Investigation notes are most useful when another reviewer can understand what was recorded, when it was recorded, where the information came from and what happened next.
What to record
A general note can include date and time, note type, subject or issue, source, factual summary, related case item, follow-up needed, owner and status.
Separate observation from information received
Make clear whether a note records something directly observed, information provided by another source or an analytical question.
Use dates precisely
The date a note is created may differ from the date of the event it describes. Preserve both when they matter.
Move important facts into the case structure
Material events belong in the timeline, new inquiries in the lead log, new records in the source log and tasks in the action tracker.
Keep follow-up visible
If a note creates a next step, record that step in a trackable location.
Start with the free CaseWorks Investigation Timeline Template, then compare additional resources on the Investigation Templates page.
Example investigation note and follow-up
Fictional example: Note recorded October 8 at 10:15 a.m.; reported event October 6 at approximately 3:00 p.m.; source: interview with Witness A; summary: Witness A recalls a delivery near the rear entrance but is uncertain of the time. Verification status: uncorroborated. Follow-up: compare delivery records and camera coverage; owner: assigned reviewer; status: open.
Record the reported event in the chronology with its uncertainty intact, preserve the interview as its source, and track the verification request as a separate action. This prevents a recollection from being treated as a confirmed event.
For a reusable paid workflow connecting notes, source references, chronology and assigned follow-up, see the Investigation Case File Template & Case Management System. Review its actual worksheet previews before purchasing.
CaseWorks resources are general organizational tools, not official forms or legal advice.