8 Ways to Optimize Your Litigation Workflow

Deadlines are piling up, client updates are coming in nonstop, and your team is struggling to keep up with the workload. It’s a common scenario for legal professionals, where managing litigation feels more like putting out fires than following a structured process.

The reality is, inefficiencies in your workflow don’t just slow your law firm down—they add unnecessary stress and make it harder to deliver the best results for your clients. But there’s a better way.

This article offers practical strategies to optimize your litigation workflow, from identifying problem areas to adopting tools that save time and effort. From tackling bottlenecks to adopting time-saving tools, these practical tips can help you bring clarity and efficiency to your practice. Keep reading!

What Are The Biggest Litigation Bottlenecks?

Let’s start with this—before diving into solutions, it’s important to identify what’s holding your workflow back. Litigation processes are complex, and bottlenecks can creep in at various stages.

Here are the most common ones:

Manual tasks: Filing, organizing, and tracking documents take up too much time, leaving little room for other priorities.
Discovery delays: Searching for relevant information and drafting discovery documents often becomes a tedious, time-consuming process.
Communication gaps: Miscommunication between team members or with clients can lead to confusion, missed deadlines, and unnecessary delays.
Outdated methods: Relying on paper files, spreadsheets, or outdated systems slows down collaboration and makes finding information harder.
Overburdened staff: Teams often spend too much time on administrative work, reducing focus on higher-value tasks.

These bottlenecks not only slow things down but can also increase stress and frustration within your team. Once you identify these issues, you can begin addressing them with practical tools and strategies.

Now, we’ll discuss actionable steps to help you maximize your litigation workflow and eliminate these common roadblocks for good.

How to Maximize Your Litigation Workflow

Litigation workflows can become disorganized with so many tasks to manage, but improving them is about making smarter choices to save time and reduce stress. Addressing inefficiencies allows you to focus on achieving better results for your clients.

Here are some practical steps to get you started.

1. Identify Your Worst Roadblocks

As mentioned, it’s important to figure out where your workflow gets stuck before you look for solutions. Let’s say your firm still uses paper files. Sound familiar? Every time you need something, you’re digging through endless stacks of folders and wasting time that could be spent elsewhere.

Or take the discovery phase—it’s one of the most time-consuming parts of litigation. Drafting similar documents over and over manually can eat up hours and leave room for mistakes.

Communication is another common issue. Imagine a client sends over crucial updates, but not everyone on the team gets the memo. Suddenly, deadlines are missed, and everything feels chaotic.

Then there’s the workload. Staff members are often juggling important casework with routine tasks like scheduling and data entry. For example, a paralegal might spend more time managing calendars than actually contributing to the case.

Identifying these problem areas makes it easier to take action. The next challenge is finding the best ways to resolve them.

2. Use Legal Practice Management Software

Legal practice management software simplifies your workflow by consolidating essential tasks into one platform. Instead of juggling multiple tools or relying on outdated methods, you can manage everything more efficiently and focus on more value-adding work.

These tools are designed to handle a variety of tasks, including:

Tracking case deadlines and tasks
Managing client communication and case files
Automating billing and invoicing processes
Generating reports to monitor performance
Storing and sharing documents securely
Handling document review

The software’s centralized approach eliminates the back-and-forth between systems to save you time and reduce errors. For example, it’s easier to keep track of deadlines with built-in calendars and task lists. Features like automated billing also make invoicing quicker and more accurate, helping you get paid faster.

Collaboration becomes seamless, too. Whether you’re sharing updates with your team or accessing files remotely, everything is organized and easily accessible. Many platforms also integrate with tools you already use, like email or cloud storage, which helps organize your workflow even further.

3. Automate Discovery Document Drafting

Drafting discovery documents is a tedious and time-intensive task for legal teams, but automation tools like Briefpoint can make the process faster and more efficient. Briefpoint makes the process faster and way less frustrating by automating much of the work for you.

Here’s how it works: You start by uploading your discovery request to Briefpoint. Its AI jumps in by scanning and pulling key details like the court name, case number, parties involved, and even the type of request. It also applies local formatting rules automatically to save you the hassle of doing it manually.

Once that’s done, the system creates a draft with the basics already filled out, including captions and routine information. From there, you can add objections or responses with just a few clicks, personalizing each request as needed. When everything looks good, you can download the document, open it in Word, and make any final tweaks before filing.

Briefpoint can handle a range of documents, including requests for production, requests for admission, and interrogatories, and it works for all U.S. state courts. It’s an efficient way to cut down on busy work and focus on the bigger picture!

Book a demo to learn more.

4. Digitize As Much As You Can

Relying on paper files in today’s legal world is more trouble than it’s worth. Handling legal disputes, preparing for the appellate process, or filing cases in district court becomes much easier and more efficient when you digitize your workflow.

Think about it: instead of digging through piles of paperwork, you can pull up the relevant documents you need in seconds with a quick search. This can be a huge help, especially when you’re dealing with complex litigation or tight deadlines.

Plus, it makes collaborating with your team so much smoother. Everyone can access the same file, update it in real time, and avoid confusion over multiple versions.

District courts are also moving toward electronic filings, so going digital helps you stay ahead of the curve. From organizing case records to filing appeals, having everything in a centralized, digital system keeps you prepared at every stage.

5. Offer Self-Service Options

Not every question needs a direct call or email. By offering self-service options like a knowledge base or blog, you give clients easy access to information while freeing up your team’s time.

These resources can be especially useful for answering common questions about topics like alternative dispute resolution, navigating the court system, or understanding civil procedure.

A well-organized knowledge base provides quick explanations of legal processes, which helps save clients from waiting for responses. For example, they could look up how alternative dispute resolution works or what to expect during a civil procedure hearing.

Blogs, on the other hand, allow you to share insights on broader topics, like preparing for a district court appearance or tips for managing legal disputes.

These tools don’t just help clients—they position your firm as knowledgeable and proactive. They can also cut down on repetitive inquiries so your team can focus on more pressing tasks.

Once you empower clients with self-service options, you can create a better experience while keeping your workflow efficient. Whether it’s a searchable database or an informative blog, these resources can make legal information more accessible and build trust with your audience.

6. Consider Outsourcing Administrative Tasks

Administrative tasks can pile up quickly and leave your team stretched thin. Outsourcing some of these responsibilities is a smart way to free up time and focus on core work like medical malpractice cases, civil litigation, or resolving disputes.

Here are some common tasks you can outsource:

Preparing defendant answers and other routine legal documents
Managing data entry for civil litigation and criminal cases
Scheduling meetings and managing calendars
Organizing discovery files
Handling client communication for non-urgent inquiries

For example, using a virtual assistant or legal outsourcing service can reduce workloads and improve efficiency while making sure all tasks are handled properly.

7. Invest in a Good CRM Software

Client relationship management (CRM) software is a practical tool for organizing client information, managing interactions, and tracking case details. A well-chosen CRM keeps your team efficient while improving the overall client experience.

These platforms centralize important data such as contact information, case histories, and communication logs.

With everything in one place, finding the details you need becomes much easier. Setting reminders, tracking deadlines, and monitoring case progress also become seamless as they reduce the chance of overlooked tasks.

Integrations with tools like email and document systems further untangle your workflows. Many CRM solutions also include automation features, which help with tasks like sending client updates or creating detailed progress reports.

A reliable CRM sets you up for better communication, improved task management, and smoother operations. It’s a great investment for any legal practice aiming to stay organized and deliver exceptional service to its clients.

8. Switch to Legal Research Tools

Traditional legal research methods can be slow and inefficient. Legal research tools offer a faster, more accurate way to find relevant case law, statutes, and regulations. These tools smoothen the research process and make it easier to focus on case strategy and preparation.

Modern platforms provide advanced search features that help locate information quickly. Instead of sifting through countless pages, you can search for specific terms, exact details, jurisdictions, or topics to narrow down results. These tools often include citation analysis so the cases you reference are still valid and relevant.

Legal research tools also offer access to comprehensive databases covering everything from state-specific laws to federal regulations. They’re particularly useful for complex areas like appellate cases or specialized topics, where accuracy is critical.

Shifting to digital research tools not only saves time but also improves the quality of your work. With the right platform, you’ll spend less time searching and more time building strong arguments for your clients.

Briefpoint is the First Step to Upgrading Your Litigation Workflow

Improving your litigation workflow doesn’t have to feel like a huge challenge. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it’s a great place to start. Tackling bottlenecks, digitizing processes, and using the right tools can make a big difference in how smoothly things run.

When it comes to simplifying repetitive tasks like drafting discovery documents, Briefpoint is an excellent choice. Its AI-powered system helps you save time, reduce errors, and keep everything organized. From requests for production to interrogatories, it handles a wide range of discovery documents with ease.

If you’re looking to make your workflow more efficient, schedule a demo with Briefpoint today and see how it can support your practice.

Optimizing Your Workflow Means Reducing Litigation Costs

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.

Book a demo and save on these costs with Briefpoint.

FAQs About Litigation Workflow

What are the processes of litigation?

Litigation typically involves several steps, including filing the initial complaint, discovery, pre-trial motions, trial, and post-trial activities. Each step focuses on building a case, gathering evidence, and presenting arguments in court.

What are the major phases of litigation?

The major phases of litigation include the pre-litigation phase, the discovery phase, and the trial phase. Pre-litigation involves preparing the case, discovery focuses on gathering evidence, and the trial phase involves presenting the case in court.

What are the 5 stages in a typical lawsuit?

The five stages in a lawsuit usually include pleading, discovery, pre-trial, trial, and appeal. Pleading involves filing documents to start the case; discovery gathers evidence; pre-trial involves motions and preparation; trial presents arguments, and appeals review decisions.

What are the three major phases of most litigation?

Most litigation breaks into three phases: pre-litigation, where cases are prepared and assessed; litigation, where discovery and trial occur; and post-litigation, which handles appeals and enforcement of judgments.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.

This website contains links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser. Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. No reader, user, or browser of this site should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this site without first seeking legal advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website authors, contributors, contributing law firms, or committee members and their respective employers.

Legal AI: Applications & Benefits in 2025

Artificial intelligence has become a huge part of standard legal technology—and for the right reasons.

AI lets law firms move away from rigid and often tedious legal workflows that tradition dictates. As legal professionals learn to work in tandem with AI technology, the benefits become clearer and clearer: Less time spent on repetitive tasks and more time for high-value work that directly translates to billable hours.

Of course, no reputable professional will take anyone’s word for it without doing their due diligence. So, let’s talk about legal AI, its applications, and how legal professionals can benefit from it.

What Is Legal AI?

Legal AI is a technology that uses artificial intelligence to make legal work faster and more efficient. It handles tasks like reviewing contracts, analyzing documents, performing research, and automating processes like drafting agreements or answering client questions.

Natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning allow it to understand legal text, extract key details, flag risks, and predict case outcomes.

How Do Law Firms Use Artificial Intelligence?

AI technology is taking over numerous professional sectors, including business, finance, real estate, and healthcare. The legal industry was quite slower to adopt this type of tech in comparison, but there’s no denying that AI has become a must-have tool for legal professionals.

How did AI make its way into legal departments, an industry that abides by tradition? Here’s a look at some important areas where AI is making a big difference:

1. Document Drafting

Traditionally, creating standard legal documents like contracts, agreements, and wills was a meticulous and time-consuming task that required a lot of attention to detail to make sure everything was accurate and compliant. But now, AI has made this process much more efficient.

Legal AI tools can automate the creation of these standard documents by analyzing large datasets and identifying relevant clauses. A specific type of AI common in document automation and drafting is generative AI.

Generative AI tools draft complex legal documents by generating text that meets the necessary requirements. For example, if a lawyer needs a discovery response document with particular objections, generative AI tools like Briefpoint can produce a draft that includes all the necessary legal language and clauses.

2. Data Synthesis and Document Analysis

In legal work, sorting through piles of documents and data is a given, but it’s also one of the more time-consuming parts of the job. AI is stepping in to simplify this hefty task.

By using AI tools, lawyers can automate the process of organizing and analyzing vast amounts of legal data, from client communications to detailed case histories.

These tools quickly sift through information, extract the necessary details, and present them in a way that’s easy to understand. This speeds up the entire process and reduces the chance of human error.

The result? Legal teams get the insights they need faster, which, in turn, makes it simpler to build cases or advise clients.

3. Legal Research

Legal research is essential for any law practice, as lawyers need to sift through vast amounts of statutes, case law, and legal writings to support their arguments or provide advice. Traditionally, this task has been incredibly time-consuming and sometimes error-prone.

However, large language models (LLMs) and other AI tools are changing the game by speeding up the process and increasing efficiency.

These tools use advanced algorithms, machine learning, and other large language models to comb through extensive legal databases quickly. They can accurately identify relevant cases, laws, and articles much faster than manual methods (way faster than a human can).

This efficiency saves time and helps lawyers build stronger cases by reducing the risk of missing crucial information.

With AI, even smaller law firms or solo practitioners can access comprehensive research quickly, which can help them gain a competitive advantage over larger firms with more resources.

4. Predictive Analysis

Predictive analysis in the legal world means using AI to predict the outcomes of legal cases before they wrap up. This tech dives into heaps of data—from past court decisions to detailed legal precedents—to empower legal professionals to make sound predictions.

This kind of insight can make or break a court victory. For example, it helps lawyers figure out the best strategies for their cases, like whether to settle early or push through to trial based on the predicted outcomes.

But it’s not just about strategizing. Predictive analysis is also great for risk assessment. Law firms use this legal tech to check out the risks of taking on new cases. They can spot potential problems before they blow up, saving everyone a lot of time and money by avoiding drawn-out legal battles.

Clients get a lot from this, too. They receive advice backed by solid data, which can help them make well-informed decisions about their legal issues.

5. Client Communications

Effective communication with clients is an absolute must in the legal profession, but keeping up can be quite a task, especially for busy lawyers. AI is changing how law firms manage this by automating routine interactions and helping maintain consistent, timely communication.

AI tools, such as chatbots and virtual legal assistants, can handle tasks like:

Answering common inquiries from clients
Scheduling appointments
Sending updates about case progress

These tools work around the clock to make sure that clients receive quick responses, which boosts their satisfaction and trust in the legal services provided.

Plus, these AI systems can personalize communications based on client data to make interactions feel more tailored and attentive. For a law firm, this means less time spent on routine tasks and more time available for the complex aspects of their cases.

6. Contract Management

AI models can quickly scan contracts to pinpoint unusual clauses or potential risks. As a result, they speed up the review process and help make sure that everything is up to par legally and aligned with business goals.

When drafting contracts, AI can offer the right language and clauses based on a huge database of existing contracts. AI also helps keep track of active contracts, sending alerts about compliance issues, renewals, or any deviations from the terms.

Such oversight helps prevent problems down the line and makes sure contracts are managed properly.

Stop Spending Hours on Discovery Documents and Let Briefpoint Help

Drafting discovery responses and request documents is by far one of the most tedious parts of the discovery process. What about your legal strategy? The client meetings you have to attend? The other piles of paperwork on your desk?

Sure, you can pile this task on your legal assistant, but that doesn’t solve the overarching problem. Drafting legal documents simply takes up too much time.

Briefpoint.ai gives you an easy solution. With our generative AI, you can draft sets of and responses to:

Requests for Production
Requests for Admission
Interrogatories
Notice of Depositions
And more

And all it takes is just a few minutes. No more spending hours preparing this tedious (yet necessary) paperwork. All you have to do is upload your document, add objections and responses, and finish your draft in Word. Briefpoint takes care of the rest.

With Briefpoint’s built-in feature Bridge, this platform also makes collecting client responses easy. Bridge lets you select specific interrogatories, translate them into plain English, and send them to your client. Once your client responds, Bridge will help you put their responses in your document within minutes.

Book a demo today and see how it all works!

Invest in a Generative AI Tool That Can Save You Thousands

Book a demo and save on these costs with Briefpoint.

FAQs About Legal AI

Is there an AI for law?

Yes, there are several AI tools designed specifically for the legal industry. These tools assist with document review, contract analysis, legal research, and client communication. Popular examples include tools like Briefpoint, Casetext, Kira Systems, and Paxton AI. Legal AI is useful for lawyers, paralegals, and even law students.

What is the best legal AI chatbot?

The best legal AI chatbot depends on your specific needs. AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and LawGeex are popular for general legal inquiries and document drafting. LISA or Legalmation may be more suitable for law firms seeking tailored solutions.

Can ChatGPT write legal memos?

Yes, ChatGPT is a natural language processing AI that can help you write legal memos. However, it’s essential to review and verify its output for accuracy, as it may not always provide jurisdiction-specific or up-to-date legal information. It works best as a starting point for drafting.

Can AI take over the role of human lawyers?

While AI can automate many tasks that lawyers do, it’s unlikely to replace human lawyers entirely. AI is great at handling routine and data-heavy legal tasks, but complex legal reasoning, strategy development, and ethical decision-making need human insight and experience.

Are there any risks with legal AI?

Yes, there are some risks and ethical concerns with using legal AI. One big concern is data privacy since AI systems handle sensitive client information. Keeping this data secure is crucial. There’s also the issue of bias; AI can unintentionally carry over biases from the data it was trained on, leading to unfair outcomes. While AI is generally reliable, it’s not perfect and can make mistakes, especially in complex legal practices.

What Litigation Software Do Lawyers Use? (5 Best Options)

Litigation is complex, time-consuming, and often very challenging, even for the best of litigators. There’s little we can do about that. But what you can do is make it more efficient.

Legal AI and automation have significantly changed legal technology, affecting every part of how law firms work.

It’s time to cut through the hype and find out which legal tools are really making a difference and which ones can truly help.

What Is Litigation Software?

Litigation management software is built to help legal teams manage the details of their cases more effectively. It focuses on case-specific tasks like filing deadlines, managing evidence, and handling filings.

Everything related to a case—court dates, documents, emails, and evidence—is organized in one place, so lawyers can spend less time juggling paperwork and more time focusing on strategy.

This is different from legal practice management software, which focuses on the business side of running a law firm, like billing, scheduling, and client management. While practice management tools are great for overall operations, litigation management software is specifically designed to keep cases on track.

Key features include:

Tracking case progress with real-time updates and reminders
Managing evidence and documents in one easy-to-access system
Simplifying filings through integration with court systems
Streamlining team communication and collaboration

Litigation management software ensures lawyers have everything they need for their cases in one place, reducing stress and improving efficiency. It’s an essential tool for firms handling complex or high-stakes cases, especially when paired with practice management software to cover the firm’s operational needs.

What Litigation Software Do Lawyers Use?

Modern law firms take advantage of technology tools to maximize their legal workflows in terms of efficiency, accuracy, consistency, and profitability. But if you’re new to legal software, it can be challenging to figure out which ones will work best for your practice.

That said, we’ve compiled some of the best legal tools you can start your tech stack with:

1. Briefpoint.ai: Discovery Document Generation

Perhaps one of the most tedious tasks of discovery is preparing the documents, such as discovery requests and responses.

But what if you could automate that process and spend no more than a few minutes on each document?

Litigation attorneys know the drill: hours spent drafting discovery documents, only to end up with a stack of repetitive papers.

Briefpoint.ai is here to change that, taking the tedium out of the discovery process with automated document creation.

Best Features:

Automation: Briefpoint.ai cuts down on manual effort by automating the entire document generation process. With just a few clicks, you can generate comprehensive discovery documents, saving hours of work and reducing the chance of errors.
Accuracy: This software helps make sure all your documents meet current legal standards and requirements. Precision is crucial in legal proceedings, and with predefined templates and standardized fields, Briefpoint.ai keeps everything accurate and reliable.
Efficiency: By streamlining document creation, Briefpoint.ai allows your legal team to focus more on case strategy and less on administrative tasks. As your case workflow becomes more agile, your team’s productivity surges. You’ll start resolving cases in record time, and suddenly, you’ll have the bandwidth to tackle new challenges head-on.
Client responses: Briefpoint Bridge automates the process of collecting client responses and plugging them into discovery documents. With this feature, you no longer have to go through the tedious back-and-forth trying to collect and process your clients’ responses.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

2. Casefleet: Litigation Management

CaseFleet provides legal professionals with a specialized case management solution to organize, analyze, and streamline complex legal workflows.

Its powerful tools, including a timeline builder and document linking, make it a suitable choice for litigation teams aiming to stay efficient and organized.

Source: Casefleet.com

Best Features

Timeline builder: Enables detailed timelines that connect facts, evidence, and legal issues for clear case analysis.
Integrated document linking: Simplifies access to evidence by attaching legal documents directly to timeline events.
Advanced search functionality: Quickly retrieves critical case details with search tools.
Collaboration tools: Helps build teamwork with shared case data and real-time updates.
Task management: Keeps tasks and critical deadlines organized for smooth workflow execution.

Limitations

Limited third-party integrations: Restricts compatibility with other commonly used legal tools.
Steep learning curve: Advanced features may require extra time for new users to master.
Pricing considerations: It may not be budget-friendly for smaller firms or solo practitioners

3. HighQ: Collaboration and Matter Management

HighQ is a powerful tool that helps legal teams work smarter, especially when it comes to managing the litigation process. It combines features like document management, secure file sharing, and workflow automation to make handling complex cases a lot easier.

Source: ThomsonReuters.com

Best Features

Document management: Makes organizing and collaborating on case files simple with secure storage and version control.
Workflow automation: Saves time by automating routine tasks to help litigation teams focus on strategy.
Secure file sharing: Keeps sensitive case files safe with encrypted sharing and access controls.
Client portals: Offers an easy way to share updates and make sure clients are on the same page.
Integrations: Works well with tools like Microsoft Office and other legal software to make litigation workflows smoother.

Limitations

Complex interface: Might take some getting used to for teams new to this type of platform.
High cost: Can be pricey, which might be a challenge for smaller firms or teams on a budget.
Limited offline functionality: Requires internet access, so it’s not ideal when facing connectivity issues.

4. Smokeball: Civil Litigation Management

Smokeball is a user-friendly case management software tailored for small to mid-sized law firms, especially those focused on civil litigation. It combines document automation, task tracking, and timekeeping features, making it a one-stop solution for managing civil litigation cases efficiently.

Source: Smokeball.com

Best Features

Case management: Centralizes all case details, relevant documents, and communications in one place so you can easily manage tasks.
Document automation: Simplifies the creation of litigation documents, saving time and reducing errors.
Time and activity tracking: Automatically tracks time spent on tasks to improve billing accuracy.
Task and workflow management: Keeps litigation tasks organized with clear deadlines and reminders.
Integrated email and calendar: Syncs with Outlook to connect communications with specific cases.

Limitations

Learning curve: New users may need time to get familiar with all the features.
Limited customization: Predefined workflows might not fully meet the needs of more complex litigation practices.
Cost concerns: Pricing may be steep for smaller firms with tighter budgets.

5. Lex Machina: Legal Analytics

Lex Machina is a smart litigation analytics tool that helps legal teams make better decisions using data. It provides insights into case trends, judges, and opposing counsel, which makes it easier to plan strategies and predict case outcomes based on valuable insights.

Source: LexMachina.com

Best Features

Judge analytics: Gives insights into how judges typically rule so you can adjust your approach accordingly.
Opposing counsel analysis: Shows data on your opponent’s past cases, helping you understand their strengths and weaknesses.
Case trend analysis: Tracks patterns in litigation to help you predict what might happen in similar cases.
Settlement predictions: Uses historical data to estimate the chances of settling or winning.
Industry-specific modules: Offers tailored insights for areas like IP, employment law, and more.

Limitations

Learning curve: Some features take time to get the hang of.
High cost: Might be pricey for smaller firms or solo lawyers.
Limited coverage: Doesn’t include every court or jurisdiction yet.

Make Discovery Less Tedious Today

Every litigator knows that discovery is one of the most time-consuming phases of a case. And within that process lies a huge bottleneck: discovery document drafting.

Manual drafting can take hours out of your or your paralegal’s day–hours that you could otherwise spend on more substantial work.

Where’s the way forward?

Briefpoint is document automation software that lets you create discovery documents within minutes. Schedule a demo today and see the magic for yourself.

Maximize Your Profitability With Briefpoint

Book a demo and save on these costs with Briefpoint.

FAQs About Litigation Software

What software do most law firms use?

Most law firms use a combination of legal practice management software, document management tools, billing and time tracking software, and legal research platforms. Popular choices include Clio, PracticePanther, LexisNexis, and MyCase for managing cases and administrative tasks. Tools like Westlaw and Bloomberg Law are widely used for research. Briefpoint is the best option for discovery document drafting.

What software is used in law?

The legal industry uses software tailored to specific needs, such as legal research tools (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis), practice management platforms (e.g., Clio, MyCase), litigation management software (e.g., CaseFleet), billing and time tracking tools (e.g., TimeSolv, Bill4Time), and contract analysis tools (e.g., Kira Systems, LawGeex).

What is legal CRM software?

Legal CRM software helps law firms manage client relationships more effectively. It centralizes client contact information, tracks case histories, and automates follow-ups and reminders. Tools like Clio Grow, Law Ruler, and Zoho CRM help firms improve communication, maintain client satisfaction, and streamline client intake processes.

What billing software do large law firms use?

Large law firms often use robust billing software designed to handle complex billing structures and high volumes of work. Popular options include Elite 3E, TimeSolv, and Bill4Time, which offer features like time tracking, expense logging, and customizable invoices. These tools ensure accurate billing and help streamline financial management.

Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. No reader, user, or browser of this site should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this site without first seeking legal advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website authors, contributors, contributing law firms, or committee members and their respective employers.

7 Best Legal AI Companies of 2025

The legal industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation thanks to artificial intelligence 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 legal AI companies driving this transformation in 2025.

Artificial Intelligence in the Legal Industry

When AI software 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

Legal AI is revolutionizing work by bringing speed, accuracy, and cost savings to tasks that once bogged down legal teams. It processes vast amounts of data in seconds, allowing lawyers to handle cases faster and focus on high-value tasks that maximize client satisfaction.

Accuracy is another major advantage. AI can identify patterns and anomalies that even the most detail-oriented human might miss, which helps achieve greater precision in areas where mistakes can be costly. For tasks like document review and legal research, this level of reliability is invaluable.

AI also slashes operational costs by automating repetitive tasks like categorizing documents and generating reports. Law firms save time and resources, which helps empower legal professionals for more strategic work.

Access to information is faster and more thorough than ever. AI tools sift through massive databases in seconds, finding relevant case law, statutes, and precedents. This means lawyers can build stronger cases backed by comprehensive research in a fraction of the time.

Firms that once hesitated to adopt AI are now seeing its benefits—more efficient workflows, reduced costs, and happier clients.

7 Best AI-Powered Tools for Legal Teams

Let’s face it: the legal landscape 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 2025, there are dozens upon dozens of AI-powered tools in the legal sector. However, only a handful stand out:

1. Briefpoint

Briefpoint 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 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 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 helps legal professionals conduct research with its AI-driven capabilities. Traditional legal research can be daunting and time-consuming, but Casetext simplifies this process.

Source: G2

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 for legal practices. 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.

Source: Luminance.com

Luminance is a flexible platform that 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 an intelligent assistant 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.

Source: LawToolBox.com

LawToolBox relieves pressure by handling legal deadline calculations. You can enter the case information, and LawToolBox will calculate all the critical dates and update 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 weight off your shoulders by expertly managing every stage of the contract lifecycle to give you back valuable time and energy.

Source: G2

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.

Source: G2

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 handles due diligence and document review for legal teams. It helps lawyers obtain a higher level of efficiency and insight.

Source: G2

Imagine having a tool that allows you to efficiently sift through legal files, quickly identifying the most critical documents. Everlaw streamlines this process, significantly reducing the time spent on traditionally labor-intensive tasks.

The platform’s intuitive design simplifies document organization. With features such as drag-and-drop functionality, custom tags, and advanced search filters, it is easy to focus on the work without worrying about formatting.

Everlaw also offers robust document review capabilities, including tools for redaction, annotation, and metadata analysis. These features ensure that you can capture and work with all relevant details efficiently and effectively.

Will AI Replace Legal Professionals?

The idea of AI replacing legal professionals is a hot topic, but let’s be clear: while AI is transforming the legal world, it’s not about to replace lawyers. Instead, AI is a tool that enhances what legal professionals can do, not a substitute for their expertise.

AI shines in handling repetitive, time-consuming tasks like document review, legal research, and legal data analysis. These are essential but don’t require the strategic thinking and nuanced understanding lawyers bring to the table.

By automating these processes, AI frees up lawyers to focus on high-stakes strategy, client relationships, and providing expert legal advice.

The human element in law remains irreplaceable. Lawyers navigate the complexities of human behavior, emotions, and motivations while negotiating, mediating, and upholding justice. Ethical and moral judgment—core to the legal profession—can’t be replicated by AI.

AI takes care of the grunt work, but it can’t interpret laws with depth or provide the human connection that clients rely on. Rather than replacing lawyers, AI lightens their load and allows them to work smarter and focus on what they do best. It’s a partnership, not a replacement.

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

Book a demo and save on these costs with Briefpoint.

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, but it is changing how legal professionals work. 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.

The Best Document Automation Software Features To Look For

Imagine skipping the hassle of drafting the same contracts or filling in client details over and over. With document automation software, that’s exactly what you can do.

These tools handle repetitive tasks, keeping your documents consistent, accurate, and error-free. They save time and let you focus on more important work, whether you’re a lawyer, paralegal, or legal assistant.

With so many options available, finding the right software can feel overwhelming. The ideal tool should make your workflow smoother, help you manage documents efficiently, and simplify your day.

This guide breaks down the key features of document automation software to show how it can transform the way you handle legal documents and everyday tasks!

What is Document Automation Software?

Document automation software is designed to take repetitive tasks off your plate, like drafting contracts or inputting client details. By automating these processes, it makes sure your documents are accurate, consistent, and ready in less time.

Whether you’re managing contracts or legal paperwork, this tool helps reduce errors and frees up your time for higher-value work. It’s a practical solution for professionals like lawyers and paralegals who want to simplify document management without sacrificing quality.

Standalone Document Automation Software vs. Built-In Document Automation Features

Choosing between standalone document automation software and built-in document automation features can be a bit of a puzzle.

Standalone software is dedicated solely to automating your document processes, offering robust, specialized tools that handle everything from template creation to advanced data merging.

It’s a powerful option for firms that need comprehensive automation capabilities and want to make sure every document is spot-on.

On the other hand, built-in document automation features are part of larger software suites that include various other functionalities.

These features might not be as powerful or customizable as standalone options, but they can be incredibly convenient if you’re already using the parent software. Plus, they can integrate into your existing workflow, so it’s easier to manage all your tasks from a single platform.

In a nutshell, if you need extensive, specialized automation, standalone software is the way to go. If convenience and integration with your current tools are your top priorities, built-in features could be the perfect fit.

Document Automation Features to Look For

When selecting document automation software, you need to prioritize features that will seriously optimize your productivity and precision.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the must-have features in document automation tools:

1. Template Management

Document automation software gets a whole lot more efficient when you have template management on your side to let you generate documents with ease. Good document management software will have:

Pre-built templates: Save time with a library of ready-to-use document templates for various document types, all customizable to fit your needs.
Template creation: User-friendly, drag-and-drop tools let you design your own templates from scratch. Build custom details by adding placeholders, dynamic fields, and conditional logic to craft documents that truly speak to each individual.

Template management also offers collaboration and version control:

Collaborative editing: Multiple users can work on templates at the same time, which keeps everything up-to-date and in line with company standards.
Version control: Track changes and go back to previous versions if needed, so your templates are always accurate and reliable.

Good template management cuts down the time and effort needed to produce professional documents.

When everything is in sync, document processes hum along smoothly and foster a significant jump in efficiency and productivity.

2. Data Integration

Document automation software helps keep your critical data organized by integrating disparate systems and applications. This helps make sure data flows smoothly, which cuts down on manual entry and minimizes errors.

For instance, integrating with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems like Salesforce or HubSpot lets you pull customer data directly into your documents.

By generating personalized contracts, proposals, and reports on the fly, you can say goodbye to tedious data entry and enjoy automated document workflows that hum along with precision.

Beyond CRMs, connecting with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems allows for automatically including financial data, inventory details, and other essential business info into relevant documents.

This makes sure your documents always reflect the latest business data, helping you make more informed decisions.

Plus, having robust API support means you can set up custom connections with various software applications. This flexibility lets you tailor your document workflows to fit your specific needs and make sure everything runs more smoothly and efficiently.

3. Workflow Automation

Automating your workflow with document automation software makes your processes smoother, faster, and hassle-free.

More specifically, it helps automate repetitive tasks and ensures that documents move smoothly through various stages of creation, review, and approval.

Key components of workflow automation include:

Conditional logic: You can set up custom rules that trigger document creation based on your specific requirements. For example:
- Populate certain fields or sections of a document when specific conditions are met.
- Automatically select templates or content based on user input or data changes.
Approval workflows: This feature lets you set up multi-step approval processes, which makes sure that each document is reviewed and approved by the necessary parties before it’s finalized. Benefits include:
- Double-checking every detail to make sure everything meets the highest standards
- Streamlining the approval process with automated alerts and notifications.
Notifications and alerts: Keep everyone in the loop with reminders of pending approvals or actions needed so everything runs smoothly. This enhances accountability and ensures timely processing.

Document automation software eliminates the tedium of manual document handling and erases hours of repetitive tasks from your schedule. What’s left is a clutter-free work environment and more of your most valuable resource: time.

Plus, automating routine tasks gives you more time to focus on strategic work, which helps increase productivity and improve the overall quality of your document management.

4. Collaboration Tools

Collaboration tools in document automation software are a must-have for teams working together. They make it incredibly easy for everyone to stay on the same page and get things done efficiently. One of the best features is real-time editing.

This means multiple people can work on the same document simultaneously and see changes instantly. There are no more endless email chains or waiting for someone to finish their part.

Another handy feature is the ability to leave comments and annotations right on the document. Clear guidance means everyone’s on the same page, and it’s obvious what needs a refresh or a boost.

Plus, version control is another must-have. With this feature, you’ve got a safety net—you can track changes and bounce back to earlier versions if necessary, so your document stays flawless and current.

5. eSignature Integration

Faster document turnaround times rely on seamless eSignature integration. With built-in eSignature capabilities, you can add legally binding electronic signatures to your documents without leaving the platform. You’ll save time, slash paperwork, and breeze through the signing process.

Popular eSignature tools like DocuSign and Adobe Sign are often supported by the software, which makes it easy to integrate your favorite signing tools. You get to stick with the eSignature service you love, plus enjoy a smooth ride with your document workflows.

eSignature integration reduces security risks, shielding documents from tampering and cyber threats. Electronic signatures are often more secure than traditional paper ones because they come with encryption and authentication features.

6. Document Security

Safeguarding sensitive information is a top priority in document automation software—after all, your data needs to be locked down tight.

When it comes to keeping confidential files confidential, encryption is the fortified wall that stands between them and would-be hackers. With end-to-end encryption, your documents are secure both in transit and at rest, meaning they’re protected whether they’re being sent over the internet or stored in the cloud.

Access controls are another important feature. Role-based access allows you to specify who can view, edit, or share documents, greatly minimizing the risk of data breaches and unintended exposure.

You can set permissions based on user roles so that each team member only has access to the information they need.

Audit trails provide an added layer of security and accountability. Everything that happens to a document is tracked in these detailed logs – the editing, the creating, and the sharing.

Regulatory compliance and monitoring are much easier thanks to this transparent system that lays out who did what and when in plain sight. If any unauthorized activity occurs, it can be quickly identified and addressed.

The Benefits of Document Automation for Law Firms

A document automation tool has become the ultimate necessity for any modern law firm. Here’s why:

Increased Time Efficiency

Automating repetitive tasks like drafting contracts or filling in client details frees up a lot of time. And in the law industry, time literally translates into money.

Automated document generation lets legal professionals focus on more complex, value-added tasks instead of getting bogged down by routine paperwork.

In other words, speeding up document creation helps legal teams use their time more efficiently.

Improved Consistency and Accuracy

Document automation platforms help make sure every document follows the same format and contains accurate information.

Cleaning up errors and giving your documents a sharp, put-together look is a piece of cake with this approach.

Think of consistent formatting and language as the unsung heroes of document creation – they’re the details that set a company apart from its competitors and establish a sense of credibility.

Better Cost-Efficiency

Imagine the cost benefits of offloading document creation duties from staff members. Law firms can do just that by going digital. Fewer errors mean less time and money spent on corrections.

By switching to automated document processes, companies can free up valuable resources and potentially trim their staffing needs.

Improved Client Satisfaction

Faster turnaround times for documents make clients happier. When clients receive accurate documents on time, their trust in your firm’s capabilities grows exponentially.

For any business, there’s no better calling card than a satisfied client; they’ll come back for more and sing your praises to others.

Better Security and Compliance

Document automation software often comes with built-in security features that protect sensitive information. Safeguarding your clients’ data is essential for building loyal partnerships; confidentiality is paramount in this process.

Cutting-edge defenses, including rock-solid encryption and precision access controls, fend off cyber threats and data smugglers to safeguard your complex documents from prying eyes.

Automation helps make sure all documents adhere to the latest legal standards and regulations. One wrongly checked box can lead to a world of legal woes, but this preventative measure clears the path.

How to Choose the Perfect Document Automation Solution for Your Law Firm

To eliminate inefficiencies and catapult your law firm to the next level, you need a document automation solution specifically tailored to your needs.

By doing so, you’ll be able to clock faster turnaround times, diminish errors, and consistently impress clients with top-tier service. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:

Identify Your Needs

Start by figuring out what your law firm really needs. Then, take a hard look at your current workflows—can automation help with pesky tasks like document creation, review, and management?

Identify the types of documents you deal with most often, such as contracts, pleadings, or correspondence, to make sure the solution can handle them.

Also, consider which existing systems, like case management or CRM software, the document automation tool needs to integrate with for smooth data flow and efficiency.

Key Features to Look For

When selecting a document automation solution, ask yourself: which features will tangibly improve our firm’s workflow and free up more time for high-leverage activities?

Look for solid template management with pre-built templates and easy customization options. Make sure the solution supports data integration with your existing systems to organize data transfer and cut down on manual entry.

Automating tasks is a top priority, so make sure to look for features that can handle document creation, get approvals, and send out notifications – all without you having to lift a finger.

Evaluate Usability

Usability is crucial when choosing a document automation solution. The software should have a user-friendly interface that’s easy for everyone on your team to use.

Check the availability of training resources and customer support to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing assistance.

Life’s unpredictable, and your work style should be, too. To give your team the flexibility they need, ensure that your solution can keep up with mobile access.

Consider Scalability

When selecting a document automation solution, consider your firm’s future growth. Choose software that can scale with your firm and handle increasing document volumes and additional users as needed.

Find software that’s adaptable and can be upgraded with new features as your needs shift. This way, you can rest assured it’ll stay relevant and meet your changing requirements.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Conduct a cost-benefit analysis to determine the best solution for your budget. Compare the costs of different solutions and consider the potential return on investment through improved efficiency, reduced errors, and improved client satisfaction.

Make sure the benefits outweigh the costs to get the most value from your document automation software.

Trial and Feedback

Take advantage of free trials and demos to test out different document automation solutions. Put the software to the test in your setting, and you’ll see exactly how it can be applied to solve real problems and streamline processes.

During the trial, gather honest insights from your team—it’s the best way to determine if the solution has everyone’s best interests at heart. You’ll be empowered to make smart calls that resonate throughout your organization.

Choosing the right document automation solution is a must for maximizing your law firm’s efficiency and productivity. Briefpoint.ai offers legal pros a personalized toolkit, specifically crafted to help firms like yours excel.

Here are the key reasons why Briefpoint is the best document automation software:

User-friendly interface: Briefpoint features an intuitive and easy-to-use design that requires minimal training. This allows your staff to focus more on their legal work rather than struggling with complex software.
Advanced document automation: The platform excels in streamlining the creation, review, and management of legal documents. With an exhaustive collection of templates at your fingertips, manual data entry becomes a thing of the past, replaced by accuracy and professionalism.
Robust security measures: Security is a top priority with Briefpoint, which is why we offer end-to-end encryption to protect your documents, automatic backups, payment security, and other tight measures.
Scalability and support: Briefpoint is designed to grow with your law firm, handling increasing document volumes and additional users seamlessly. Exceptional customer support, including training resources and a dedicated support team, makes sure that you always have the help you need.
Easier response collection: Briefpoint Bridge is a built-in feature that lets you translate interrogatories into easy-to-understand language, send them to your client, and plug in their responses directly into your draft.

How to Use Briefpoint

Using Briefpoint is straightforward and efficient, thanks to its advanced machine learning and AI capabilities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Upload Your Discovery Request

Begin by uploading your discovery request document to Briefpoint. The platform’s machine-learning AI system will immediately start scanning and extracting information from your document. This includes:

Court name: Automatically applies local formatting rules.
Case number: Extracts and inputs the case number.
Parties: Identifies and records the involved parties.
Request type: Recognizes whether it’s an RFA, RFP, Interrogatory, or Form Interrogatory.
Set number: Extracts the set number and much more.

Step 2: Briefpoint’s AI Suggests and Writes Objections

Once the AI system has created a caption and filled out some of the routine data within your brief, including the requests or interrogatories, you can let Briefpoint handle the objections.

Simply click “Suggest,” and Briefpoint’s patented AI system chooses and writes the appropriate objections to each of your opposing counsels’ requests. This streamlined process helps you efficiently complete your responses with minimal manual effort.

Step 3: Open in Word

At any point during the process, you can download your document and open it in Word. This allows you to finish any remaining details on your computer. You’ll receive a properly formatted, mostly-completed brief that’s ready for final touches or even for filing.

Unlimited Savings With the Right Document Automation System

Book a demo and save on these costs with Briefpoint.

FAQs About Document Automation Tools

What is legal document automation software?

With document automation software, the heavy lifting is taken care of⎯you simply review, revise, and repeat, minus the manual hassle. Client information and legal forms are a thing of the past⎯now, you’ve got more time to tackle the more important stuff.

What key features should I look for in document automation software?

Look for template management, integration capabilities, document assembly collaboration tools, version control, e-signatures, data merge, a smooth document creation process, and conditional logic.

These features help ensure your documents are accurate, up-to-date, and easy to access. They also make it easier to collaborate, reduce manual data entry, and minimize the chance of errors in document creation.

How does document automation improve client satisfaction?

It speeds up document creation, reduces errors, and provides timely, accurate documents, which boosts client trust and satisfaction.

Clients love getting well-prepared documents quickly, reflecting well on your firm’s efficiency. Sweeping away annoying delays and mistakes, document automation paves the way for stronger, more authentic client bonds.

What is a document management software?

A Document Management System (DMS) is software that helps organizations store, manage, and track electronic documents. It provides features for organizing, retrieving, and securing documents, facilitating efficient document handling, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Legal Billing Software: What You Need to Know (+ 7 Best Options)

Managing billing at a law firm can be tricky. With multiple clients, trust accounts, and countless billable hours to track, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. And the truth for most of the legal industry: Managing invoices and payments manually isn’t just time-consuming; it’s a recipe for errors and delays.

Legal billing software is specifically designed to simplify these challenges. It handles everything from tracking time to managing payments so you can stay organized and avoid mistakes.

In this guide, we’ll break down what legal billing software is, why it’s different from regular accounting tools, and how it can benefit your firm. Plus, we’ve rounded up seven top options to help you find the best fit for your practice!

What Is Legal Billing Software?

Legal billing software is made specifically for law firms to handle billing, payments, and trust accounts. It helps track billable hours, send out invoices, and manage payments without all the hassle.

Unlike regular accounting software, it’s built with law firms in mind, including features to keep things compliant and organized.

Here’s what it can do:

Makes it easy to log billable hours
Generate clear, professional bills for clients
Keep client funds properly organized
Check payments, balances, and expenses with a few clicks
Works with case management systems to save time

In short, legal billing software helps you stay on top of your billing, avoid errors, and spend more time focusing on your clients.

How Does It Differ From Regular Accounting Software?

Legal billing software is tailored specifically to the unique needs of law firms, while regular accounting software is more general and designed for businesses across various industries.

One major difference is time tracking. Legal billing software lets you track billable and non-billable hours accurately, which helps make sure your invoices reflect the work done for each client—something standard accounting software typically doesn’t offer.

Another key feature is trust accounting, which is critical for law firms to manage client trust funds and comply with legal regulations. Generic accounting tools aren’t equipped to handle this.

Additionally, legal billing software provides specialized reports, such as case-specific cost breakdowns and client expense summaries, which go beyond the standard financial reports found in regular tools.

Many legal billing platforms also integrate with case management systems to organize workflows in a way that generic software often can’t. These differences make legal billing software a much better choice for law firms.

Why Do Law Firms Need Legal Billing Software?

Legal billing software isn’t just convenient—it’s essential for law firms aiming to stay organized, save time, and improve accuracy. Here’s why it’s worth the investment:

Accurate Billing

Tracking every billable minute manually can be a real headache. It’s easy to miss a few minutes here and there, and those small errors can add up to big losses over time. Plus, mistakes in the legal billing process can lead to client disputes, which no one wants to deal with.

Legal billing software takes the kinks out of the process. It tracks your time automatically, so you know exactly how many hours you’ve worked and can create accurate, detailed invoices.

Clients appreciate clear, transparent billing, and you’ll avoid awkward conversations about charges that don’t add up. On top of that, you’ll get paid for every minute of the work you’ve done.

Time Savings

Creating invoices and tracking payments manually can take up hours you could spend on client cases or other important work. Legal billing software simplifies these tasks by automating time tracking, invoice generation, and payment reminders, making the process much quicker and easier.

With everything handled in just a few clicks, you save countless hours that would’ve been spent on repetitive administrative work. Automation also helps reduce errors, so you’re not stuck fixing mistakes later.

By freeing up your schedule, legal billing software lets you focus on your clients and their cases without getting bogged down by tedious billing tasks.

Better Cash Flow

Legal billing software improves cash flow by taking the hassle out of getting paid. Here’s how it helps:

Automated reminders: The software sends reminders to clients automatically, which helps reduce delays.
Online payment options: Clients can pay instantly through secure online portals, making the process faster and more convenient.
Fewer overdue invoices: With clear invoices and easy payment methods, clients are less likely to miss deadlines.

By combining these features, legal billing software keeps the payments coming in on time, so your firm runs smoothly without the stress of unpaid bills.

Trust Account Management

Managing client trust funds comes with a lot of responsibility, and even small mistakes can lead to serious issues. Legal billing software makes trust account management much simpler by organizing funds and making sure everything stays compliant with legal standards.

It tracks deposits and withdrawals accurately, so you always know where client funds stand. Many tools also include built-in safeguards to prevent errors, such as mixing trust funds with operating funds. This helps maintain compliance and gives you peace of mind knowing everything is handled properly.

Detailed Reporting

Legal billing software takes the guesswork out of understanding your firm’s financial health by providing detailed reports. These reports give you a clear breakdown of case expenses, client payments, and outstanding balances, all in one place. Instead of sifting through spreadsheets or scattered data, you can access organized insights with just a few clicks.

Whether you’re checking which clients have unpaid invoices, analyzing case profitability, or planning budgets, these reports make it easy to see where things stand. The ability to quickly pull up accurate financial information saves time and helps you make better decisions for your firm.

Our Top 7 Picks for Legal Billing Software

Choosing the right legal billing software can make a big difference in how efficiently your firm operates. With so many options available, it’s important to find a tool that fits your specific needs. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best legal billing software options.

1. Clio

Clio is a versatile legal practice management platform that offers tools for case management, document organization, client communication, and more.

While it’s not primarily a billing software, Clio includes great billing features designed to simplify invoicing, time tracking, and trust account management.

Source: G2

Key Features

Time tracking and billing: Track billable hours precisely and generate detailed invoices tailored to your clients.
Customizable invoice templates: Create professional, branded invoices that reflect your firm’s style and include all necessary details.
Secure client portal: Provide clients a secure space to view invoices, share documents, and communicate directly with your firm.
Trust accounting management: Keep client funds compliant and organized with tools to separate trust and operating accounts.
Integration with popular tools: Sync with QuickBooks, Google Workspace, Zoom, and more to optimize your workflows.

Pros

Easy to use, even for those new to legal billing software.
Excellent customer support for troubleshooting and setup.

Cons

Pricing can be high for smaller firms or solo practitioners.
Advanced features may require a steeper learning curve.

Pricing

Clio offers plans starting at $49 per user per month which includes a basic legal billing system, as well as flexible payment options.

2. Timesolv

Timesolv is online legal billing software designed to help law firms easily manage their billing processes. This billing solution is particularly well-suited for smaller firms and solo practitioners as it balances affordability and functionality.

Source: G2

Key Features

Cloud-based access: Work from anywhere with secure access to time tracking, billing, and client data, whether on a computer or mobile device.
Advanced time tracking: Log billable and non-billable hours accurately with built-in timers and manual entry options.
Split billing: Easily divide invoices between multiple clients or matters, making complex billing scenarios hassle-free.
Trust accounting tools: Track client trust funds with tools to maintain compliance and keep funds organized separately from operating accounts.
Detailed reporting: Generate reports on billing, payments, and firm performance to get a clear picture of your financial health.

Pros

Affordable for smaller firms and solo attorneys.
Offers strong data security features.

Cons

Limited customization options for invoices.
Can feel basic for larger firms needing advanced features.

Pricing

Timesolv’s pricing starts at $49.99 for up to four users. The starting plan includes trust accounting, unlimited clients, and integration with other legal management software.

3. Lawpay

Lawpay is a payment processing solution built specifically for law firms and focuses on making transactions easy and compliant. It’s not complete legal office billing software, but it works seamlessly alongside your existing tools to simplify payment collection and trust accounting.

Source: G2

Key Features

Secure payment processing: Accept credit card payments, ACH transfers, and eChecks, all while making sure client funds are handled securely.
Trust account compliance: Automatically separates earned and unearned funds to help you meet trust accounting requirements without the risk of commingling.
Customizable payment pages: Create branded payment pages for your website to provide a professional and convenient experience for clients.
Recurring payment options: Set up recurring billing for ongoing matters, which reduces administrative tasks.
Detailed transaction reporting: Track all payments and deposits in real time so it’s easier to manage finances and maintain accurate records.

Pros

Simplifies trust accounting for compliance.
Easy to set up and use for legal professionals.

Cons

Limited features compared to all-in-one billing software.
Pricing may feel high for firms looking for more comprehensive tools.

Pricing

Lawpay offers plans starting at $19 per month, including features like trust account protection, unlimited users, and customizable website payment pages.

4. Smokeball

Smokeball is a cloud-based legal practice management software that offers tools for billing, case management, and document automation. While it’s known for its comprehensive features, its billing functionality stands out with automatic time tracking and pre-built templates.

Source: G2

Key Features

Automatic time tracking: Captures all billable and non-billable hours without requiring manual input.
Pre-built invoice templates: Create detailed and professional invoices quickly, with options to include time entries, expenses, and case-specific details.
Case and matter management: Organize all case-related files, deadlines, and communications in one centralized platform.
Document automation: Generate legal documents quickly with pre-built templates tailored for various practice areas.
Trust accounting management: Easily handle client trust funds with tools designed to ensure compliance and accuracy.

Pros

Great for small teams needing simple but powerful tools.
Intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate.

Cons

Lacks advanced reporting features found in larger platforms.
Pricing can be steep for firms with limited budgets.

Pricing

Smokeball’s pricing is not currently publicly available.

5. FreshBooks

FreshBooks is a popular accounting and invoicing platform ideal for solo attorneys and small law firms.

It’s not designed exclusively for legal professionals, but its intuitive interface and billing features make it a great option for those who need simple, straightforward tools for managing invoices, payments, and expenses.

Source: G2

Key Features

Expense tracking: Easily log and categorize firm expenses to keep your finances organized and track costs against budgets.
Automated invoice reminders: Sends friendly reminders to clients automatically to help you get timely payments without the need for manual follow-ups.
Multi-currency and multi-language support: Perfect for firms with international clients as it offers flexibility in billing for different currencies and languages.
Online payment options: Accept payments via credit cards, ACH transfers, or payment gateways, which makes it easy and convenient for clients to pay invoices.
Detailed financial reporting: Provides insights into income, expenses, profit margins, and outstanding balances.

Pros

Easy to use, even for those without accounting experience.
Affordable pricing plans for solo practitioners.

Cons

Limited legal-specific features compared to dedicated legal billing tools.
Trust account management requires additional setup.

Pricing

FreshBooks starts at $4.75 per month, offering a budget-friendly solution for small firms or solo attorneys looking for essential billing and invoicing features like expense tracking and invoices. For more advanced features, the Premium plan starts at $15 per month.

6. PointOne

PointOne is an AI-driven platform that automates timekeeping and billing for law firms. Its goal is to optimize efficiency and profitability by reducing administrative burdens and ensuring accurate time capture.

Source: Pointone.com

Key Features

Automated time tracking: PointOne passively records all work activities, capturing billable time without manual input, which helps reduce administrative tasks.
AI-powered pre-bill review: The platform uses artificial intelligence to review pre-bills, suggesting edits to improve bill quality and compliance with client guidelines.
Integration: PointOne integrates with existing billing software and practice management systems.
Real-time collaboration: The platform offers features that allow team members to collaborate on billing matters for better alignment and transparency within the firm.

Pros

Automates time capture, ensuring all billable activities are recorded.
AI-driven reviews help produce precise and compliant bills, reducing errors and disputes.
Frees up time by automating timekeeping and billing processes, boosting productivity.

Cons

Implementing new AI-driven tools may require an adjustment period for staff.
Integration compatibility may vary with some existing firm software.

Pricing

PointOne currently does not have its pricing publicly listed.

7. Ajax

Ajax is AI-powered timekeeping software designed to automate time tracking for legal professionals. It runs quietly in the background and captures all work activities. The platform generates accurate timesheets with detailed narratives, which helps lawyers focus more on their practice and less on administrative tasks.

Source: Joinajax.com

Key Features

Automated time tracking: Ajax passively records all work activities, including brief tasks that are often overlooked.
Detailed timesheet generation: The software creates precise timesheets with narratives, matching recorded activities to the relevant client matters, which improves billing accuracy.
Integration: Ajax integrates with popular practice management and billing systems to organize workflows and reduce the need for multiple platforms.
User-friendly interface: Designed with simplicity in mind, Ajax offers an intuitive user experience, making it easy for legal professionals to adopt and utilize effectively.

Pros

Tracks every task accurately, even small ones often overlooked.
Generates detailed, client-friendly timesheets.
Saves time by automating repetitive timekeeping tasks.

Cons

Integration options are limited with certain third-party tools.
Requires a learning period to understand all features fully.

Pricing

Ajax currently doesn’t offer public pricing information.

Automate Parts of Your Discovery Process With Briefpoint

Legal billing software handles invoicing and payments, but Briefpoint goes beyond that by tackling one of the most time-intensive tasks for law firms: discovery responses.

Managing discovery work often requires answering dozens of questions for every case across multiple discovery sets. It’s a tedious process that eats into your team’s valuable time and resources.

Briefpoint automates much of this work, simplifying the process and reducing the manual effort involved. With fewer hours spent on repetitive tasks, your team can focus on higher-value activities that truly impact your clients and cases.

Want to see how it works? Schedule a demo here and discover how Briefpoint can help your firm work smarter.

Take Care of Your Law Firm Finances With Briefpoint

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FAQs About Legal Billing Software

How much does legal billing software cost?

The cost of legal billing software varies depending on the features and size of your firm. Prices typically start around $15 to $40 per user per month for basic plans, with more advanced options costing more.

What is legal billing software?

Dedicated legal billing software is a specialized tool designed to help law firms track billable hours, create invoices, accept online payments, and manage trust accounts. It’s tailored to meet the unique needs of legal professionals, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

What software do most law firms use?

Popular options for law firms include Clio, Timesolv, Lawpay, Smokeball, and FreshBooks. These tools are widely used because they offer features like time tracking, invoicing, and trust accounting, all essential for running a law practice smoothly.

What is considered legal billing?

Legal billing refers to the process of tracking billable hours, expenses, and payments for legal services provided to clients. It includes generating invoices, managing trust accounts, and ensuring accurate payment collection for the work performed.

How can legal professionals manage invoicing more efficiently?

Legal professionals can manage invoicing more efficiently by using legal billing software. These tools automate time tracking, invoice creation, and payment reminders, ensuring that invoices are accurate and sent on time. Features like customizable templates and detailed reporting also make it easier to handle client billing with less effort.