[Illustration: Fig. 25. Document File Envelopes _Browne-Morse Co._]
As a filing system for the lawyer's office, this method is unsurpassed. Every record of the office is kept in one complete filing system, yet each case is separate and distinct. Every paper and all correspondence relating to a given case is filed, unfolded, in one of the document envelopes--or a folder can be used--bringing all papers on the same subject together.
If indexed alphabetically, the papers are filed according to the name of the client. When the numerical index is adopted, an alphabetical index card with cross-references, including the docket index, is used. The folders may be numbered by case or office numbers. Copies of opinions can be filed in the same manner, making every opinion available whether given yesterday or ten years ago. The usual confusion in the lawyer's office, incident to the search for papers scattered through several files, is entirely done away with.
=Clippings.= The vertical system is the most practicable for filing clippings, but, since they are liable to be lost through the open ends of the ordinary correspondence folder, it is best to use either the envelope or the invoice folder--preferably the former. Indexing for clippings should be by subject, and if a file is used exclusively for clippings, it may be either numerical or alphabetical. As a rule, the latter is most satisfactory, though the former is used quite extensively.
[Illustration: Fig. 26. Drawing or Map File _C. J. Lundstrom Co._]
An envelope should be used for each subject. On the front of the envelope the name of the subject and a list of the contents is written. All clippings relating to that subject are filed in the envelope, which is placed back of the proper alphabetical guide. Cross-references, when needed, are provided by a card index.
=Drawings and Maps.= A large concern, especially a manufacturing enterprise, has a large number of drawings, blue prints, maps, and photographs to file. One method is to file them in large folders, laid flat in a flat drawer, using a card index for cross-reference.
A more convenient method is to file them vertically. The ordinary vertical file drawer is too small for large drawings, but in Fig. 26 is shown a special file which will accommodate drawings measuring 24"×36". The drawings are filed in heavy folders, made to fit the drawer. This drawer is hinged at its lower front edge, permitting it to be opened by simply tilting the drawer forward, an operation which is accomplished with very little exertion. The drawer is held in open position by an automatic catch which is quickly released when it is desired to close the drawer. Each drawer is provided with an adjustable follower which moves back as the space fills up. When open the drawer exposes its entire contents, any of which may be picked out instantly and again filed with the utmost convenience and dispatch. When a large tracing is to be filed, it is desirable to first pull out the folder to which it belongs and, after having placed the tracing therein, to slip the folder back in its place. This prevents any accidental creasing of the drawing.