The holiday season is a time of celebration, family, and reflection. It’s also one of the busiest times of the year. Between travel, parties, shopping, and year-end obligations, it’s easy for important tasks to slip through the cracks. For clients with legal matters, this can be even more stressful. Deadlines don’t take a holiday, and legal issues, whether related to real estate, business, or estate planning still need attention.
As a project manager here at Campbell Teague, I help coordinate multiple moving parts for our clients, so nothing is missed, deadlines are met, and the process is as smooth as possible. Here’s how you can stay organized and enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed.
1. Focus on What Truly Matters
It’s tempting to create a long to-do list that includes everything imaginable, but during the holidays, less is more. Prioritize the essential tasks that need to be done before the year ends.
For legal matters, this might mean:
- Gathering documents for an upcoming real estate closing
- Signing and returning agreements
- Scheduling a consultation to review an estate plan before January 1st
Instead of stressing about every minor detail, focus on completing these high-priority items first. This keeps progress steady and reduces holiday-induced stress.
2. Consolidate Your Documents
One of the most common issues I see as a project manager is disorganized paperwork. Clients often have important documents spread across multiple locations, some in a desk drawer, others in a digital folder, and a few still sitting unopened in the mail pile.
During the holidays, consolidating your key documents into one location makes a world of difference. Consider creating a dedicated folder, either physical or digital, with clearly labeled sections for:
- Contracts or agreements
- Estate planning documents (wills, trusts, powers of attorney)
- Property records
- Financial statements and receipts
Having everything in one place ensures that if your attorney needs information or a signature, you can access it quickly. This reduces stress, speeds up your matters, and prevents last-minute scrambling.
3. Communicate Early and Often
As a project manager, one of my primary responsibilities is keeping everyone informed. Clear communication prevents missteps and ensures deadlines are met. During the holidays, this principle is even more critical.
Tips for staying in communication:
- Let your attorney know about upcoming travel or time off that may affect deadlines.
- Respond promptly to emails or messages about legal matters, even if it’s just a quick acknowledgment.
- Schedule regular check-ins if you have ongoing matters that require multiple steps.
Proactive communication prevents surprises and ensures that even if the season is hectic, nothing slips through the cracks.
4. Lean on Your Legal Team for Support
Finally, don’t try to manage everything alone. Legal matters can be complex, and the holiday season only amplifies challenges. As a law firm project manager, I coordinate between attorneys, paralegals, and clients to make sure every task is tracked, milestones are met, and questions are answered promptly.
If you’re feeling stretched, reach out for help. Your legal team can:
- Clarify what documents are truly needed right now
- Help organize submissions or signatures
- Adjust timelines to accommodate holiday schedules
This partnership keeps your matters moving forward while reducing stress and ensuring that deadlines are met, even when the office is quieter for the holidays.
Overall
Staying organized during the holidays doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on essential tasks, using your calendar wisely and communicating effectively, you can navigate the season smoothly.
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not to be a source of legal stress. With intentional planning and support from your legal team, you can keep your matters on track while still finding time for family, friends, and reflection.
