#Short answer
Archiving keeps the client record but treats it as inactive. Deleting removes the record and may be blocked when related data exists. In legal practice, archiving is usually the better choice for former clients or closed work.
Practice note: For legal records, archiving is usually safer than deleting because it preserves history while keeping active lists clean.
#How to use this in practice
- Open the relevant Beagle section or setting described above.
- Confirm you are working in the correct firm, client, matter, or date range.
- Enter or review the information carefully before saving, billing, exporting, or relying on the record.
- If the item affects billing, trust funds, deadlines, or case history, review it a second time before sending anything to a client or using it for a report.
#What to watch for
- Beagle is designed to preserve law-office context. Prefer accurate, plain-language descriptions over shorthand only you understand.
- If a record is connected to billing, a client, or a matter, changes may affect reports, invoices, or matter history.
- When in doubt, archive inactive records rather than deleting them.