Overview
Legl allows you to enforce validation rules on client references and matter references. You can require that a reference is filled in, that it follows a specific format, or that it is unique across your firm.
What you can configure
For both client references and matter references, you can request any combination of the following rules:
Required — the reference field must be completed before the record can be saved.
Unique — no two records can share the same reference value. This is particularly useful if you pull data from Legl into another system and need references to act as unique identifiers.
Format-specific — the reference must match a specific pattern (for example, always starting with a particular prefix or following a set structure).
You can apply different rules to client references and matter references independently.
Where the rules apply
Client reference rules apply when you:
Create or update an Engage request
Create or edit a contact
Create a business from business search
Matter reference rules apply when you:
Create or update an Engage request
Run a company report, or edit its matter reference
Update the matter reference on a business sanctions screening
The rules do not apply to:
Risk assessments — the matter reference on a risk assessment is a free-text field.
Legl Pay — Pay references have their own rules, which our Support team sets up separately.
How to enable reference validation
Decide which rules you want to apply and to which reference fields — client reference, matter reference, or both.
If you need a format-specific rule, note down an example reference so our team can confirm the correct pattern.
Contact our Support team with your requirements and we will configure the validation rules for your firm.
ℹ️ Further guidance
What happens next
Once configured, the validation rules apply immediately. If a user tries to save a record with a reference that does not meet the required rules, they will see an error message and will need to correct the reference before proceeding.
Important information
Reference validation rules are configured by Legl on your behalf and cannot currently be changed in your firm's Settings.
Uniqueness is enforced across your whole company, not just within a single client or matter record.
You can request different rules for client references and matter references independently.