In an age of legal, clinical, and fiscal accountability, record keeping is an important component of professional counseling. The second edition of this book is intended to be used to: (1) explain the uses of a case record and who has access to it; (2) comprehend everyday problems associated with ineffective communication, including how records can be used against a person; (3) increase the awareness of legal trends; (4) demonstrate how records can be used to enhance the service relationship and promote consumer empowerment; and (5) help counselors face the challenges of accountability and ensure their ability to meet human needs. The overall goal of this publication is to help with risk management. The principles included are relevant to the job experience of all social service and health care professionals. Sections are included on the following topics: "Documentation: An Attorney's Perspective"; "A Comparison: Testifying in Court and Documenting in the Record"; "Documentation: An Auditor's Perspective"; "Electronic Records and Traditional Paper Records"; "Documentation: A Co-Worker's Perspective"; "Essential Elements in the Initial Assessment"; and "Documentation: A Client's Perspective." (Contains 20 references and lists 15 Web sites.) (JDM)