If this sounds like your week
When Windows Search gets in the way
legal matter folder names can contain client names, dates, and case identifiers that must remain local. Windows Search may find files while SaaS search tools attach query and path metadata to accounts. encrypted storage, PDF OCR, and browser-based practice tools already load the workstation.
Where tooling usually breaks
Why local-first matters
index.db, config.json, and logs stay under %APPDATA%\SearchSentinel instead of a vendor-hosted workspace. Search queries are not uploaded for AI enhancement, analytics, or ad targeting. You buy the app once and keep the search index as a local workstation asset.
Technical proof points
- Local index.db - 7-day logs - Release path redaction - SQLite FTS5 - Local-first storage - No network logger