In a typical office file cabinet, folders are the key organizational unit. It is common practice for offices to maintain client or matter files in their own, separate file folders. In Working with Drawers, however, we suggested that you take a different approach. We recommended using drawers as the key organizational unit, maintaining client or matter files in their own, separate drawers.
With a separate drawer for each client or matter, you can then use a small number of folders in the drawer to organize the documents logically. For example, Kim Attorney uses one drawer per client. She then creates folders for each matter or case that she handles for the client and, when necessary, sub-folders to further organize the files by type: correspondence, document drafts, research notes, etc. Bob Litigator, on the other hand, finds it preferrable to have one drawer for each case he handles, with topical folders in the drawer to organize the case files. He has folders for testimony, evidence, briefs, court filings, scanned originals, etc. Use folders in a way that organizes your files logically and simplifies access to your files. Avoid the tendency to create complex trees of folders where files can get misplaced or lost easily.