Case Summary Skill

Generate comprehensive litigation packages and case evaluation summaries from uploaded legal case files.

Purpose

This skill transforms a disorganized collection of legal case documents into a structured, attorney-ready case evaluation summary. It replicates the workflow of an experienced personal injury paralegal analyzing a new case file.

When to Use This Skill

Use this skill when:

A user uploads multiple legal/medical documents for a case
The user requests a "case summary," "case evaluation," "litigation package," or similar
The user has PI (personal injury), medical malpractice, or similar plaintiff-side case files
Documents include medical records, police reports, bills, depositions, or correspondence

Core Workflow

The case summary process follows five phases:

Phase 1: Triage & Classification
         ↓
Phase 2: Document Deep-Dive
         ↓
Phase 3: Analysis & Synthesis
         ↓
Phase 4: Red Flag Identification
         ↓
Phase 5: Valuation & Recommendations

Citation Standards

Bates Number Citations (Default)

Bates numbers are the preferred citation method when available. Bates numbers provide unique, immutable page identifiers that are standard in litigation document production.

Bates Number Formats

Common Bates formats to recognize:

ABC000001 - Prefix + sequential number
SMITH_0001 - Name prefix with underscore
DEF-MED-000001 - Multi-part prefix
PL00001 - Short prefix
000001 - Numbers only

Citation Format Hierarchy

When citing sources, use this priority order:

Bates Range (preferred): [SMITH_0045-0048]
Bates + Document Name: [SMITH_0045-0048 (Memorial Hospital ER Records)]
Document + Page (fallback when no Bates): [Memorial_ER_Records.pdf, pp. 1-4]

Citation Examples

Context Citation Format Single page [SMITH_0045] Page range [SMITH_0045-0048] Multiple ranges [SMITH_0045-0048; SMITH_0112] Cross-document [SMITH_0045-0048; JONES_0023] With context [SMITH_0045-0048 (Dr. Chen office notes 3/15/24)] Deposition cite [Smith Depo. 45:12-46:8, SMITH_DEP_0045-0046]

Bates Tracking Object

Maintain a master Bates index for the case:

{
  "bates_index": {
    "prefix_legend": {
      "SMITH": "Plaintiff production",
      "DEF": "Defendant production", 
      "JONES": "Third-party production"
    },
    "ranges": [
      {
        "prefix": "SMITH",
        "start": "0001",
        "end": "0523",
        "description": "Plaintiff's initial production"
      },
      {
        "prefix": "DEF",
        "start": "000001",
        "end": "001247",
        "description": "Defendant's production"
      }
    ],
    "document_map": [
      {
        "bates_start": "SMITH_0001",
        "bates_end": "SMITH_0045",
        "document_name": "Memorial Hospital Records",
        "date_range": "2024-03-15 to 2024-03-17",
        "category": "medical_record"
      }
    ]
  }
}

Phase 1: Triage & Classification

Objective

Sort all documents into categories and establish what you're working with.

Document Categories

Classify each document into one of these primary categories:

Category Description Priority incident_report Police reports, accident reports, incident documentation HIGH medical_record Treatment notes, hospital records, diagnostic reports HIGH medical_bill Invoices, statements, EOBs from medical providers HIGH deposition Deposition transcripts (plaintiff, defendant, witness, expert) HIGH imaging_report MRI, CT, X-ray, EMG interpretations HIGH expert_report IME reports, life care plans, vocational assessments HIGH pleading Complaints, answers, motions, court filings MEDIUM discovery Interrogatories, RFPs, RFAs, responses MEDIUM correspondence Letters, emails between parties/counsel MEDIUM insurance Policy documents, coverage letters, claim forms MEDIUM employment Pay stubs, tax returns, employer letters MEDIUM photograph Scene photos, injury photos, vehicle damage MEDIUM prior_medical Medical records from before the incident HIGH other Documents that don't fit other categories LOW

Medical Record Subtypes

When classifying medical records, identify the subtype:

er_record - Emergency room visit
hospital_admission - Inpatient stay
office_visit - Outpatient doctor visit
operative_report - Surgical procedure documentation
consultation - Specialist consultation
physical_therapy - PT/OT session notes
diagnostic_imaging - MRI/CT/X-ray reports
lab_results - Blood work, pathology
discharge_summary - Hospital discharge documentation
prescription - Medication records
dme - Durable medical equipment records

Classification Output Format

For each document, extract:

{
  "filename": "original_filename.pdf",
  "category": "medical_record",
  "subtype": "office_visit",
  "provider": "Dr. Jane Smith, MD",
  "facility": "Valley Orthopedics",
  "date": "2024-03-18",
  "date_range": {
    "start": "2024-03-18",
    "end": "2024-03-18"
  },
  "patient_name": "John Doe",
  "page_count": 5,
  "bates_range": {
    "start": "SMITH_0045",
    "end": "SMITH_0049",
    "prefix": "SMITH",
    "has_bates": true
  },
  "is_duplicate": false,
  "duplicate_of": null,
  "quality": "good|fair|poor",
  "notes": "Initial orthopedic consultation post-MVA"
}

Bates Number Extraction

During triage, identify and extract Bates stamps:

{
  "bates_detection": {
    "has_bates_numbers": true,
    "bates_location": "bottom_right|bottom_center|top_right|footer",
    "bates_format": "PREFIX_NNNNNN",
    "sample_bates": "SMITH_000045",
    "prefix_identified": "SMITH",
    "numbering_scheme": "sequential",
    "confidence": "high|medium|low"
  }
}

Duplicate Detection

Flag potential duplicates by matching:

Same provider + same date + similar page count
Identical first page content
Same document with different scan quality
Same Bates range appearing in multiple files

Phase 2: Document Deep-Dive

2.1 Incident Analysis

Extract from police/incident reports:

{
  "incident": {
    "date": "2024-03-15",
    "time": "15:30",
    "location": {
      "address": "Highway 101 at Main Street Exit",
      "city": "San Jose",
      "state": "CA",
      "type": "highway|intersection|parking_lot|premises"
    },
    "type": "motor_vehicle_accident|slip_and_fall|dog_bite|assault|premises_liability",
    "weather": "clear",
    "road_conditions": "dry",
    "lighting": "daylight"
  },
  "parties": {
    "plaintiff": {
      "name": "Jane Smith",
      "dob": "1985-06-15",
      "vehicle": "2019 Honda Accord",
      "insurance": "Geico",
      "injuries_reported_at_scene": ["neck pain", "headache"],
      "transported": true,
      "transported_to": "Memorial Hospital",
      "transported_by": "ambulance"
    },
    "defendant": {
      "name": "John Doe",
      "dob": "1978-03-22",
      "vehicle": "2021 Ford F-150",
      "insurance": "State Farm",
      "policy_number": "if available"
    },
    "witnesses": [
      {
        "name": "Bob Wilson",
        "contact": "555-1234",
        "statement_summary": "Saw defendant's truck hit plaintiff's car from behind"
      }
    ]
  },
  "officer_narrative": "Summary of what officer documented",
  "citations_issued": [
    {
      "to": "defendant",
      "violation": "VC 21703 - Following too closely",
      "is_favorable": true
    }
  ],
  "fault_determination": "Defendant cited, clear rear-end collision",
  "diagrams": "Description of any accident diagrams included",
  "source_citation": {
    "bates_range": "SMITH_0001-0008",
    "document_name": "CHP Traffic Collision Report",
    "citation_string": "[SMITH_0001-0008]"
  }
}

2.2 Medical Chronology Extraction

For EACH medical record, extract a structured entry:

{
  "entry_id": "med_001",
  "date": "2024-03-15",
  "provider": {
    "name": "Dr. Robert Chen",
    "credentials": "MD",
    "specialty": "Emergency Medicine",
    "facility": "Memorial Hospital",
    "facility_type": "hospital_er|clinic|surgery_center|imaging_center"
  },
  "visit_type": "er_visit|office_visit|procedure|therapy|imaging",
  "chief_complaint": "Patient's stated reason for visit",
  "history_of_present_illness": "Narrative of what happened and symptoms",
  "objective_findings": {
    "vital_signs": "BP 130/85, HR 88, etc.",
    "physical_exam": [
      {
        "body_part": "cervical_spine",
        "findings": "Tenderness to palpation C4-C6, reduced ROM, muscle spasm"
      },
      {
        "body_part": "lumbar_spine", 
        "findings": "Positive straight leg raise left, tenderness L4-L5"
      }
    ],
    "neurological": "Intact sensation, 5/5 strength bilateral upper/lower extremities",
    "range_of_motion": {
      "cervical_flexion": "30 degrees (normal 50)",
      "cervical_rotation": "45 degrees bilateral (normal 80)"
    }
  },
  "subjective_complaints": {
    "pain_level": "7/10",
    "pain_location": ["neck", "lower back", "left leg"],
    "pain_quality": "sharp, radiating",
    "aggravating_factors": ["sitting", "bending"],
    "relieving_factors": ["lying down", "ice"]
  },
  "assessment": {
    "diagnoses": [
      {
        "description": "Cervical strain",
        "icd_code": "S13.4XXA"
      },
      {
        "description": "Lumbar disc herniation L4-L5",
        "icd_code": "M51.16"
      }
    ],
    "causation_statement": "Injuries consistent with reported MVA",
    "prognosis": "if stated"
  },
  "plan": {
    "treatments": ["Prescribed Flexeril 10mg", "Norco 5/325 for pain"],
    "referrals": ["Orthopedic surgery consultation", "Physical therapy"],
    "imaging_ordered": ["MRI lumbar spine", "MRI cervical spine"],
    "work_status": {
      "restriction": "off_work|light_duty|full_duty",
      "start_date": "2024-03-15",
      "end_date": "2024-04-01",
      "specific_restrictions": "No lifting over 10 lbs, no prolonged sitting"
    },
    "follow_up": "Return in 1 week or sooner if symptoms worsen"
  },
  "notable_quotes": [
    {
      "quote": "Patient states pain began immediately after the accident",
      "bates_page": "SMITH_0052",
      "citation": "[SMITH_0052]"
    },
    {
      "quote": "No prior history of back problems per patient report",
      "bates_page": "SMITH_0053",
      "citation": "[SMITH_0053]"
    }
  ],
  "red_flags": [],
  "source_citation": {
    "bates_range": "SMITH_0050-0058",
    "document_name": "Memorial Hospital ER Records",
    "source_pages": "1-9",
    "citation_string": "[SMITH_0050-0058]"
  }
}

2.3 Diagnostic Imaging Extraction

For MRI, CT, X-ray, EMG reports:

{
  "study_type": "MRI|CT|X-ray|EMG|NCV",
  "body_part": "lumbar_spine",
  "date": "2024-04-05",
  "facility": "Advanced Imaging Center",
  "ordering_physician": "Dr. Chen",
  "interpreting_radiologist": "Dr. Sarah Johnson, MD",
  "clinical_indication": "Low back pain with left leg radiculopathy following MVA",
  "technique": "Description of how study was performed",
  "findings": {
    "positive": [
      {
        "finding": "L4-L5 disc herniation",
        "details": "Central and left paracentral disc herniation measuring 5mm, contacting and mildly displacing the left L5 nerve root",
        "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0112]"
      },
      {
        "finding": "Mild neural foraminal narrowing",
        "details": "Left L4-L5 foramen",
        "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0112]"
      }
    ],
    "negative": [
      "No fracture identified",
      "No significant spinal stenosis",
      "Conus medullaris normal in position and signal"
    ],
    "degenerative": [
      {
        "finding": "Mild disc desiccation L3-L4, L4-L5",
        "significance": "Age-appropriate degenerative changes",
        "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0113]"
      }
    ]
  },
  "impression": "Radiologist's summary impression",
  "comparison": "Compared to prior study dated X if applicable",
  "clinical_correlation": "Findings correlate with left L5 radiculopathy",
  "source_citation": {
    "bates_range": "SMITH_0110-0115",
    "document_name": "Advanced Imaging MRI Lumbar Spine",
    "citation_string": "[SMITH_0110-0115]"
  }
}

2.4 Bill Extraction

For each medical bill/statement:

{
  "provider": "Memorial Hospital",
  "service_date": "2024-03-15",
  "service_date_range": {
    "start": "2024-03-15",
    "end": "2024-03-15"
  },
  "billed_amount": 4850.00,
  "adjustments": 1200.00,
  "insurance_paid": 3200.00,
  "patient_responsibility": 450.00,
  "balance_due": 450.00,
  "services": [
    {
      "cpt_code": "99285",
      "description": "ED visit, high complexity",
      "amount": 2500.00
    },
    {
      "cpt_code": "72110",
      "description": "X-ray lumbar spine",
      "amount": 350.00
    }
  ],
  "is_related_to_incident": true,
  "relatedness_confidence": "high|medium|low",
  "notes": "Any relevant notes",
  "source_citation": {
    "bates_range": "SMITH_0200-0203",
    "document_name": "Memorial Hospital Itemized Bill",
    "citation_string": "[SMITH_0200-0203]"
  }
}

2.5 Deposition Extraction

For deposition transcripts:

{
  "deponent": {
    "name": "Jane Smith",
    "role": "plaintiff|defendant|fact_witness|expert_witness|treating_physician",
    "represented_by": "Attorney name if present"
  },
  "date": "2024-08-15",
  "location": "Law offices of Smith & Jones",
  "court_reporter": "Name",
  "pages": 150,
  "bates_range": {
    "start": "SMITH_DEP_0001",
    "end": "SMITH_DEP_0150"
  },
  "key_testimony": [
    {
      "topic": "Accident description",
      "summary": "Plaintiff testified she was stopped in traffic when struck from behind",
      "page_line": "45:12-46:8",
      "bates_pages": "SMITH_DEP_0045-0046",
      "verbatim_quote": "I was completely stopped. I saw him coming in my mirror and there was nothing I could do.",
      "significance": "Establishes defendant's fault",
      "citation_string": "[Smith Depo. 45:12-46:8, SMITH_DEP_0045-0046]"
    },
    {
      "topic": "Prior medical history",
      "summary": "Plaintiff denied any prior back problems",
      "page_line": "78:5-15",
      "bates_pages": "SMITH_DEP_0078",
      "significance": "Important for causation - no pre-existing condition",
      "citation_string": "[Smith Depo. 78:5-15, SMITH_DEP_0078]"
    }
  ],
  "admissions": [
    {
      "admission": "Plaintiff admitted she did not seek treatment for 3 days after accident",
      "page_line": "52:10-18",
      "bates_pages": "SMITH_DEP_0052",
      "mitigation": "Explained she thought pain would resolve on its own",
      "citation_string": "[Smith Depo. 52:10-18, SMITH_DEP_0052]"
    }
  ],
  "inconsistencies": [
    {
      "inconsistency": "Testified neck pain started day of accident, but ER records note 'no neck pain'",
      "depo_cite": "34:5-10",
      "depo_bates": "SMITH_DEP_0034",
      "document_cite": "Memorial ER record 3/15/24",
      "document_bates": "SMITH_0052",
      "severity": "moderate",
      "explanation": "May have been focused on back pain at ER, neck developed later",
      "citation_string": "[Smith Depo. 34:5-10, SMITH_DEP_0034; cf. SMITH_0052]"
    }
  ],
  "impeachment_opportunities": [],
  "credibility_assessment": "Overall credible, consistent with records",
  "follow_up_needed": [
    "Obtain Facebook records referenced at p. 112 [SMITH_DEP_0112]",
    "Subpoena prior chiropractor records mentioned at p. 89 [SMITH_DEP_0089]"
  ],
  "source_citation": {
    "bates_range": "SMITH_DEP_0001-0150",
    "document_name": "Deposition of Jane Smith",
    "citation_string": "[SMITH_DEP_0001-0150]"
  }
}

Phase 3: Analysis & Synthesis

3.1 Compile Medical Chronology

Create a unified, chronological timeline with Bates citations:

# Medical Chronology: [Patient Name]

**DOI:** [Date of Incident]

| Date | Provider | Type | Complaints | Objective Findings | Diagnoses | Treatment | Work Status | Bates Cite |
|------|----------|------|------------|-------------------|-----------|-----------|-------------|------------|
| 3/15/24 | Memorial ER | ER Visit | Neck pain 7/10, back pain 8/10, headache | Cervical tenderness, + SLR left | Cervical strain, lumbar strain | Flexeril, Norco, f/u PCP | Off work | [SMITH_0050-0058] |
| 3/18/24 | Dr. Johnson (PCP) | Office | Continued neck/back pain | Muscle spasm, reduced ROM | Same | Referral ortho, PT | Off work | [SMITH_0060-0065] |
| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |

3.2 Treatment Gap Analysis

Identify gaps between treatments:

{
  "gaps": [
    {
      "from_date": "2024-04-15",
      "from_provider": "Dr. Chen",
      "from_bates": "SMITH_0089",
      "to_date": "2024-05-20",
      "to_provider": "Physical Therapy",
      "to_bates": "SMITH_0095",
      "gap_days": 35,
      "severity": "significant",
      "explanation_in_records": "Patient stated work schedule prevented earlier appointment",
      "explanation_bates": "SMITH_0095",
      "risk_assessment": "Defense will likely highlight this gap"
    }
  ],
  "total_treatment_span": {
    "first_treatment": "2024-03-15",
    "first_treatment_bates": "SMITH_0050",
    "last_treatment": "2024-09-10",
    "last_treatment_bates": "SMITH_0180",
    "total_days": 179
  },
  "treatment_frequency": {
    "total_visits": 45,
    "average_days_between": 4
  }
}

3.3 Damages Compilation

{
  "economic_damages": {
    "past_medical": {
      "total_billed": 45250.00,
      "total_paid": 28500.00,
      "total_outstanding": 8750.00,
      "by_provider": [
        {
          "provider": "Memorial Hospital",
          "billed": 4850.00,
          "paid": 3200.00,
          "outstanding": 450.00,
          "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0200-0203]"
        }
      ],
      "by_category": {
        "emergency": 4850.00,
        "physician": 8500.00,
        "physical_therapy": 6400.00,
        "imaging": 5500.00,
        "injections": 12000.00,
        "surgery": 0,
        "dme": 500.00
      },
      "bill_summary_bates": "[SMITH_0200-0275]"
    },
    "future_medical": {
      "estimated_range": {
        "low": 15000.00,
        "high": 75000.00
      },
      "basis": "Surgical consultation recommends discectomy if conservative treatment fails",
      "basis_bates": "[SMITH_0175-0178]",
      "components": [
        {
          "item": "L4-L5 discectomy",
          "estimate": "45000-65000",
          "source": "Dr. Chen surgical estimate",
          "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0177]"
        },
        {
          "item": "Post-surgical PT",
          "estimate": "5000-8000",
          "source": "Standard of care"
        }
      ]
    },
    "lost_wages": {
      "past": {
        "amount": 9100.00,
        "period": "3/15/24 - 5/1/24",
        "days_missed": 32,
        "hourly_rate": 35.00,
        "documentation": "Employer letter, pay stubs, doctor notes",
        "bates_cites": {
          "employer_letter": "[SMITH_0280]",
          "pay_stubs": "[SMITH_0282-0290]",
          "work_restrictions": "[SMITH_0055, SMITH_0065, SMITH_0078]"
        }
      },
      "future": {
        "amount": 0,
        "basis": "Returned to full duty, no permanent restrictions yet"
      }
    },
    "lost_earning_capacity": {
      "claimed": false,
      "basis": null
    },
    "property_damage": {
      "vehicle_damage": 18500.00,
      "disposition": "Total loss",
      "gap_loss": 2100.00,
      "other_property": 0,
      "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0300-0305]"
    },
    "out_of_pocket": {
      "mileage": 450.00,
      "prescriptions": 380.00,
      "medical_equipment": 150.00,
      "other": 0,
      "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0310-0315]"
    },
    "total_economic": {
      "past_certain": 57880.00,
      "future_estimated": "15000-75000"
    }
  },
  "non_economic_damages": {
    "pain_and_suffering": {
      "physical_pain": {
        "description": "Daily neck and back pain for 7+ months",
        "current_level": "4-6/10 daily",
        "activities_affected": ["sleeping", "driving", "exercising", "playing with children"],
        "supporting_records": "[SMITH_0050-0180 throughout]"
      },
      "emotional_distress": {
        "description": "Anxiety when driving, frustration with limitations",
        "treatment": "No mental health treatment sought"
      },
      "loss_of_enjoyment": {
        "hobbies_affected": ["gardening", "hiking", "golf"],
        "duration": "Ongoing",
        "testimony_cite": "[Smith Depo. 95:10-97:5, SMITH_DEP_0095-0097]"
      }
    },
    "permanency": {
      "claimed": "Potential",
      "basis": "If surgery unsuccessful, estimated 8% whole person impairment per Dr. Chen",
      "basis_bates": "[SMITH_0178]",
      "rating": "Pending surgical outcome"
    }
  },
  "liens_and_reductions": {
    "health_insurance_lien": {
      "carrier": "Aetna",
      "amount": 28500.00,
      "type": "ERISA|state_law",
      "reduction_potential": "Typically negotiate to 50-60%",
      "estimated_payback": 14250.00,
      "lien_letter_bates": "[SMITH_0400-0402]"
    },
    "medicare_lien": null,
    "medicaid_lien": null,
    "workers_comp_lien": null,
    "child_support_lien": null,
    "attorney_lien": null
  }
}

3.4 Liability Analysis

{
  "liability_theory": {
    "primary": "Negligence - Defendant failed to maintain safe following distance and rear-ended plaintiff's stopped vehicle",
    "elements": {
      "duty": "Defendant owed duty to operate vehicle safely and maintain proper lookout",
      "breach": "Defendant failed to stop, struck plaintiff's vehicle from behind",
      "causation": "Collision directly caused plaintiff's injuries",
      "damages": "Documented medical treatment and bills"
    }
  },
  "supporting_evidence": [
    {
      "evidence": "Police report",
      "significance": "Officer found defendant at fault, issued citation",
      "strength": "strong",
      "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0001-0008]"
    },
    {
      "evidence": "Defendant's statement to police",
      "significance": "Admitted 'didn't see traffic had stopped'",
      "strength": "strong",
      "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0005]"
    },
    {
      "evidence": "Vehicle damage photos",
      "significance": "Rear-end damage pattern consistent with plaintiff's account",
      "strength": "moderate",
      "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0320-0328]"
    }
  ],
  "potential_defenses": [
    {
      "defense": "Comparative negligence",
      "basis": "None apparent - plaintiff was stopped in traffic",
      "risk_level": "low",
      "response": "Clear rear-end presumption applies"
    },
    {
      "defense": "Pre-existing condition",
      "basis": "Defense will argue degenerative changes on MRI",
      "risk_level": "moderate",
      "response": "All treating physicians opine trauma aggravated condition; plaintiff was asymptomatic before accident",
      "supporting_cites": "[SMITH_0065 (Dr. Johnson); SMITH_0089 (Dr. Chen); SMITH_0113 (radiology)]"
    },
    {
      "defense": "Failure to mitigate",
      "basis": "35-day treatment gap in May",
      "risk_level": "low",
      "response": "Gap explained by work schedule; treatment otherwise consistent",
      "supporting_cite": "[SMITH_0095]"
    }
  ],
  "comparative_fault_assessment": {
    "plaintiff_percentage": 0,
    "basis": "Pure rear-end collision with stopped vehicle"
  },
  "liability_conclusion": {
    "strength": "strong",
    "percentage_likelihood": 95,
    "summary": "Clear liability. Defendant rear-ended plaintiff's stopped vehicle, was cited by police, and admitted fault. No viable comparative fault argument."
  }
}

Phase 4: Red Flag Identification

Red Flag Categories

Systematically check for each category:

{
  "red_flags": {
    "treatment_gaps": [
      {
        "flag": "35-day gap between orthopedic visit and PT start",
        "severity": "moderate",
        "mitigation": "Work schedule conflict documented",
        "mitigation_bates": "[SMITH_0095]",
        "recommendation": "Get declaration from plaintiff explaining gap"
      }
    ],
    "prior_injuries": [
      {
        "flag": "2019 chiropractic treatment mentioned in records",
        "details": "Dr. Chen note: 'Patient reports prior chiropractic care 2019'",
        "details_bates": "[SMITH_0087]",
        "severity": "moderate",
        "recommendation": "Subpoena 2019 chiro records to verify different body part or resolution"
      }
    ],
    "prior_claims": [],
    "inconsistent_statements": [
      {
        "flag": "Speed estimate varies",
        "details": "Told police 'about 35 mph', testified at depo '35-40 mph', told Dr. Chen '40+ mph'",
        "source_cites": {
          "police_report": "[SMITH_0003]",
          "deposition": "[Smith Depo. 42:8, SMITH_DEP_0042]",
          "medical_record": "[SMITH_0087]"
        },
        "severity": "low",
        "mitigation": "Minor variation in estimate, not material"
      }
    ],
    "credibility_concerns": [],
    "documentation_issues": [
      {
        "flag": "Illegible handwriting in 4/22/24 PT notes",
        "bates_cite": "[SMITH_0102-0104]",
        "severity": "low",
        "recommendation": "Request typed summary from PT"
      }
    ],
    "causation_issues": [
      {
        "flag": "Pre-existing degenerative changes on MRI",
        "details": "Radiologist noted 'age-appropriate degenerative changes at L3-L4, L4-L5'",
        "details_bates": "[SMITH_0113]",
        "severity": "moderate",
        "mitigation": "All treaters attribute symptoms to accident; plaintiff asymptomatic before",
        "mitigation_bates": "[SMITH_0065, SMITH_0089]",
        "recommendation": "Obtain pre-accident records confirming no prior back complaints"
      }
    ],
    "damages_concerns": [
      {
        "flag": "Moderate vehicle damage vs. claimed injuries",
        "details": "$18,500 total loss but claiming disc herniation",
        "details_bates": "[SMITH_0300-0305 (damage estimate); SMITH_0112 (MRI)]",
        "severity": "moderate",
        "mitigation": "Speed of impact matters more than repair cost; plaintiff's vehicle was economy car",
        "recommendation": "Obtain biomechanical expert if defense retains one"
      }
    ],
    "social_media_risk": {
      "checked": false,
      "recommendation": "Conduct social media review before proceeding"
    },
    "surveillance_risk": {
      "level": "moderate",
      "basis": "Continued claims of limitation while working full duty",
      "basis_bates": "[SMITH_0180 (current restrictions); SMITH_0285 (return to work)]",
      "recommendation": "Advise client to be consistent in daily activities"
    }
  }
}

Phase 5: Valuation & Recommendations

5.1 Case Valuation

{
  "valuation": {
    "special_damages": {
      "past_medical_billed": 45250.00,
      "past_medical_paid": 28500.00,
      "lost_wages": 9100.00,
      "property_damage": 2100.00,
      "out_of_pocket": 980.00,
      "total_past_specials": 57430.00,
      "documentation_bates": "[SMITH_0200-0315]"
    },
    "multiplier_analysis": {
      "conservative": {
        "multiplier": 1.5,
        "basis": "Defense view: soft tissue, returned to work",
        "general_damages": 86145.00,
        "total_value": 143575.00
      },
      "moderate": {
        "multiplier": 2.5,
        "basis": "Realistic: disc herniation with objective findings [SMITH_0112]",
        "general_damages": 143575.00,
        "total_value": 200725.00
      },
      "aggressive": {
        "multiplier": 4.0,
        "basis": "If surgery proceeds and successful",
        "general_damages": 229720.00,
        "total_value": 287150.00
      }
    },
    "verdict_research": {
      "venue": "Santa Clara County Superior Court",
      "comparable_verdicts": [
        {
          "case": "Smith v. Jones (2023)",
          "injuries": "L5-S1 herniation, no surgery",
          "specials": 52000,
          "verdict": 185000,
          "multiplier": 3.6
        }
      ],
      "venue_tendency": "Moderate plaintiff county"
    },
    "settlement_ranges": {
      "floor": {
        "amount": 75000,
        "basis": "Minimum acceptable given clear liability and documented injuries"
      },
      "target": {
        "amount": 125000,
        "basis": "Realistic settlement with current treatment"
      },
      "ceiling": {
        "amount": 200000,
        "basis": "If surgery proceeds or strong pre-trial posture"
      },
      "policy_limits": {
        "available": 100000,
        "recommendation": "Demand at limits; evaluate UM/UIM if inadequate"
      }
    },
    "net_to_client_estimate": {
      "gross_settlement": 100000,
      "less_attorney_fee_33": 33333,
      "less_costs_estimate": 5000,
      "less_lien_payback": 14250,
      "net_to_client": 47417,
      "note": "Assumes successful lien negotiation to 50%"
    }
  }
}

5.2 Recommendations

{
  "recommendations": {
    "immediate_actions": [
      {
        "action": "Conduct social media review",
        "priority": "high",
        "deadline": "Before demand",
        "assigned_to": "Paralegal"
      },
      {
        "action": "Subpoena 2019 chiropractic records",
        "priority": "high",
        "deadline": "30 days",
        "reason": "Confirm prior treatment was different body part",
        "reference_bates": "[SMITH_0087]"
      },
      {
        "action": "Obtain pre-accident PCP records (5 years)",
        "priority": "high",
        "deadline": "30 days",
        "reason": "Establish no prior back complaints"
      }
    ],
    "case_strategy": {
      "liability_approach": "Emphasize clear fault, police citation [SMITH_0001-0008], defendant admission [SMITH_0005]",
      "damages_approach": "Focus on objective findings (MRI [SMITH_0110-0115], EMG), consistent treatment, impact on daily life",
      "settlement_strategy": "Demand policy limits based on current treatment; preserve right to pursue UM/UIM",
      "litigation_readiness": "Case is litigation-ready if needed"
    },
    "discovery_needed": [
      "Defendant's cell phone records (distraction theory)",
      "Defendant's driving history",
      "Prior claims history (ISO search)"
    ],
    "experts_needed": [
      {
        "type": "Treating physician testimony",
        "status": "Available - Dr. Chen willing to testify",
        "cost_estimate": 3500
      },
      {
        "type": "Biomechanical expert",
        "status": "Retain only if defense retains",
        "cost_estimate": 7500
      }
    ],
    "case_assessment": {
      "overall_strength": "strong",
      "recommendation": "Proceed with case",
      "confidence": "high",
      "key_strengths": [
        "Clear liability with citation [SMITH_0001-0008]",
        "Same-day treatment [SMITH_0050-0058]",
        "Objective findings support complaints [SMITH_0110-0115]",
        "Consistent treatment [SMITH_0050-0180]",
        "Sympathetic plaintiff [Smith Depo., SMITH_DEP_0001-0150]"
      ],
      "key_challenges": [
        "Pre-existing degenerative changes [SMITH_0113]",
        "Moderate property damage [SMITH_0300-0305]",
        "Treatment gap in May [SMITH_0089 to SMITH_0095]"
      ]
    }
  }
}

Output Format: Case Evaluation Summary

Generate the final summary in this structure:

# CASE EVALUATION SUMMARY

## Case Information

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| Case Name | [Plaintiff] v. [Defendant] |
| Date of Incident | [Date] |
| Case Type | [Motor Vehicle Accident / Premises Liability / etc.] |
| Date of Report | [Today] |
| Prepared By | [AI Assistant] |
| Bates Range | [First Bates] - [Last Bates] |

---

## Citation Key

This summary uses Bates number citations in brackets. Reference key:

| Prefix | Source |
|--------|--------|
| SMITH_ | Plaintiff's production |
| SMITH_DEP_ | Plaintiff's deposition transcript |
| DEF_ | Defendant's production |

---

## I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

[2-3 paragraph overview of the case, key facts, injuries, and valuation range]

---

## II. PARTIES

### Plaintiff

- **Name:** 
- **DOB:** 
- **Address:** 
- **Employment:** 

### Defendant

- **Name:** 
- **Insurance:** 
- **Policy Limits:** 

### Witnesses

[List with contact info and summary of anticipated testimony, with Bates cites to statements]

---

## III. FACTUAL SUMMARY

[Chronological narrative of the incident and aftermath with Bates citations]

Example: On March 15, 2024, plaintiff was traveling northbound on Highway 101 when she was struck from behind by defendant's vehicle. [SMITH_0001-0008] The investigating officer cited defendant for following too closely. [SMITH_0006] Defendant admitted to the officer that he "didn't see traffic had stopped." [SMITH_0005]

---

## IV. LIABILITY ANALYSIS

### Theory of Liability

[Explain negligence elements with supporting citations]

### Supporting Evidence

| Evidence | Significance | Strength | Citation |
|----------|--------------|----------|----------|
| Police report | Officer found defendant at fault | Strong | [SMITH_0001-0008] |
| Defendant admission | "Didn't see traffic had stopped" | Strong | [SMITH_0005] |

### Potential Defenses

[Analysis of each potential defense with citations to rebuttal evidence]

### Liability Assessment

| Factor | Assessment |
|--------|------------|
| Strength | [Strong/Moderate/Weak] |
| Comparative Fault Risk | [Percentage] |

---

## V. MEDICAL SUMMARY

### Injuries Claimed

[Bulleted list of injuries with ICD codes and supporting citations]

### Treatment Timeline

| Date | Provider | Type | Key Findings | Citation |
|------|----------|------|--------------|----------|
| 3/15/24 | Memorial ER | ER Visit | Cervical strain, lumbar strain | [SMITH_0050-0058] |

### Current Status

[Where is plaintiff now medically, with citation]

### Causation

[Medical causation analysis with citations to physician opinions]

---

## VI. DAMAGES

### Economic Damages

| Category | Amount | Citation |
|----------|--------|----------|
| Past Medical (Billed) | $ | [SMITH_0200-0275] |
| Past Medical (Paid) | $ | |
| Lost Wages | $ | [SMITH_0280-0290] |
| Property Damage | $ | [SMITH_0300-0305] |
| Out of Pocket | $ | [SMITH_0310-0315] |
| **Total Past Economic** | **$** | |
| Future Medical (Est.) | $ | [SMITH_0177] |
| Future Lost Wages | $ | |

### Non-Economic Damages

[Narrative of pain, suffering, loss of enjoyment with citations to testimony and records]

### Liens

| Lienholder | Amount | Estimated Payback | Citation |
|------------|--------|-------------------|----------|
| [Carrier] | $ | $ | [SMITH_0400-0402] |

---

## VII. STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

### Strengths

1. [Strength 1] [Citation]
2. [Strength 2] [Citation]

### Weaknesses

1. [Weakness 1] [Citation]
2. [Weakness 2] [Citation]

### Red Flags

[List any significant concerns with citations]

---

## VIII. VALUATION

### Settlement Range

| Level | Amount | Basis |
|-------|--------|-------|
| Floor | $[amount] | [basis] |
| Target | $[amount] | [basis] |
| Ceiling | $[amount] | [basis] |

### Verdict Potential

[Analysis of trial value in venue]

### Net to Client Estimate

[Breakdown showing fees, costs, liens]

---

## IX. RECOMMENDATIONS

### Immediate Actions

1. [Action 1]
2. [Action 2]

### Case Strategy

[Strategic recommendations]

### Discovery Needed

[Outstanding discovery]

### Experts Needed

[Expert requirements]

---

## X. CONCLUSION

[Final assessment and recommendation to proceed/settle/decline]

---

## ATTACHMENTS

1. Medical Chronology (Detailed) with Bates Citations
2. Bill Summary with Bates Citations
3. Document Index with Bates Ranges
4. Bates Number Master Index
5. [Other attachments]

Bates Index Attachment Format

Include as a standard attachment:

# BATES NUMBER INDEX

## Production Summary

| Prefix | Party | Range | Page Count | Description |
|--------|-------|-------|------------|-------------|
| SMITH_ | Plaintiff | 0001-0523 | 523 | Plaintiff's initial production |
| SMITH_DEP_ | Plaintiff | 0001-0150 | 150 | Plaintiff's deposition |
| DEF_ | Defendant | 000001-001247 | 1,247 | Defendant's production |

## Document-Level Index

| Bates Range | Document | Provider/Source | Date(s) | Category |
|-------------|----------|-----------------|---------|----------|
| SMITH_0001-0008 | CHP Traffic Collision Report | CHP | 3/15/24 | incident_report |
| SMITH_0050-0058 | ER Records | Memorial Hospital | 3/15/24 | medical_record |
| SMITH_0060-0065 | Office Visit Notes | Dr. Johnson | 3/18/24 | medical_record |
| SMITH_0110-0115 | MRI Lumbar Spine | Advanced Imaging | 4/5/24 | imaging_report |
| SMITH_0200-0203 | Itemized Bill | Memorial Hospital | 3/15/24 | medical_bill |
| SMITH_DEP_0001-0150 | Deposition Transcript | Jane Smith | 8/15/24 | deposition |

## Key Document Quick Reference

| Document Type | Bates Location |
|---------------|----------------|
| Police Report | SMITH_0001-0008 |
| First Treatment | SMITH_0050-0058 |
| MRI Reports | SMITH_0110-0125 |
| Surgical Consultation | SMITH_0175-0178 |
| Bills | SMITH_0200-0275 |
| Employment Records | SMITH_0280-0295 |
| Property Damage | SMITH_0300-0328 |
| Insurance/Liens | SMITH_0400-0420 |
| Plaintiff Deposition | SMITH_DEP_0001-0150 |

Iteration and Refinement

When the user asks to refine or update the summary:

"Focus more on X" - Expand that section with additional detail
"The medical is wrong" - Re-extract from source documents
"Add this information" - Incorporate new facts
"Make it more/less formal" - Adjust tone
"Prepare for mediation" - Shift framing to settlement-focused
"Prepare for trial" - Shift framing to jury persuasion
"Remove Bates citations" - Switch to document/page citations
"Add Bates to X section" - Ensure all citations in that section include Bates

Always maintain Bates citations to source documents for all factual claims (when Bates numbers are available).

Quality Checklist

Before finalizing any case summary, verify:

[ ] All dates are consistent across sections
[ ] Medical providers match between chronology and bill summary
[ ] Damage totals are mathematically correct
[ ] All red flags have been addressed or noted
[ ] Recommendations are actionable and specific
[ ] Bates citations are included for all factual claims (when available)
[ ] Bates ranges are accurate and don't overlap incorrectly
[ ] Bates index attachment is complete
[ ] No speculation presented as fact
[ ] Privileged information properly marked
[ ] Client name and identifiers consistent throughout

Citation Fallback Rules

When Bates numbers are NOT available:

Use document filename + page number: [Memorial_ER_Records.pdf, p. 3]
Use document description + date + page: [Memorial Hospital ER Records 3/15/24, p. 3]
For depositions without Bates: [Smith Depo. 45:12-46:8]

Always note in the summary header if documents lack Bates numbering:

**Citation Note:** Documents in this matter have not been Bates-stamped. Citations reference source document filenames and page numbers.

Version History

v1.0 (2025-01-02): Initial skill creation
v1.1 (2025-01-09): Added Bates number citation support as default; added Bates index attachment format; updated all extraction schemas with Bates fields; added citation fallback rules
Future versions will refine extraction accuracy and add case-type specific modules

Case Summary