8 Best Legal Document Automation Software in 2024

Advances in software and artificial intelligence (AI) are enabling the legal profession to automate more rote tasks. Solutions reduce the burden on attorneys and paralegals, driving up margins, reducing burnout, and enabling more client focus.

Unfortunately, not all lawyers are technically minded, limiting their capacity to choose a suitable solution. Dozens of software developers promise remarkable benefits, but which can produce the goods?

In this article, we’ll explore the best 8 legal document automation solutions in today’s market, helping you find solutions to drive success in your practice.

Before we talk about the best legal document automation software, let’s discuss the benefits of finding the right one in the first place.

Advantages of Automating Legal Documents

Automation comes with many obvious benefits, such as time savings, reduced costs, and more efficient workflows. However, it’s still worth looking into each potential advantage to see the importance of finding a solution that works for you.

Let’s dive into the key benefits of legal document automation:

1. Time Savings

Automating legal documents allows you to drastically cut down the time spent on repetitive tasks like drafting, reviewing, and revising.

Instead of manually creating each document from scratch, automation tools let you generate them in just a few clicks.

This efficiency frees up valuable hours, allowing attorneys and staff to focus on higher-value tasks like strategizing, client meetings, or case analysis.

2. Increased Accuracy

One of the biggest advantages of document automation is the reduction of human error. Automated systems make sure that documents are consistent and error-free, as they pull from pre-approved templates and standardized language.

This minimizes the risk of mistakes such as typos, omissions, or incorrect information, which can be costly and time-consuming to correct.

3. Cost Efficiency

By speeding up the document creation process, automation helps reduce labor costs associated with manual drafting.

Fewer hours spent on routine paperwork translates to lower operational expenses, which can make your practice more profitable. This cost efficiency is especially beneficial for small and mid-sized firms looking to maximize their resources.

4. Improved Client Service

With the time saved through automation, legal professionals can dedicate more attention to client needs.

Faster document turnaround times and reduced errors lead to a better client experience, improving satisfaction and potentially increasing client retention and referrals.

5. Consistency and Standardization

Automation ensures that all legal documents adhere to the same format, style, and standards.

This consistency not only enhances the professionalism of your documents but also ensures compliance with legal requirements.

Standardized templates make it easy to maintain a uniform appearance across all your firm’s documents, reducing the need for constant oversight.

6. Better Security and Compliance

Legal document automation tools often come with built-in security features like encryption and access controls.

These tools ensure that sensitive client information is protected and that your documents comply with industry regulations.

This added layer of security is a must for maintaining trust with clients and avoiding legal repercussions.

7. Scalability and Flexibility

As your firm grows, the volume of documents you need to manage will also increase. Automation provides the scalability needed to handle this growth without overwhelming your team.

Additionally, many automation tools are flexible, which allows you to customize templates and workflows to suit specific practice areas or client needs.

Best Legal Document Automation Software Tools of 2024

Now that you know the key advantages that legal document automation software can bring to your law firm, here are the best options you can choose from:

1. Briefpoint

Briefpoint is one of the leading document automation software specifically designed for legal practices. Over 500 law firms currently trust it to streamline the drafting of routine discovery responses and request drafting tasks, allowing attorneys to save time and focus on higher-value tasks.

As a specialized solution for the legal sector, Briefpoint automates requests for admission, requests for production, and interrogatories. These documents are time-consuming, but the document automation tool automates the process using the power of machine learning.

A standout feature of Briefpoint is Briefpoint Bridge, which simplifies client communication. This feature lets you collect client responses with ease.

It translates requests into plain English, sends them to your clients, and automatically integrates their responses into your discovery documents.

Briefpoint lets you schedule a demo to test its software at your firm. The solution is appropriate for people of all technical skills with almost no learning curve, saving an average of 87% of time spent on each document.

View Briefpoint’s pricing here.

Pros

Briefpoint significantly reduces the time spent on drafting discovery responses and other repetitive legal documents, which allows attorneys to focus on higher-value tasks.
Designed with legal professionals in mind, Briefpoint has a user-friendly interface that requires minimal training, making it accessible to users of all technical abilities.
Briefpoint is tailored specifically for the legal industry, with features that automate complex documents like requests for admission, requests for production, and interrogatories.
The platform leverages AI to scan and analyze documents and auto-populate information, which minimizes manual input and potential errors.
By automating routine tasks, Briefpoint can lead to significant cost savings per attorney, improving the overall profitability of your practice.

2. Clio

Source: Clio.com

Clio is a market leader in law office management and offers various legal document automation features as part of a suite of services.

The tool gives you control over your practice from a single dashboard, eliminating the need for complex integrations or straddling workflows.

Clio includes templates for legal documents, including letters, contracts, and pleadings. The drag-and-drop interface makes customizations and edits straightforward, avoiding the need for technical knowledge.

Furthermore, the software operates practice-wide via the cloud. Team members can access it anywhere, facilitating remote work and out-of-hours services.

That said, it is not perfect. While Clio offers some document automation, it is a tacked-on feature. Developers felt they had to include it after other vendors introduced more advanced solutions. Therefore, it doesn’t offer the customization features required for highly specialized needs.

Pricing can also be an issue. The subscription fee is per user, with some plans over $125 a month for every account you add.

Furthermore, it makes you pay extra to access integrations, which is problematic if you have invested heavily in your software stack already.

Pros

Clio offers a wide range of features beyond document automation, including case management, billing, time tracking, and client relationship management, making it an all-in-one solution for law firms.
Clio operates entirely in the cloud, allowing team members to access the platform from anywhere, which is particularly useful for remote work and out-of-office access.
The platform has an intuitive, drag-and-drop interface, so it’s easy for users of all technical levels to navigate and use.
Clio integrates with a broad range of other software, including Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and various legal research tools.
Clio offers customizable templates for a variety of legal documents, which simplifies the process of creating and managing legal paperwork.

Cons

Clio’s pricing can be on the higher side, especially for smaller firms. The subscription model charges per user, which can add up quickly if you have a large team.
While Clio includes document automation, it’s somewhat basic compared to specialized tools. For firms that need advanced document automation capabilities, Clio might fall short.
Some key integrations require additional fees, which can further increase the overall cost of using Clio.
Despite its user-friendly design, the comprehensive nature of Clio means there’s a learning curve, particularly for users unfamiliar with practice management software.
Some users have reported performance issues, such as slow loading times and occasional glitches, which can be frustrating when working on time-sensitive tasks.
The extensive features and functionalities may be overkill for solo practitioners or very small firms, who may find it more complex than necessary for their needs.

3. DocuSign

Source: DocuSign.com

DocuSign Signature doesn’t quite fall into the category of legal document automation software, but law offices use it extensively, so it is worth mentioning here.

Teams find it helpful to enable attorneys and clients to sign documents and track their progress over time. As such, it saves time compared to conventional paper-based signing workflows.

Other benefits include its mobile-friendliness, integration across platforms and reasonably advanced security.

Other solutions offer far more time-saving features. It also focuses on electronic signatures. While you can make edits, doing so is cumbersome.

Finally, you will need to pay a subscription if using the solution for high volumes of documents (a guarantee in most legal practices). Therefore, it is not a free tool, despite seeming like one.

Pros

DocuSign is widely recognized for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for both legal professionals and clients to sign documents electronically without any technical hurdles.
As one of the most popular e-signature platforms, DocuSign is trusted by millions of users worldwide, which helps ensure compatibility and familiarity for clients and other parties involved.
DocuSign is mobile-friendly, allowing users to sign documents and track their status on the go via smartphones and tablets, which is particularly useful for busy legal professionals.
DocuSign integrates seamlessly with a wide range of applications, including Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Salesforce, and many legal practice management tools, enhancing workflow efficiency.

Cons

While DocuSign excels at electronic signatures, its capabilities for full-scale document automation are limited compared to specialized legal document automation tools.
For law firms handling a high volume of documents, DocuSign’s pricing can become expensive, as it charges per envelope (a set of documents sent for signing).
DocuSign offers limited document editing features, making it cumbersome to make significant changes or customizations within the platform before signing.
Although basic features are easy to use, more advanced functionalities, like conditional fields and custom workflows, may require additional training or time to master.
DocuSign is not tailored specifically for the legal industry, meaning it lacks some of the specialized features and templates that other legal-focused platforms might offer.

4. PandaDoc

Source: PandaDoc.com

Another piece of legal document automation software is PandaDoc. Like Clio, it is an all-in-one platform, letting you generate documents, collect e-signatures, and leverage analytics.

Developers claim it can speed up paperwork by 40% (approximately two working days per week).

PandaDoc isn’t a legal-specific document automation platform but specializes in this area. Law firms can look forward to spending up to 80% less time creating documents, thanks to its template library and drag-and-drop editor.

It also has tools for expediting contract creation, avoiding the need to cut and paste (or even write) by hand. Built-in commenting assists with edits and helps to speed up negotiations for teams involved in commercial law.

The reason some teams avoid PandaDoc is the software’s complexity. While it offers a feature-rich interface and client experience, it also demands a steep learning curve.

To the developer’s credit, they provide instructions and training, but wading through this involves additional time investment.

Moreover, integrations with the software are challenging. Hiring an outside firm to complete them is often necessary.

Pros

PandaDoc offers a comprehensive solution that includes document creation, e-signatures, and workflow automation.
PandaDoc provides a wide range of customizable templates, allowing users to quickly generate professional-looking documents tailored to their specific needs.
The platform supports real-time collaboration, enabling multiple team members or clients to comment, edit, and negotiate documents simultaneously.
The drag-and-drop editor is intuitive, making it easy for users of all technical levels to create, customize, and manage documents without extensive training.
PandaDoc integrates with various CRM, payment, and productivity tools, including Salesforce, HubSpot, and Stripe, enhancing its functionality and making it easy to incorporate into existing workflows.

Cons

Despite its user-friendly interface, PandaDoc’s extensive features can be overwhelming for new users, requiring time and effort to fully understand and utilize all the available tools.
PandaDoc’s pricing can be confusing, with different plans and add-ons that can quickly increase costs, especially for firms that need access to advanced features.
While PandaDoc is powerful for general document automation, it is not specifically designed for the legal industry, which means it may lack some specialized tools and templates that legal professionals require.
Some users report difficulties integrating PandaDoc with other niche legal software, which can limit its effectiveness for firms that rely heavily on specific legal tech tools.
PandaDoc is heavily marketed toward sales and marketing teams, meaning some of its features and workflows are more tailored to those areas rather than to legal or other specialized fields.

5. HotDocs

Source: Hotdocs.com

HotDocs is also a strong contender for best legal document automation software. The tool claims that it enables law practices to process documents up to 90% faster than manual generation (including industry-standard cut-and-paste methods).

Again, the goal is to help you focus on your clients instead of creating tedious documents.

HotDocs is an established legal document automation software player with a proven track record and broad user base. Law offices use it for its hundreds of pre-built templates for various legal specialties and its flexibility.

The tool can also integrate with other legal software and CRMs, reducing implementation complexity. You can even use it offline – great for professionals on the subway or far from WiFi.

Even so, HotDocs still has weaknesses. While it can generate complex documents, it often lacks visual appeal. Law practices sometimes feel disappointed that they don’t look professional enough.

Furthermore, updating templates with scripts is time-consuming. The AI won’t do it for you, no matter how nicely you ask.

Finally, there’s a steeper learning curve than many of the more straightforward options on the market. Therefore, it is more geared towards law firms with significant technical expertise and large budgets.

Pros

HotDocs is a well-established player in the legal document automation space, with a long history of serving law firms, financial institutions, and government agencies.
HotDocs offers a vast library of pre-built templates for various legal documents, which can be customized to suit the specific needs of different practice areas.
The platform allows for the automation of complex legal documents, including the ability to create sophisticated templates with conditional logic, which reduces manual drafting time and errors.
HotDocs integrates with other legal and business software, including case management systems and CRMs, allowing for a seamless flow of information and better workflow efficiency.
Unlike some other document automation tools, HotDocs can be used offline, which is beneficial for legal professionals who need to work without a constant internet connection.

Cons

HotDocs is powerful but can be complex to set up and use, particularly for those who are not technically inclined. The advanced features require significant training and experience to master.
The platform can be expensive, particularly for smaller firms. The initial setup, customization, and ongoing maintenance costs may be prohibitive for those with limited budgets.
Some users find the user interface to be less modern and intuitive compared to newer document automation tools, which can affect the overall user experience.
While HotDocs is effective at generating documents, the output may lack the polished, professional look that some firms desire. Customizing templates to improve visual appeal can be time-consuming.
Updating or modifying existing templates can be cumbersome, especially for users who are not familiar with the system’s scripting and logic features. This can lead to inefficiencies when changes are needed.

6. Bryter

Source: Bryter.com

Bryter goes even further, claiming users can save 95% of their time on manual work with its document assembly software.

The solution helps law practices automate routine document drafting, remove errors, reduce risks, and get data-driven insights.

Systems prevent internal clients from generating inaccurate documents while eliminating mistakes with standardized templates.

Bryter’s main selling point is its no-code client portal approach. As such, it positions itself as the brand for the average law office. The intuitive decision-tree structure and user interface mean that most professionals with experience working on computers can use it.

Teamwork is also straightforward on the automation platform. Cloud-based collaboration features enable teams of any size to work together to process paperwork faster.

With that said Bryter’s document automation capabilities are somewhat limited. While the decision-tree functionality helps with legal decision-making, it focuses more on interactive approaches than traditional, bread-and-butter document generation. As such, some legal practices find it limiting.

It is also a newcomer to the market and doesn’t have the same pedigree as many more established platforms. As such, the community support base is smaller than the more prominent names.

Pros

Bryter is a no-code solution, meaning you can build and automate legal processes without needing any programming skills. This makes it accessible to legal professionals who may not have a technical background.
The platform is designed with ease of use in mind, featuring a decision-tree structure that simplifies the creation and automation of legal documents and processes.
Bryter allows users to automate a wide range of legal tasks, from document assembly to client intake processes, making it a versatile tool for various legal applications.
Bryter supports cloud-based collaboration, allowing teams of any size to work together on automating workflows and documents, which can improve efficiency and reduce errors.

Cons

While Bryter is powerful for process automation, it is a general-purpose tool and may lack some specialized features or templates that are specifically tailored to the legal industry.
Although it’s a no-code platform, creating more complex workflows or automation may require a deeper understanding of the tool, which could pose a challenge for some users.
Bryter’s pricing may be on the higher end, particularly for smaller firms or solo practitioners who may not need all the advanced features it offers.
As a relatively new player in the legal tech space, Bryter might not have the same level of community support or third-party integrations as more established platforms like HotDocs or Clio.
Bryter excels in automating processes and workflows, but it may not offer the same depth in document automation as some other specialized legal tools, which could be a limitation for firms focused heavily on document generation.

7. Formstack

Source: Formstack.com

Formstack rounds out our list of the best legal document automation software. This established player offers solutions that eliminate paperwork, automate documents (including personalized contract agreements and NDAs), collect e-signatures, and improve collaboration.

You also get security-related tools, such as controlling who can access paperwork via logic and routine tools. It also meets various legal standards, such as GDPR, PCI, and HIPAA, for any legal firms working with sensitive information.

Formstack regularly collects data on the time its tools save its team members. Most can cut 17 hours or more from their week using the solution.

That said, it remains a form-building tool, not exclusively for legal automation. Its document generation capabilities are also surprisingly basic for such a professional tool.

Unlike Briefpoint, it doesn’t make extensive use of AI to highlight and track documents as negotiations unfold, making it less practical for legal firms wanting to eliminate the most time-consuming elements of their work.

Finally, integrating it with niche legal applications is challenging. It doesn’t work seamlessly with all platforms.

Pros

Formstack is known for its powerful and easy-to-use form-building capabilities, allowing users to create and customize a wide range of forms, including those for legal document automation, client intake, and more.
Formstack offers tools to automate the creation of documents like contracts, NDAs, and agreements, helping law firms reduce manual paperwork and streamline processes.
Formstack integrates with a variety of applications, including CRMs, payment processors, and email marketing platforms, which enhances its functionality and fits into existing workflows seamlessly.
The platform is mobile-optimized, allowing users to create, manage, and complete forms and documents from any device, which is convenient for on-the-go legal professionals.

Cons

While Formstack is versatile, it is not specifically designed for the legal industry, so it may lack some specialized features and templates that other legal document automation tools provide.
The document automation capabilities, while useful, are more basic compared to platforms that are solely focused on legal document automation, which might be a drawback for firms with complex needs.
Formstack’s pricing can be complicated, with different plans and add-ons that can increase costs, especially for firms that need access to advanced features or higher usage limits.
Although the form builder is intuitive, some of the more advanced features, such as complex workflows or integrations, may require additional time and effort to master.

8. Gavel

Source: Gavel

Gavel (formerly known as Documate) is a no-code platform that offers legal professionals a way to streamline document drafting without needing technical expertise. Gavel allows law firms to automate routine legal documents, such as contracts, NDAs, and client intake forms, focusing on simplicity and customization.

The platform shines with its drag-and-drop editor, which allows users to create tailored workflows and templates for a wide range of legal matters. Gavel also supports collaboration, allowing team members to work together in real time on reviewing and finalizing documents.

Its user-friendly design means that even those without technical knowledge can set up and run automated workflows with ease.

However, while Gavel is powerful, it is not the most comprehensive tool for complex legal automation needs. Firms that handle highly specialized or intricate legal documents may find the lack of advanced features limits the platform’s effectiveness.

Plus, it does not integrate as seamlessly with niche legal applications, which can pose challenges for larger firms with specific requirements.

Pros

Gavel allows users to automate document generation without needing coding skills, making it accessible for legal professionals at all levels of technical expertise.
Users can create and modify legal document templates, from contracts to client agreements, to meet different practice needs.
The platform supports real-time collaboration, enabling legal teams to work together on documents efficiently.
The intuitive drag-and-drop editor reduces the learning curve, which allows teams to quickly adopt and start using the software.
Gavel adheres to important legal standards like GDPR and HIPAA, ensuring data security for law firms handling sensitive client information.

Cons

While great for general document automation, Gavel may not be as robust as other tools when dealing with highly complex or specialized legal documents.
Gavel doesn’t integrate as seamlessly with some niche legal software, which could make it less suitable for firms that rely heavily on specific legal applications.
Larger firms with more intricate workflows or a high volume of complex legal documents may find Gavel’s capabilities somewhat limited.

The Best of Document Automation Tools

The legal world is changing fast, and adopting document automation software is becoming a must for law firms that want to streamline their work, cut costs, and focus more on clients.

The tools we’ve covered in this article are some of the top picks for 2024, each offering something different to meet various needs.

Whether you’re aiming to save time, maximize accuracy, or improve teamwork, there’s a solution out there that fits the bill. But with so many document automation platforms out there, finding the right one can feel overwhelming.

One tool that really stands out is Briefpoint. Designed specifically for legal professionals, Briefpoint takes care of the repetitive stuff—like discovery responses and requests for production—so you can save time and focus on what really matters: delivering great service to your clients.

Curious to see how Briefpoint can make a difference for your firm? Schedule a demo and find out how our document automation tech can help you save time, cut down on costs, and take your practice to the next level.

How Automated Legal Documents Can Save You Money

Discovery responses cost firms $23,240, per year, per attorney. $23,240 estimate assumes an associate attorney salary of $150,000 (including benefits – or $83 an hour), 20 cases per year/per associate, 4 discovery sets per case, 30 questions per set, 3.5 hours spent responding to each set, and 1800 hours of billable hours per year.

Under these assumptions, you save $20,477 using Briefpoint, per year, per attorney.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Best Legal Document Automation Software

What are the benefits of using legal document automation software?

Legal document automation software makes life easier by speeding up the whole document creation process. Instead of spending hours drafting and revising, these tools let you whip up documents quickly, cut down on mistakes, and keep things consistent. Plus, it frees legal professionals up to focus on more important tasks, like strategizing and spending time with clients.

What is the best legal document automation software in 2024?

There are several contenders for the best document automation software in 2024, including Briefpoint. However, it all boils down to the needs, preferences, and existing workflows of your legal services. Schedule a demo with Briefpoint to see if it’s the right document automation software for you.

How does legal document automation work?

Legal document automation works by handing over composition and writing tasks to templates and AI. Drag-and-drop interfaces enable rapid document construction without creating documents from scratch or cut-and-paste from existing libraries.

What other tools does my law firm need?

Aside from document automation software, you might also need legal practice management software, billing automation tools, a document management system, and payment processing platforms, among others to make your workflows as efficient as they can be.

Is legal document management software safe to use?

Yes. Most of these tools come packed with security features like encryption and access controls to keep complex legal documents and sensitive info under wraps. They also follow all the major legal standards like CCPA and HIPAA, so you can be confident that your client data is secure throughout the process.

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7 Best Legal AI Companies of 2024

The legal industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) integration.

While AI was initially met with skepticism and resistance by many legal professionals, fearing it would compromise job security and the accuracy of their work, its undeniable benefits have led to widespread adoption.

Today, AI is not just a trend but an indispensable tool in modern law firms as it optimizes efficiency, accuracy, and overall productivity better than any other tech can.

Artificial intelligence is profoundly impacting the legal profession, and we’re counting down the top companies driving this transformation in 2024.

Artificial Intelligence in the Legal Industry

When AI started making its way into law firms, it wasn’t welcomed with open arms.

Many legal professionals were skeptical, to say the least. The idea of machines handling tasks that were traditionally done by trained lawyers sparked many fears and doubts.

Lawyers couldn’t shake the feeling that AI’s inroads would compromise their job security and ultimately undermine the precision they strived for. They feared that AI systems would get bogged down in the intricacies of legal speak and lose sight of the human element.

It was a time of uncertainty and hesitation, and many thought AI was just a passing trend that would never take root in such a traditionally human-driven field.

But fast forward a few years, and things have changed dramatically. Legal tech, especially AI, is now common in law firms, and the benefits are hard to ignore.

How AI Technology Benefits Legal Work

First, AI brings an efficiency level that humans simply can’t match. It can process vast amounts of data in a fraction of the time it would take a human, allowing legal teams to handle cases faster and more efficiently.

Why waste valuable lawyer brainpower on grunt work? With automation, lawyers get to zero in value-adding tasks that directly translate into increased client satisfaction.

Accuracy is another huge benefit. Advanced AI algorithms can identify patterns and anomalies that even the most diligent human eyes might miss. In law, precision is non-negotiable. With fewer mistakes and more reliable outcomes, the stakes are significantly lower.

Then there’s the cost factor. Routine tasks, like hours spent categorizing documents or aggregating reports, have law firms hemorrhaging valuable resources. Automating these grunt jobs cuts operational costs dramatically.

Access to information is yet another game-changer. AI-powered tools can sift through massive databases to find relevant case law, precedents, and statutes in seconds.

This level of access was unimaginable a few years ago. It means that lawyers can now build stronger cases backed by thorough research that’s done in a fraction of the time.

These days, law firms that resisted AI’s initial intrusions now integrate it into their workflow and reap the rewards of efficient processes and happier clients (to name a few).

7 Best AI-Powered Tools for Legal Teams

Let’s face it: the legal world can be a bit overwhelming with all the paperwork, deadlines, and endless research. But what if there were tools that could make your life a whole lot easier?

In 2024, there are dozens upon dozens of AI-powered tools in the legal sector. However, only a handful stand out:

1. Briefpoint.ai

Briefpoint.ai is a game-changer for lawyers and paralegals alike—or anyone who drafts discovery documents.

Instead of spending hours drafting Requests for Admission, Requests for Production, interrogatories, and other discovery documents, you can rely on Briefpoint.ai to do the job quickly and accurately.

All you have to do is upload your opposing counsel’s discovery document, add objections and responses, and then download, sign, and serve! Briefpoint’s AI will take care of the rest.

There’s also Briefpoint Bridge, a brand-new feature that lets you collect and plug-in client responses to discovery documents without all the back and forth.

With Bridge, you can select which inquiries need client responses, send a link where your client can fill in their answers, and then plug those answers into your discovery document.

As you let this tool handle the drafting, you can shift your attention to the big-picture litigation strategy that will get you ahead.

2. Casetext

Casetext is transforming the way legal professionals conduct research with its AI-driven capabilities. Traditional legal research can be daunting and time-consuming, but Casetext simplifies this process immensely.

Using advanced natural language processing, Casetext helps you quickly find relevant case laws, statutes, and regulations by understanding the context and nuances of your queries.

One of the standout features of Casetext is its CARA A.I., which reads your uploaded briefs and instantly identifies relevant case law that you may have missed. This makes sure that your legal arguments are comprehensive and well-supported.

Additionally, Casetext’s powerful search engine can parse through vast legal databases in seconds and deliver precise results that save you countless hours.

3. Luminance

Luminance is a handy tool for document review and due diligence in the legal world. With its advanced AI, Luminance reads and understands legal documents quickly, picking out important details and flagging any potential issues that need a closer look.

Luminance is amazingly flexible. It listens to your habits and adjusts its approach on the fly. The more documents it absorbs, the sharper its instincts for sniffing out inconsistencies become.

Whether you’re dealing with big mergers or just reviewing a bunch of contracts, Luminance makes the process faster and more accurate.

4. LawToolBox

LawToolBox is the intelligent assistant that legal pros rely on to manage their schedules. Imagine never missing a deadline again—this integration with Microsoft Office makes it a reality, tying everything together in one convenient package.

LawToolBox relieves pressure by handling legal deadline calculations. By simply entering the case information, LawToolBox calculates all the critical dates and updates your calendar accordingly. Busy lawyers need this feature to stay on top of looming deadlines and court dates.

LawToolBox also allows for easy collaboration within legal teams. Team members can share calendars and deadlines so everyone is on the same page and nothing falls through the cracks.

Also, the platform’s reminders and notifications help keep everyone on track, which reduces the stress of managing multiple cases and deadlines.

5. Ironclad

Ironclad takes the cumbersome weight off your shoulders by expertly managing every stage of the contract lifecycle to give you back valuable time and energy. The goal is to make it easier and more efficient for legal teams to handle everything from creation and negotiation to execution and contract review.

One of Ironclad’s key features is its user-friendly interface, which allows you to draft and customize contracts quickly. Its AI capabilities help automate repetitive tasks, like filling in standard clauses and ensuring compliance with company policies.

6. Clio

Clio is like your law firm’s all-in-one assistant but in the cloud. It helps you keep track of cases, manage billing, organize documents, and stay in touch with clients—all from one easy-to-use platform.

Whether you’re tracking time, scheduling appointments, or collaborating with your team, Clio makes it simple and secure. It’s especially popular with small to mid-sized law firms because it takes care of daily tasks like:

Case management
Billing and invoicing
Time tracking
Document management
Client communication
Calendar management
Task management
Reporting and analytics
Payment processing

7. Everlaw

Everlaw is transforming due diligence and document review for legal teams, bringing a level of efficiency and insight that’s hard to match.

What if you had a shortcut to comb through legal files, homing in on the most critical documents in no time? Gone are the days of mind-numbing drudgery; Everlaw speeds up the pace and converts tedious chores into rapid-fire accomplishments.

As you explore the platform, you’ll appreciate its elegantly simple design, which makes organizing documents a snap. Forget fussing with tedious formatting—the drag-and-drop tool, custom tags, and advanced search filters let you get down to business.

Everlaw’s document review features are top-notch, too. You can easily redact, annotate, and analyze metadata, ensuring you capture every important detail without breaking a sweat.

Will AI Replace Legal Professionals?

The question of whether AI will replace legal professionals is a hot topic in the industry right now. Let’s be clear: while AI software is undoubtedly transforming the legal landscape, it’s not about to put lawyers out of work.

AI should be seen as a powerful tool that supplements the capabilities of legal professionals rather than a replacement for them.

AI excels at handling repetitive, mundane tasks that can bog down lawyers—think document review, legal research, and data analysis. While these tasks are essential, they don’t require the nuanced understanding and strategic thinking that lawyers bring to the table.

Handing over tedious tasks to AI means lawyers can direct their energy toward high-stakes strategy and client connection. By automating these processes, AI allows lawyers to focus on what they do best: providing expert legal advice, crafting compelling arguments, and developing innovative strategies for their clients.

Plus, the human element in law is irreplaceable. Legal professionals don’t just interpret laws; they understand the intricacies of human behavior, emotions, and motivations. They negotiate deals, mediate disputes, and provide a sense of justice that a machine simply can’t replicate.

Let’s not forget the ethical and moral dimensions of the legal profession. A code of ethics binds lawyers and has a duty to uphold justice, something that AI, no matter how advanced, cannot fully grasp or execute.

Legal decisions often require a level of moral judgment and ethical consideration that goes beyond binary logic.

So, no, AI will never replace lawyers or even legal assistants, for that matter. But it will take a lot of burden off their shoulders.

Start Drafting Legal Documents With Ease

How do you maintain the quality of your legal services if you’re always drowning in paperwork?

If you’re in the field of litigation, one of the most tedious parts of your work is discovery. And in discovery lies one of the most time-consuming tasks for law firms and legal departments: discovery document drafting.

Don’t want to spend more than an hour on every single document? Let Briefpoint handle the heavy lifting.

Try it for yourself and sign up for a demo today.

Automate Today For Bigger Savings Tomorrow

Under these assumptions, you save $20,477 using Briefpoint, per year, per attorney.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Legal AI Companies

What is Legal AI?

Legal AI refers to using artificial intelligence technologies to perform tasks traditionally done by lawyers and other legal professionals, such as legal research, document review, and contract management.

How does AI benefit law firms?

When law firms tap into AI, they can reroute resources, target slip-ups, and amass sizable savings–a trifecta of benefits that drive success. With this tool on your side, tedious tasks become a thing of the past, insightful patterns emerge from the noise, and bulky datasets get a serious workout in record time.

Will AI replace lawyers?

No, AI will not replace lawyers. It is designed to assist and augment the work of legal professionals, not replace them. AI can handle repetitive tasks and provide valuable insights, but the expertise and judgment of human lawyers are irreplaceable.

What are some popular AI tools in the legal industry?

Some popular AI tools in the legal industry include Briefpoint.ai, Casetext, Luminance, LawToolBox, Ironclad, and Everlaw.

Is AI expensive for law firms to implement?

Depending on the law firm, the price tag for AI implementation can fluctuate wildly. But here’s the silver lining: many AI tools can adapt to different budgets and firm sizes.

5 Best Software for Legal Documents (A 2024 Guide)

Let’s face it—managing legal documents can be a real headache. From drafting and organizing to tracking and signing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of paperwork that crosses your desk.

But here’s the good news: the right software can turn this overwhelming task into a simple process that saves you time and stress.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best software options for handling your legal documents in 2024, helping you find the perfect tools to simplify your workflow and keep everything running smoothly.

Types of Software for Legal Documents

When you’re working in the legal field, it’s no secret that managing documents can be a bit overwhelming. Different tasks require different tools, and finding the right software can make your life a whole lot easier.

Let’s break down the key types of software that can help you handle your legal documents more efficiently:

Document Automation Software

Ever get tired of drafting the same types of documents over and over? That’s where document automation software comes in handy.

Instead of starting from scratch every time, you can use templates or generative artificial intelligence that automatically fills in the necessary details. This not only speeds up the process but also helps you avoid those pesky errors that can creep in when you’re working under pressure.

Take Briefpoint, for example. Drafting discovery documents can take hours without automation, but Briefpoint can help you do it in minutes.

You simply have to upload your discovery request, select objections and responses, and then finish up on MS Word. Briefpoint will take care of everything in between, including filling out routine information.

Legal Document Management Software

Keeping track of legal documents can be a real headache, especially when you’re juggling multiple cases and deadlines.

Legal document management software is designed to ease that burden by organizing all your files in one place so you can quickly find what you need without the frustration of sifting through stacks of papers or countless folders.

With features like version control and advanced search options, you’ll save time and avoid the stress of hunting down that elusive document.

Contract Management Software

Contracts can be tricky to manage when you’ve got multiple versions floating around. Contract management software simplifies the process by keeping everything organized in one place.

From drafting to signing to tracking renewals, this software helps you stay on top of your contracts and ensures that nothing gets overlooked.

Electronic Signature Tools

Gone are the days of printing, signing, and scanning documents. Electronic signature tools make it easy to sign documents digitally, saving you time and hassle.

Plus, they add an extra layer of security so you can be sure that your signatures are legally binding. Whether you’re in the office or on the go, you can sign documents quickly and easily with these tools.

Practice Management Software

If you’re searching for an all-in-one solution to modernize your legal practice, practice management software could be the answer.

This software is designed to handle much more than just document management; it brings together all the key functions you need to run your firm smoothly.

With practice management software, you can manage case files, track billable hours, schedule appointments, and even handle client communications—all within one platform.

It’s much like a virtual legal assistant that keeps everything in order, which allows you to spend more time on more value-adding tasks, rather than getting bogged down in administrative work.

5 Best Legal Document Software Solutions to Complete Your Stack

Building a solid legal tech stack can make a world of difference in how smoothly your practice runs.

Here’s a look at some top software picks for 2024 that can help you upgrade your legal workflows and keep everything organized.

1. Briefpoint: Best for Document Automation

If you’re fed up with spending hours drafting and tweaking discovery documents, Briefpoint.ai is the solution you’ve been looking for.

This software is all about making your life easier by automating discovery response and request creation. Instead of starting from scratch every time, you just upload your opposing counsel’s discovery request .pdf, and Briefpoint does the rest—creating a fully formatted, ready-to-use response document in no time.

Briefpoint also comes with a tool that makes collecting and incorporating client responses into discovery requests ten times faster.

With Briefpoint Bridge, you can select the interrogatories you want your client to answer, add notes to simplify the interrogatories or seek specific information, then send your client the link to the portal via email.

Once your client sends over their responses, you can easily amend and add them to your discovery request. No more back-and-forth emails!

Briefpoint lets you automate the creation of outgoing sets and responses to:

2. OneDrive: Best Legal Document Management System

Managing legal documents can be a real hassle, especially when you’re dealing with a ton of files and trying to keep everything organized.

If you’ve ever found yourself wasting time searching for a missing document or stressing over whether you’re working with the right version, you know how frustrating it can be. That’s where OneDrive comes in.

It’s more than just cloud storage—it’s a tool designed to make document management easier and more efficient.

With OneDrive, you can quickly locate any document you need, thanks to its search features, and the version history ensures you’re always working with the most current information.

The smooth Microsoft Office integration means you can edit and collaborate on documents seamlessly, all while knowing that your files are securely stored.

OneDrive takes the stress out of managing your legal documents, which can give you more time to focus on your work instead of battling with your files.

3. Ironclad: Best for Contract Management

Contracts are the backbone of any legal practice, but keeping track of them can quickly become overwhelming. Juggling multiple drafts, managing approvals, and staying on top of deadlines can feel like a full-time job in itself.

If you find yourself in this situation, Ironclad is the best tool for you. Ironclad is specifically built to simplify contract management, offering a centralized platform where you can handle everything from drafting to execution.

It lets you manage each stage of the contract lifecycle with ease so that every version is tracked and every deadline is met.

Ironclad also simplifies collaboration, which makes it simple to work with colleagues and clients without the usual back-and-forth confusion.

Instead of getting bogged down in the details, Ironclad helps you stay organized and in control, so you can manage your contracts with confidence and efficiency.

4. DocuSign: Best for Electronic Signatures

Any law office knows that waiting on physical signatures can slow everything down. Whether you’re finalizing a contract or getting an agreement in place, the last thing you want is to be held up by paperwork.

That’s why DocuSign is such a game-changer. It transforms the signing process into something seamless and straightforward.

Instead of printing, mailing, or scanning, DocuSign lets you send documents for electronic signatures instantly.

The best part? Your clients can sign from wherever they are—whether they’re in the office or halfway around the world.

The platform is not only user-friendly but also secure, giving you peace of mind that the signatures are legally binding and the process is fully tracked.

5. Clio: Best Legal Practice Management Software

Managing a law practice involves handling a lot of different tasks—tracking cases, managing client communications, handling billing, and keeping everything on schedule.

Without the right law practice management software, it can quickly become overwhelming.

Clio is designed to bring all these elements together into one cohesive platform tailored specifically for legal professionals.

With Clio, you can easily manage your cases, track billable hours, send invoices, and organize client communications all in one place.

Plus, the software’s user-friendly interface makes sure that you can stay on top of your workload and maintain order, even during the busiest times.

Clio also offers seamless integrations with other tools, which allows you to customize it to meet the specific needs of your law firm.

Best Practices for Creating, Storing, and Organizing Legal Documents

When it comes to handling legal documents, a little organization can go a long way in making your life easier and keeping things running smoothly.

Here are some straightforward practices that can help you create, store, and organize your legal documents a hundred times better:

Opt for Paperless Document Management

If you’re still dealing with stacks of paper, it’s time to consider going paperless. Digital documents are easier to organize, search, and share, especially with the right document management tool.

Plus, going paperless reduces the risk of losing important paperwork and makes your office more environmentally friendly.

Scanning and saving all your documents electronically can also smoothen out your workflow and make everything more accessible.

Use Consistent Document Templates

Starting with a blank document each time is not only time-consuming but also increases the likelihood of errors.

By using standardized templates, you make sure that all your documents have a consistent format, which is a must in the legal industry where precision matters.

Develop a Clear Naming Convention

A clear naming system for your files is key to staying organized. Include details like the client’s name, document type, and date in your file names so you can quickly identify what each document contains without opening it. This simple step can save you a lot of time.

Organize Documents with a Logical Folder Structure

With your legal document management solution, set up a folder structure that makes sense for your practice. Group documents by client, case, or matter and create subfolders for different types of documents like contracts, correspondence, and briefs.

A well-organized folder system helps you find what you need quickly so you can stay focused on your work.

Backup Your Files Regularly

Losing important legal documents can be disastrous, so regular backups are essential. Cloud storage solutions like OneDrive are great for automatic backups, and it’s wise to keep an additional offline backup as a precaution. This helps make sure that your files are safe and accessible, even if something goes wrong.

It might also be a good idea to invest in unlimited document storage so you won’t have to worry about running out of space.

Keep Track of Version Control

When documents go through multiple revisions, it’s easy to lose track of changes.

Version control allows you to monitor edits, revert to previous versions, and make sure that everyone is working with the latest document. This is especially useful in collaborative environments.

Secure Sensitive Information

Legal documents often contain sensitive information that must be protected. Use encryption, strong passwords, and access controls to safeguard your files. Regularly review and update your security protocols to keep your documents safe from unauthorized access.

Follow Document Retention Policies

Having a clear policy for how long to keep your law firm’s documents is important for managing storage and staying compliant with legal regulations.

Make sure your retention policies are up to date and regularly reviewed to meet current standards.

Train Your Team

Finally, ensure that everyone on your team understands and follows your document management practices.

Regular training sessions can help reinforce these best practices and keep your document management system running smoothly.

How Much Does Legal Document Software Cost?

The cost of legal document software can vary quite a bit depending on what you need and the size of your firm. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:

Basic options: If you’re just looking for something simple to manage your documents, you might find software that costs around $10 to $50 per user per month. This usually covers the basics like storage, search, and version control.
Mid-range solutions: For those who need a bit more, like workflow automation, integrations with other legal tools, or better security, you’re probably looking at something in the $50 to $100 per user per month range. This is ideal for mid-sized firms that need more than just the basics.
All-in-one systems: If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution that includes document management, case management, billing, and client communication, the cost can go up to $100 to $200+ per user per month. These systems are great for larger firms that need a full suite of tools.
Enterprise-level software: For very large firms with complex needs, enterprise-level software might be necessary, which can run $200 to $500+ per user per month. These solutions often include advanced features like AI-driven analytics and extensive integrations.

Speaking of AI, if you’re looking at software with AI capabilities—such as AI-driven document drafting, predictive analytics, or automated contract reviews—expect the cost to be on the higher end.

AI features can significantly raise the price because they offer powerful tools that can save time and improve accuracy, but they also come with a premium cost. So, if AI is on your must-have list, be prepared for a steeper investment.

Spend Less Time on Routine Legal Drafting With Briefpoint

Managing legal documents doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right legal tech, you can turn time-consuming tasks into easy processes that free up more of your day for what really matters—serving your clients.

Whether it’s automating document creation, managing contracts, or keeping your files organized, the right tech stack can make all the difference.

Add Briefpoint to the very top of your legal tech tools list. If you want to stop spending hours drafting discovery documents, Briefpoint offers a smarter, faster process.

Imagine cutting down on time spent and saving your firm thousands per attorney each year—all while guaranteeing accuracy and consistency.

Ready to see how Briefpoint can revolutionize your workflow? Schedule a demo now and take the first step toward transforming how you handle legal documents!

How Much Can You Save With Briefpoint?

Under these assumptions, you save $20,477 using Briefpoint, per year, per attorney.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Software for Legal Documents

What is the best software for legal documents?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best software depends on your specific needs, but Briefpoint.ai, OneDrive, Ironclad, DocuSign, and Clio are the top choices in their respective categories.

What document management features should I look for?

When picking a document management system for your legal practice, there are a few key features to keep in mind. First, make sure it has a strong search function so you can quickly find what you need and version control to keep track of document changes. You’ll also want solid access controls to keep sensitive info secure.

It’s a big plus if the system integrates well with tools you’re already using, like email or case management software. Cloud storage with automatic backups is great for flexibility and peace of mind. And if you’re working with a team, look for easy document sharing and collaboration features. Finally, make sure it helps you stay on top of compliance requirements.

Can I use general document management software for legal documents?

While you can use general document management software, legal document management tools offer features tailored to the needs of legal professionals, such as improved security, compliance tracking, and specialized search functions.

How do I choose the right software for my law firm?

Consider the size of your firm, the type of law you practice, and your budget. It’s also a good idea to take advantage of free trials and demos to see how well the software fits your workflow.

Is electronic signature software legally binding?

Yes, electronic signatures are legally binding in most jurisdictions, provided they meet certain requirements. DocuSign, for example, complies with e-signature laws around the world.

Full Guide to Law Firm Automation (Tips + Strategies)

Law firm automation might sound like something straight out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s very real and incredibly practical.

You’re in the middle of a busy workday, juggling multiple cases, answering client calls, and trying to keep up with the mountain of paperwork. Does this sound familiar?

Suddenly, you realize there’s a way to offload all the repetitive, mundane tasks that eat up your valuable time. That’s where legal automation comes in—a reliable, tireless assistant that handles everything from document creation to client communications at lightning speed.

In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about legal automation and how it can transform your law firm today.

What is Legal Automation?

Legal automation is the use of tech to take care of the boring, repetitive tasks in a law firm. Think of it as having an assistant that handles stuff like creating documents, tracking billable hours, and managing client communications—except that assistant does the work a hundred times faster.

By automating these tasks, you can save time, cut down on mistakes, and get things done more efficiently.

For example, automation tools can whip up documents based on templates, keep track of how much time you spend on each case, manage your calendar and appointments, and simplify client intake and communication processes.

This means you and your team can focus on the important stuff that needs your expertise instead of getting stuck with routine admin work.

What Legal Workflows Can You Automate?

Law firms have plenty of workflows that can be automated to save time and reduce errors. Let’s break down some key areas where automation can make a big difference:

Document Automation

Instead of drafting each document from scratch, you can use document automation tools to create them based on pre-set templates. This means you just fill in the details, and the tool handles the rest. Here’s why this is such a big deal.

First, using standardized templates ensures that all your documents have a consistent format and style. You won’t have to worry about different fonts or layouts. Everything looks professional and is in line with legal standards.

Plus, you can customize these templates to include your firm’s branding, specific clauses, and any other required information.

You can also use artificial intelligence to draft standard documents. For example, Briefpoint.ai uses generative AI to help you generate discovery documents, and all you have to do is upload your discovery request and fill in objections and responses. Briefpoint does the rest.

Efficiency and speed are other huge benefits. Manual document creation can eat up hours, but automation tools can generate complex documents in minutes.

And let’s talk about errors. We’ve all had those moments where a typo or missed clause caused a headache. Automated systems minimize these mistakes, a huge benefit in an industry requiring utmost accuracy.

Time Tracking and Billing

Time tracking and billing can be a headache for any law firm, but automation can make it less of a chore.

What if you no longer have to manually log every minute you spend on client work? Automated tools can track your time accurately, whether you’re on a call, drafting a document, or in a meeting. They run quietly in the background and capture every billable second.

Accuracy is a major perk. No more missed entries or underestimating time spent on tasks. Automated systems record everything in real-time so you capture all billable hours and avoid revenue loss.

When it’s time to bill, these tools generate detailed invoices automatically. Customize them with your firm’s branding and ensure they’re sent out promptly, saving you the end-of-month scramble.

Transparency is another win. Automated tracking provides clear reports on time spent, which is great for internal assessments and building trust with clients. They can see exactly what they’re being billed for, making your practice more transparent and efficient.

Calendar Management

Keeping your calendar straight can feel like juggling flaming torches—one wrong move and everything falls apart. That’s where calendar management automation steps in to make your life a whole lot easier.

Imagine having a tool that schedules your appointments, sends reminders, and even reschedules meetings when conflicts arise. Automated calendar management does all this and more. It helps make sure you never miss a deadline, court date, or client meeting.

One of the best parts? It reduces human error. No more double-booking or forgetting important dates. The system handles everything, so your schedule is always up-to-date and conflict-free.

Automation also makes coordination a breeze. Need to set up a meeting with multiple people? The tool can find a time that works for everyone and send out invites without you lifting a finger. It keeps track of everyone’s responses and adjusts the schedule as needed.

Automated calendar management tools often sync with your existing systems, like email and case management software. This integration means you have a central hub for all your scheduling needs so it’s easier to manage your time and stay on top of everything.

Client Communications

Managing client communications can be overwhelming, but automation can turn this daunting task into a smooth and efficient process. Automated systems handle routine communications, which allows you to focus on more important interactions.

Automated client communication tools can send follow-up emails, appointment reminders, and feedback requests without any manual effort. These tools ensure that your clients are always in the loop and feel valued, leading to better client satisfaction.

Legal automation software also makes sure that all communications are timely and uniform. Your clients receive the information they need when they need it, which helps improve their overall experience with your firm.

Here are a few examples of how you can automate client communications:

Follow-up emails: Automatically send follow-up emails after meetings or consultations to inform clients about the next steps.
Appointment reminders: Schedule and send reminders for upcoming appointments, reducing no-shows and ensuring clients remember important dates.
Feedback requests: Automatically send feedback requests after a case is closed or a service is provided, helping you gather valuable client insights.
Newsletters: Regularly send out newsletters with updates, tips, and news relevant to your clients, keeping them engaged with your firm.
Billing reminders: Automatically remind clients about upcoming or overdue payments, streamlining the billing process and improving cash flow.

Client Intake

Client intake can be a hassle, but automation makes it a breeze. Imagine clients filling out their details online whenever they have time, without you having to chase them for info. These online forms organize everything automatically, so you don’t have to worry about manual data entry mistakes.

Automation makes sure every client gets the same questions, so you’re never missing important information.

Once a client fills out a form, the system can instantly schedule an initial consultation, send a confirmation email, and even remind them about the appointment. No more back-and-forth to find a time that works.

All the info from the intake forms goes straight into your case management system, so you don’t have to enter it again. This makes things run much smoother and keeps everything in one place.

Lead Management

Automated lead management systems can capture leads from various sources, such as your website, social media, and email campaigns.

Once a lead is captured, the system automatically sorts and prioritizes them based on the criteria you set. This means you can focus on the most promising leads without wasting time.

These tools can also handle follow-up communications. Automated emails can be sent to new leads to provide them with more information about your services and encourage them to schedule a consultation.

Consistent follow-up helps make sure that no lead is forgotten and helps nurture potential clients until they are ready to hire your firm.

Another great feature is the ability to track interactions. Automated systems log every touchpoint with a lead, from initial contact to follow-up emails and phone calls. This gives you a complete history of your interactions, which makes it easier to personalize your approach and build stronger relationships.

Analytics and reporting are also key benefits. Automation tools provide insights into your lead management process, showing you which strategies work and where you can improve. This data helps you refine your approach and convert more leads into clients.

Marketing Efforts

Marketing is essential for a law firm, just like any other business, but it can be time-consuming and involve manual or routine tasks you don’t need on top of your already heavy workload.

Fortunately, automating your marketing efforts can save you a ton of time and make your campaigns more effective. Let’s look at how automation can transform your marketing game.

Social media management: Plan and schedule your posts in advance to ensure consistent and timely updates without manual effort.
Email marketing: Send out newsletters, updates, and promotional emails automatically. Segment your audience to deliver personalized content that keeps them engaged.
Content creation and distribution: Use automation tools to plan your content calendar, distribute blog posts, and optimize for search engines. This keeps your firm visible and attractive to potential clients.

Why Should You Automate Legal Processes in the First Place?

Now that you can see what administrative tasks you can automate, the next question is why you should do so. Automation software is rarely free, and most law firms will need more than just your standard legal practice management software.

That said, why should you invest in this type of tech? Well, here are a few compelling reasons:

Save Time

Automation takes care of repetitive tasks like document management, time tracking, and client communications, which means you have more time to focus on more strategic and high-value activities (a.k.a. more billable hours).

Imagine having more hours in the day to work on complex cases, strategize for court, or even spend quality time with your family. The more you automate, the more productive and efficient your day becomes.

Reduce Errors

Automated systems follow strict, predefined rules, which minimizes the risk of human error. This means fewer mistakes in your legal documents, more accurate time tracking, and overall higher-quality work.

Increase Efficiency

Organized legal workflows mean tasks are completed faster and more efficiently. Automation makes sure that no step is overlooked and everything runs smoothly to upgrade your firm’s overall productivity.

Your team will appreciate not having to chase down details or redo work. Plus, this efficiency translates to quicker turnaround times for your clients, which helps increase their satisfaction and your firm’s reputation.

Better Work-Life Balance

With automation, you can reclaim hours lost to repetitive chores and focus on what truly matters—both in your work and personal life. This means less stress and burnout as you spend more time on meaningful projects and pursuits that inspire you.

A healthier work-life balance doesn’t just make your team happier; it boosts productivity and creativity, leading to better outcomes for your firm and your clients. When everyone is more relaxed and energized, your whole practice thrives.

Cost Savings

Automating routine tasks slashes operational costs by reducing your team’s hours on administrative work, freeing them up for more valuable tasks. This efficient use of time and talent means a healthier bottom line for your firm.

Plus, with less reliance on manual processes, you can lower staffing costs and cut down on overtime. All these savings add up to give you more financial flexibility to invest in growth and innovation. Not to mention the increased law firm profitability overall!

Will Automation Replace Lawyers?

The rise of automation in the legal industry has sparked a debate: will automation replace lawyers? While automation will transform the industry, it will not replace legal professionals.

The essence of lawyering is rooted in human judgment, empathy, and ethical decision-making. Clients seek lawyers for their ability to understand complex emotions, provide reassurance, and offer personalized advice—qualities that no software can replicate.

Automation can handle repetitive tasks but struggles with the unpredictability of many legal issues. Lawyers use experience and intuition to navigate these complexities, crafting strategies beyond a machine’s capabilities.

Another significant part of a lawyer’s job is negotiating and advocating for clients. This requires not just legal knowledge but the ability to read people, persuade, and adapt to dynamic situations—skills inherently human and irreplaceable by automation.

Lastly, lawyers must balance legal outcomes with ethical considerations, guided by a strict code of ethics. Machines, operating on logic and predefined rules, cannot weigh ethical dilemmas as humans do.

Automation should be viewed as an enhancement of lawyers’ capabilities. It handles routine tasks and frees them to focus on higher-value work, increasing efficiency and enhancing the quality of legal services.

Automate the Most Tedious Part of Your Day

Is discovery paperwork slowing your case down? Preparing legal documents is a task you can’t escape in the legal industry, but what if there was a shortcut that wouldn’t sacrifice the quality, accuracy, and consistency of your documents?

Briefpoint.ai is just what you need to speed up the discovery phase. With Briefpoint, you can automate the creation of responses to and propounding sets of:

Want to know more about this sophisticated legal technology? See how Briefpoint works with a free demo today!

How Briefpoint Can Help You

Under these assumptions, you save $20,477 using Briefpoint, per year, per attorney.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Legal Workflow Automation

What is legal automation?

Legal automation refers to the use of technology to perform repetitive and time-consuming tasks in a law firm, such as document creation, time tracking, and client communications.

Can I automate client intake?

Yes, client intake can be automated using online forms that clients fill out, with the information automatically added to your system.

Will automation replace lawyers?

No, automation is designed to assist lawyers by handling mundane tasks, allowing them to focus on providing legal expertise and building client relationships.

How can automation improve my firm’s efficiency?

Automation streamlines workflows, reduces errors, saves time, and enhances client communications, improving efficiency.

What legal workflows can be automated?

You can automate document creation, time tracking and billing, calendar management, client communications, client intake, lead management, and marketing efforts.

6 Ways to Increase Revenue Per Lawyer in 2024

Maximizing revenue per lawyer in 2024 requires more than just traditional billing hours—it’s about embracing new strategies and technologies that enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.

But where do you even start?

In this guide, we’ll explore innovative approaches that can help your law firm not only survive but thrive in the competitive legal market.

From leveraging automation to refining client interactions, these methods will make sure your firm operates at peak profitability.

What is Revenue Per Attorney?

Revenue per attorney is a key metric that indicates how much income each lawyer generates for the firm. It’s calculated by dividing the firm’s total revenue by the number of attorneys.

This number helps you understand how productive and efficient your lawyers are. If each attorney brings in a high amount of revenue, your firm is doing well financially.

On the other hand, if the revenue per attorney is low, it might be time to look at ways to improve efficiency and productivity.

Law Firm Profitability vs. Revenue

Before we discuss increasing revenue per lawyer, let’s examine the difference between revenue and profitability in a law firm.

Revenue is all about the total cash your firm pulls in from clients. It’s like the big number at the top of your income statement–impressive, but it doesn’t tell the whole story.

Profitability is where things get real. After you’ve paid all the bills–salaries, rent, tech costs, and all the other expenses–what’s left are your law firm profits.

You can have sky-high revenue, but if your expenses are eating it all up, your profitability might be disappointing.

Think of revenue as the size of your paycheck and profitability as what’s left after you’ve paid rent and bought groceries.

High revenue looks great, but high profitability means your firm is actually thriving. It’s about keeping more of what you earn so your firm isn’t just making money but also growing and sustaining itself.

6 Strategies to Increase Law Firm Revenue

Maximizing your law firm’s revenue isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter. With how much more competitive the legal landscape is today, finding innovative ways to increase efficiency and client satisfaction can significantly impact your bottom line.

Let’s explore these practical and actionable approaches that can help your law firm thrive and grow.

1. Leverage Automation Whenever Possible

Automation has become necessary for modern law firms, including some of the most conservative establishments.

Why? Automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks frees up your lawyers to focus on more valuable work, like client consultations and case strategies. In turn, they’re increasing client satisfaction, which directly impacts law firm revenues, of course.

Automation tools can handle everything from document management and scheduling to client communication and billing. For example, you can automate:

Document management: Automate the drafting, organizing, and filing of legal documents.
Legal document generation: Use document automation tools to draft documents in minutes instead of hours.
Scheduling: Use automated systems and legal practice management software for booking appointments, sending reminders, and managing court dates.
Client communication: Implement automated email responses, client intake forms, and chatbots for initial inquiries.
Billing and invoicing: Automate time tracking, billing, payment reminders, and online payment processing with legal billing software.
Research and case preparation: Use automated legal research tools and predictive analytics for case outcomes.
Compliance and risk management: Set up automated compliance checklists, risk assessments, and policy updates.
Task management: Automate workflow assignments, progress tracking, and follow-ups on pending tasks.
Data analysis: Use automated tools for analyzing case data, generating performance reports, and tracking client feedback.

2. Consider Outsourcing Non-Core Tasks

Outsourcing non-core tasks can be a game-changer for your law firm’s revenue. Think about it – every minute your attorneys spend on administrative duties is time they’re not spending on billable work.

Sure, you can delegate these tasks to paralegals and office assistants, but what if they already have their hands full? And what if you don’t want to hire another full-time employee to handle these responsibilities?

Outsourcing these tasks to external experts frees up your lawyers and support staff to focus on what they do best.

One particularly effective approach is to hire a virtual legal assistant. These professionals can take over a variety of tasks that bog down your team. From scheduling appointments and preparing documents to managing client communications, a virtual legal assistant helps ensure that routine yet essential tasks are handled efficiently.

Imagine your lawyers not having to worry about the minutiae of day-to-day operations and, instead, dedicating their time and expertise to high-value client work. This shift can lead to better client outcomes and higher satisfaction, which ultimately drives more referrals and repeat business.

Plus, by outsourcing, you can tap into specialized skills without the overhead costs of hiring full-time staff.

3. Invest in Accurate Time Tracking

One common headache for law firms is lost billable hours due to sloppy or inconsistent time tracking.

It’s frustrating to realize that all those minutes and hours spent on client work haven’t been properly logged, which costs your firm significant revenue. But there’s a straightforward solution: investing in accurate time tracking.

Picture this: your attorneys easily log their hours in real-time with reliable time-tracking software, reducing the chances of forgotten or misreported hours.

This not only makes sure that every minute of billable work is captured and billed correctly, but it also increases transparency with your clients, which builds trust and satisfaction.

Beyond billing, accurate time tracking helps you see exactly how time is spent across various tasks and cases to highlight inefficiencies and areas for improvement. This can lead to smarter workload management, preventing burnout, and keeping your team operating at peak productivity.

Plus, with detailed time-tracking data, generating precise invoices becomes a breeze. No more disputes with clients over billed hours, and your cash flow gets a healthy boost.

4. Keep Track of Your Law Firm’s Profitability

Staying on top of your law firm’s profitability is crucial for long-term success. It’s not enough to just bring in revenue; you need to make sure your firm is truly profitable.

Aside from revenue per attorney, here are other law firm profitability metrics to monitor:

Profit margin: This shows the percentage of revenue that turns into profit after all expenses. A healthy profit margin means your firm is generating income and managing costs effectively.
Realization rate: This metric measures the percentage of billable hours that are actually billed to clients. A high realization rate indicates efficient billing practices and fewer write-offs.
Utilization rate: This tracks the percentage of a lawyer’s billable working hours. Improving utilization rates means your team spends more time on revenue-generating legal services.
Profit Per Equity Partner (PPEP): This figure shows the profitability generated by each equity partner. It’s a key indicator of overall financial health and helps in comparing performance across the firm.

5. Stay on Top of Unpaid Invoices

Unpaid invoices can be a real headache for any law firm because they can easily wreak havoc on your cash flow and financial health. So, it’s an absolute must to stay on top of them and make sure your firm gets paid for the hard work you do.

First off, set clear payment terms right from the get-go. Make sure your clients know when and how they’re expected to pay. Using a reliable invoicing system can be a lifesaver here; it can automate reminders and keep track of due dates so nothing slips through the cracks.

Make it a habit to regularly review your accounts receivable. This way, you can quickly spot any overdue invoices and take action. Don’t be shy about sending follow-up emails or giving clients a quick call to remind them about their outstanding balances.

As a final effort, you might offer a discount for immediate payment. This can incentivize clients to clear their balance quickly.

If they still won’t pay, a strongly worded final demand letter, preferably from a different attorney or a collections specialist, can sometimes spur action. Clearly state the amount owed, the consequences of non-payment, and a final deadline.

6. Offer Alternative Payment Methods

Making it easy for clients to pay you is a smart way to reduce unpaid invoices and boost your cash flow. Offering a variety of payment options can accommodate different client preferences and situations.

Here are some alternatives to consider:

Online payment portals
Credit card payments
Payment plans
Electronic Fund Transfers (EFT)
Mobile payment options

Client Satisfaction is the Key to Maintaining Law Firm Profitability

While the tips above offer quick fixes to boost your law firm’s revenue, focusing on client satisfaction is an indirect but just as crucial factor for long-term profitability.

Happy clients are more likely to come back, refer others, and leave glowing reviews, all of which contribute to your firm’s success.

Of course, positive case outcomes are the overarching factor for client satisfaction. However, there are other practical tips to enhance client satisfaction:

Communicate clearly and often: Keep your clients updated regularly on their cases. This not only builds trust but also helps ease any anxiety they might have about the process.
Respond quickly: When clients contact you, make it a priority to respond promptly. This shows you value their time and concerns, strengthening your relationship.
Show empathy: Recognize your clients’ stress and show a little compassion. It can make a world of difference in how they perceive your service.
Deliver on promises: Always follow through on what you say you’ll do. Meeting deadlines and fulfilling promises boost your firm’s reputation for reliability.
Seek feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback and use it to improve your services. It shows clients you care about their experience and are committed to improving.
Offer extra value: Additional services, like free consultations or informative newsletters, can enhance the client experience and help your firm stand out.

Let Briefpoint Help You Maximize Your Billable Hours

Legal technology is putting time back in lawyers’ hands. And for most legal professionals, time translates into money.

Briefpoint.ai is an AI-powered tool that helps you draft discovery documents in minutes. What usually takes hours per document will now only cost you a fraction of the time, and it’s not as complicated as you think.

All you have to do is:

Upload your discovery request
Insert objections or responses
Finish up on Word

And Briefpoint.ai will take care of everything in between. If you need to insert client responses, Briefpoint Bridge will help you collect and plug them into your files, too!

See these features for yourself and sign up for a free demo today.

Improve Law Firm Profitability with Document Automation

Under these assumptions, you save $20,477 using Briefpoint, per year, per attorney.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Law Firm Profitability

What does revenue per lawyer mean?

Revenue per lawyer measures how much income each attorney in a firm brings in. It’s simply the firm’s total revenue divided by the number of lawyers. This helps see how productive and efficient the lawyers are, and where things might be improved to make more money.

How much revenue should an attorney generate?

The revenue an attorney should generate can vary, but a good rule of thumb is three times their salary. So, if a lawyer makes $100,000 a year, they should aim to bring in around $300,000. This covers their pay and overhead costs and adds to the firm’s profit.

What is a good profit margin for a law firm?

A healthy profit margin for a law firm is usually between 20% and 40%. This means after all expenses, 20% to 40% of the revenue is profit. A higher profit margin means better financial health and efficiency, helping ensure the firm’s growth and stability.

How can automation help my law firm increase revenue?

Automation can boost your law firm’s revenue by handling repetitive tasks, reducing errors, and saving time. For example, automated document management systems can take care of paperwork, letting your lawyers focus on client consultations and case strategies. This efficiency means you can handle more cases without extra workload, driving up your revenue.

Why is accurate time tracking crucial for law firm profitability?

Accurate time tracking ensures all billable hours are recorded and billed correctly, minimizing lost revenue and providing transparency for clients. It also helps manage workloads effectively, preventing burnout and boosting productivity.

How to Optimize Workflow in a Law Firm: 2024 Strategies

Running a law firm is no walk in the park. Things can quickly get chaotic between juggling cases, clients, and the daily grind.

But what if you could make everything run smoother and more efficiently?

Make this the year you redefine efficiency at your law firm. This practical guide is loaded with actionable insights and expert-approved techniques to help you take your workflow to the next level and make 2024 one for the books.

Let’s get right to it.

6 Workflow Management Tips You Can Try Today

Workflow management is the backbone of a law firm—keeping things smooth, slashing errors, and hitting deadlines. So, how can you achieve optimal legal workflows for your firm? Here’s a guide to help you get started.

1. Conduct Workflow Analysis

The first step to better workflow management is understanding your current processes.

Start by mapping out all the tasks you handle daily. Create a visual map or flowchart that shows how these tasks connect. You don’t need a flashy solution—just a clear view of what matters.

Next, look for stages where tasks tend to get delayed. These bottlenecks can slow you down. Invite your team to share their pain points and pet peeves—they’ve likely got some valuable insights on how to iron out kinks in the workflow. They’re the ones on the front lines, after all.

Now, track how long each task takes from start to finish. This data will help you spot slow areas and gauge overall efficiency.

Also, check if tasks are evenly spread out among your team members. The last thing you want is for someone to be overloaded while others have too little to do.

We’ve laid out the challenges, so what’s next? Of course, we’ll look at potential ways to overcome them!

2. Leverage Legal Workflow Automation

Ever wondered how to make your law firm run like a well-oiled machine? Automated workflows are the answer.

Imagine having software handle document creation, client communication, and billing. Automating repetitive tasks lets your team focus on high-value work and perfect the client experience. Here are some of the most important types of automation you can start with:

Document Automation

Manually creating legal documents is time-consuming and prone to mistakes. Enter legal document automation tools like Briefpoint.ai, which let you draft documents with better speed, accuracy, and consistency than manual drafting.

Briefpoint, for example, can help you create discovery documents in minutes. Usually, this task would take hours upon hours and eat up a lot of brain power.

With Briefpoint’s generative artificial intelligence, you can whip up responses to, and propounding sets off:

Billing and Invoicing

Billing, time tracking, and invoicing can be a nightmare if you’re handling it manually. Automate this process and optimize your law firm profitability with legal workflow automation software like QuickBooks or FreshBooks.

These tools handle invoicing, track billable hours, and manage payments, helping you get paid promptly without the usual hassle.

Calendar Management

Missing a deadline can be catastrophic for a law firm. That’s where efficient calendar management comes in.

Use tools like Microsoft Outlook or Google Calendar to keep track of important dates, deadlines, and appointments. Sync your calendars with your practice management software to make sure nothing slips through the cracks.

Client Intake

A smooth client intake process sets the tone for your entire relationship. To gather information efficiently, use online forms and client intake software like Lexicata.

Automate follow-ups and document collection to ensure you don’t miss anything and that every new client feels valued right from the start.

3. Tighten Up Your SOPs

If missed deadlines, tasks falling through the cracks, and constant team confusion sound familiar, it’s a sign your Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) might be sloppy.

SOPs are the backbone of a well-run law firm, and tightening them up makes sure everyone knows exactly what to do and how to do it.

Start by regularly reviewing and updating your SOPs—laws and regulations change, and your procedures should, too. Next:

Gather feedback from staff to pinpoint pain points and areas for improvement.
Keep SOPs clear and concise; ditch the jargon and complex language.
Use bullet points, flowcharts, or checklists to break down procedures step by step.

Conduct regular training sessions to keep everyone up to speed.
Reinforce procedures and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Kick-off onboarding with hands-on SOP training to get new team members up to speed.
Document everything and store SOPs in a central location to save time looking for files.

4. Implement Legal Technology Solutions

Investing in the right technology can make a difference in how smoothly your law firm operates.

Here are some essential tools that can streamline your workflow and upgrade efficiency.

Practice Management Software

Tools like Clio and MyCase help you manage cases, clients, and essential tasks. These platforms provide a central hub for managing your firm, handling everything from document storage to billing and communication.

By outsourcing administrative drudgery to practice management software, you and your team are free to direct your attention to the clients who need you.

Client Relationship Management Software

Keeping track of client interactions can be overwhelming, but client relationship management (CRM) software makes it a breeze for law firms.

Effectively building relationships means keeping all your conversations, appointments, and leads in one place – that’s where a CRM comes in, helping you tame the chaos.

A solid CRM system makes sure no client falls through the cracks and helps you maintain strong, ongoing relationships with all your clients.

Contract Management Tools

Dealing with contracts can be a real headache, but contract management tools like ContractWorks or Concord simplify the process.

These tools make it easy to create, store, and track contracts so that nothing gets lost or overlooked. With everything organized in one place, you can quickly access any contract and keep your workflow running smoothly.

Legal Research Tools

Cutting-edge legal research demands top-notch tools – it’s the difference between status quo and success.

Imagine tapping into a vast, carefully curated library of legal insights – it’s like having the inside track to find what you need fast.

With these research tools, you’re never flying blind. They’re your ticket to unlocking valuable client insights, driving business growth, and cementing your reputation as a trusted authority.

5. Adopt a Paperless Office

Going paperless isn’t just great for the environment; it can also transform the efficiency and organization of your law firm.

Electronic documents are easier to search, share, and store, eliminating the need to spend time digging through file cabinets. With cloud storage solutions like Dropbox or Google Drive, you can access your documents from anywhere, ensuring they are always at your fingertips.

This shift also cuts down on recurring costs related to paper, printing, and storage space. Plus, digital documents can be encrypted and securely stored, reducing the risk of loss or unauthorized access.

To go paperless, use digital document management tools to store and organize your files. Invest in a good scanner to digitize existing paper files and use OCR software to make them searchable.

Tools like DocuSign or Adobe Sign allow clients to sign documents electronically, saving time and eliminating the need for physical copies. For paperless billing and invoicing, use software like QuickBooks or FreshBooks.

6. Don’t Stop Optimizing

Optimization is an ongoing journey, not a one-time task. In a law firm, continuous improvement is key to staying ahead and maintaining efficiency.

Take the time to re-examine and iron out wrinkles in your workflow—it may be the key to unlocking consistent progress.

Start by setting aside time to periodically review your workflows. This helps identify new bottlenecks or inefficiencies that may have arisen.

Involve your team in these reviews—they use these processes daily and will have valuable insights. Encourage an open dialogue where team members can suggest improvements and share what’s working well.

Stay updated with the latest technology and best practices in the legal industry. New tools and software are constantly being developed, and adopting the right ones can greatly enhance your firm’s productivity.

Attend industry conferences, webinars, and training sessions to keep your knowledge fresh and relevant.

Don’t overlook the small changes. Sometimes, minor adjustments can make a big difference. Whether it’s tweaking an existing process or implementing a new tool, these incremental improvements add up over time.

Regularly monitor the impact of any changes you implement. Use metrics and feedback to assess whether your adjustments are delivering the desired results. If something isn’t working as expected, be ready to pivot and try a different approach.

Start Your Automation Journey With Briefpoint.ai

If you’re new to automation, it only makes sense to start with the tasks that bog you down the most. For most litigation professionals, it’s the paperwork. More specifically, discovery documents.

With Briefpoint.ai, you can take this task off your to-do list in mere minutes. Here’s a sneak peek at how it works:

Upload your discovery request
Insert your objections and responses
Download to Word
Sign and serve!

When you sign up for Briefpoint today, you’ll also get to the all-new feature: Briefpoint Bridge. Briefpoint will translate the requests into plain English and send them to your clients to collect their responses.

Once your client has added their responses, Briefpoint will add them to your response document, and you’re done. No back-and-forth emailing is necessary.

Discover these features for yourself, and sign up for a demo today.

How Legal Professionals Can Make Litigation Cheaper

Under these assumptions, you save $20,477 using Briefpoint, per year, per attorney.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Legal Workflow Optimization

How can I start optimizing my law firm’s workflow?

Begin with a workflow analysis to identify problem areas. Once you know where the issues are, you can implement solutions like automation, updated SOPs, and new workflow management software.

What are some key tools for legal workflow automation?

Legal workflow software like Briefpoint, Clio, and DocuSign can help automate various aspects of your legal workflow, from document creation to data entry.

How important is going paperless for a law firm?

Going paperless can significantly improve efficiency by making documents easier to find, share, and store. It also reduces clutter and is better for the environment.

What are the benefits of better workflow management?

Optimizing your legal workflows can lead to more time servicing clients, a higher standard for legal services, less human error, better decision-making, and so much more. In turn, these advantages can lead to better client satisfaction.

What is the role of practice management software in a law firm?

Practice management software acts as a central hub for managing cases, clients, and tasks. It helps streamline operations, improve communication, and keep everything organized.

8 Best Legal Document Automation Software in 2024

8 Best Legal Document Automation Software in 2024

Advantages of Automating Legal Documents

1. Time Savings

2. Increased Accuracy

3. Cost Efficiency

4. Improved Client Service

5. Consistency and Standardization

6. Better Security and Compliance

7. Scalability and Flexibility

Best Legal Document Automation Software Tools of 2024

1. Briefpoint

Pros

2. Clio

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Cons

3. DocuSign

Pros

Cons

4. PandaDoc

Pros

Cons

5. HotDocs

Pros

Cons

6. Bryter

Pros

Cons

7. Formstack

Pros

Cons

8. Gavel

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Cons

The Best of Document Automation Tools

How Automated Legal Documents Can Save You Money

FAQs About Best Legal Document Automation Software

What are the benefits of using legal document automation software?

What is the best legal document automation software in 2024?

How does legal document automation work?

What other tools does my law firm need?

Is legal document management software safe to use?