> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.matter-vault.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Document Templates

> How to view, download, and override the standard legal document templates used by Matter Vault.

Matter Vault generates legal documents — retainers, HIPAA authorizations, letters of representation, and more — from built-in templates pre-filled with case data. Firm administrators can download these templates and upload firm-specific versions to replace the defaults.

## Where to find Document Templates

Navigate to Firm Admin → Document Templates in the left sidebar. Only firm administrators can access this page.

## How templates work

Matter Vault uses a three-tier priority system when generating a document:

| Priority     | Source                     | Notes                                                     |
| ------------ | -------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------- |
| 1 (highest)  | Firm-uploaded template     | Your firm's custom .docx, used verbatim                   |
| 2            | System mail-merge template | Uploaded by Matter Vault staff, pre-filled with case data |
| 3 (fallback) | Built-in template          | Always available, generated from case data                |

If your firm has not uploaded a custom template, the built-in template is used automatically.

## Downloading a system template

To see what a built-in template looks like before deciding whether to customize it:

1. Go to Firm Admin → Document Templates
2. Find the template you want in the list
3. Click Download to save the .docx to your computer

The downloaded file shows the standard layout and placeholder fields. You can use it as a starting point for your firm's version.

## Uploading a firm template

To replace a built-in template with your firm's version:

1. Go to Firm Admin → Document Templates
2. Find the template you want to override
3. Click Upload
4. Select your .docx file
5. Click Save

From this point on, Matter Vault uses your uploaded file whenever that document type is generated for any case at your firm.

<Note>
  Firm-uploaded templates are used verbatim — case data is not automatically substituted into them. If your template needs client names, dates, or other case-specific information filled in, you must add those fields manually after downloading the generated file, or contact support about system mail-merge templates.
</Note>

## Removing a firm template

To revert to the built-in template:

1. Go to Firm Admin → Document Templates
2. Find the template with a firm override
3. Click Remove override

Matter Vault will return to using the built-in template for that document type.

## Available templates

| Template                             | Used when                                |
| ------------------------------------ | ---------------------------------------- |
| Retainer / Contingency Fee Agreement | Generated from PI case Opening Documents |
| HIPAA Authorization                  | Generated from PI case Opening Documents |
| Letter of Representation             | Generated from PI case Opening Documents |
| Medical Records Request              | Generated from PI case medical tab       |
| Lost Wage Verification               | Generated from PI case                   |