. Normalize phones and emails โ€” consistent formatting improves validation and duplicate detection.
  3. Start with a small test file โ€” five to ten rows through validate catches header issues early.
  4. 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.

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