Adding an Expense_ Hard vs Soft

Updated March 26, 2026

This guide provides essential insights into managing expenses in personal injury cases, distinguishing between hard and soft expenses. Understanding these categories is crucial for accurate financial tracking and reimbursement during settlements. By following the outlined steps, users can efficiently add and manage expenses, ensuring compliance and clarity in their financial records. This resource is invaluable for legal professionals seeking to streamline their accounting processes and enhance their case management.


1. Step 1: Access Personal Injury Expense Screen

  1. Log In
    • Access LawAccounting/CaseQube using your secured credentials.
  2. Navigate to Matter Tab
    • Select the Matter that you are using
  3. Navigate to Expense Screen
    • Click More
    • Click Expense

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2. Step 2: Understanding Soft vs Hard Expense

Soft Expenses: Soft expenses are internal firm costs that do not require issuing a check to an external party.

  • Printing

  • Copies

  • Internal administrative costs

How They Are Used in Settlement

Soft expenses are also reimbursed from the settlement but are tracked separately from hard expenses.

Hard Expenses: Hard expenses are costs paid to third-party vendors on behalf of the client.

Examples

  • Investigators

  • Medical record services

  • Expert witnesses

How They Are Used in Settlement

Hard expenses are reimbursed to the firm from the settlement proceeds.

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3. Step 3: Adding a New Expense

  • Click New
  • Fill in New Expense Sheet
    • Expense Name: A short description of the expense (what the cost was for).
    • Amount: The total cost of the expense, including taxes and tips if applicable.
    • Date: The date the expense was incurred.
    • Payee: The individual or business that received the payment.
    • Reductions: Any amounts deducted from the expense (e.g., reimbursements, discounts, personal portion).
    • Matter: The specific matter, project, or case the expense relates to.
    • Client: The client associated with the matter or project.
    • Note: Additional context or explanation for the expense, if needed for approval or record-keeping.
  • When Finished Click Save

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