PDC | INSTRUCTION AND QUOTATION CHECKLIST
Free preparation template | Version 1.0 | October 2026

Use this sheet to prepare questions. It is not a contract or legal advice.
Tick a box only when the point has been discussed and recorded.

THE OBJECTIVE
[ ] The precise question and intended use of the findings are clear.
[ ] The instructing party and its authority have been identified.
[ ] Facts, allegations and uncertain information are distinguished.
[ ] Any legal, court, bank or other professional involvement is explained.

THE PROPOSED WORK
[ ] Methods and the first stage are described in plain language.
[ ] Necessary access, authority and relevant restrictions are understood.
[ ] What is excluded and what cannot be guaranteed are clear.
[ ] A review point is agreed before wider work is considered.

FEES AND CHANGES
[ ] The charging basis is recorded (ask which basis applies).
[ ] Expenses and applicable tax are explained.
[ ] Any spending limit states what it includes.
[ ] The person who can approve extra work is identified.
[ ] Payment stages, cancellation and stopping arrangements are understood.
[ ] Any conditional-fee wording is defined in the written terms.

REPORTING AND INFORMATION
[ ] The report format and intended recipients are agreed.
[ ] Update arrangements and urgent contact routes are recorded.
[ ] A suitable method for transferring sensitive material is agreed.
[ ] Retention arrangements and applicable confidentiality limits are explained.
[ ] Questions about legal privilege are referred to the legal adviser.

ADDITIONAL CHECKS FOR SERVICE OF LEGAL DOCUMENTS
[ ] Court or tribunal, case reference and jurisdiction are identified.
[ ] The correct documents and every attachment are listed.
[ ] The recipient's correct legal name is confirmed.
[ ] Address information includes its source, age and confidence.
[ ] Deadline and permitted method are confirmed by the legal adviser.
[ ] Relevant orders or directions are supplied through the agreed method.
[ ] Practical access difficulties and safety concerns are explained.
[ ] Required evidence of service and return deadline are specified.
[ ] Instructions for an unsuccessful attempt are agreed.

OPEN QUESTIONS
Question | Who will answer it | When needed


DECISION AFTER THE DISCUSSION
Agreed next step:
Items still awaiting confirmation:
Date for review:

Completing this checklist does not start an investigation or authorise a charge.
Keep completed copies privately and share only through an agreed channel.