5 In-House Legal Software Every Law Firm Should Use

Does your law firm need a better way to handle legal matters? If you’re constantly bogged down by bottlenecks, it might be time to implement some in-house legal solutions.

In this article, we’ll explore the best types of in-house legal software that can help get your organization to where it needs to be.

Types of Software In-House Legal Teams Need

An efficient in-house legal team is one that takes advantage of technology. Below are some of the best legal tech tools that make way for smoother, faster, and more cost-effective legal operations.

1. Document Generation Tools

Creating legal documents is a staple task for any legal team, but it often consumes too much time and resources when done manually.

Document generation tools automate this process and allow faster creation of legal documents from pre-set templates.

This speeds up the document creation process and significantly reduces the possibility of human error, which helps uphold consistency across all documents.

Such tools can produce everything from routine correspondence to complex legal agreements, all while ensuring compliance with the latest legal standards.

Top Pick: Briefpoint

Briefpoint.ai uses generative artificial intelligence to help legal teams draft discovery response and request documents in minutes.

This platform lets you upload your discovery document, insert objections or responses, and then finish up the document in Word. Briefpoint will take care of everything in between.

Additionally, Briefpoint’s Bridge feature makes client communication easier by converting legal terms into simple language, allowing clients to respond directly.

Their responses are automatically added to your document, cutting down on the typical email exchanges.

The process is easy, even for people with limited technical skills, and it frees up attorneys to focus on other valuable tasks like consulting with outside counsel or preparing litigation strategies.

Plus, the time saved often translates to more money saved as well.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

2. Contract Management Software

Contract management software provides a comprehensive solution for handling every aspect of the contract lifecycle, from initial drafting and negotiation to approval, execution, and contract renewals.

This type of software often includes features for automatic reminders of key dates and milestones, version control to track changes over time and secure storage for easy retrieval.

In essence, legal departments can avoid expensive oversights and improve their overall efficiency by letting software manage contracts for them.

Top Pick: Ironclad

Ironclad is a must-have for any legal department that needs to handle everything contract-related. It smooths out the whole process, from start to finish, with some smart automation tricks up its sleeve.

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Plus, it has an analytics feature that lets you dive into your contract data and figure out what’s working and what’s not.

Basically, it makes managing contracts a whole lot easier and helps you make smarter decisions with all the insights it provides.

3. Document Management Systems

Legal operations always go hand in hand with a ton of paperwork, which is why any in-house counsel can benefit from a good document management tool.

Document management systems allow for quick retrieval, controlled access, and efficient collaboration on documents and make sure that everything is both safe and easily accessible.

Legal leaders can also control who sees what, track changes, and even collaborate on documents without creating a dozen versions.

Top Pick: NetDocuments

NetDocuments is a cloud-based document management system designed specifically for legal teams. It offers secure storage, easy access from anywhere, and robust tools for collaboration and document handling.

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It’s known for top-notch security features and compliance with international standards, which makes it a safe bet for managing sensitive legal matters.

4. Matter Management Software

Matter management software is a one-stop shop for legal teams to keep their cases and projects in line.

It pulls together all the bits and pieces related to a case—documents, emails, deadlines, and more—into one spot that’s easily accessible.

It makes task management and legal workflows much easier by automating administrative tasks, keeping an eye on those critical deadlines, and making sure internal and external stakeholders are in the loop.

As a result of the extra operational efficiency, in-house legal teams have more time to work on more complicated legal work.

Top Pick: Clio

Clio is a comprehensive, cloud-based legal practice management platform that’s really made a name for itself in the legal world for being able to streamline processes for law firms of all sizes.

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With Clio, you can manage cases, track time, bill clients, and organize all your legal documents in one place.

It also has excellent features for legal intake, client communication, and scheduling, which makes it easier to keep everyone informed and on track.

Plus, Clio allows you to analyze key performance indicators with its its analytics and reporting tools. This helps firms make data-driven decisions, track productivity, and identify areas for improvement across their legal operations.

5. Legal Billing Tools

Efficient and accurate billing is a must if a law firm wants to remain profitable.

Legal billing tools are specialized software solutions designed to simplify the billing and invoicing process for law firms and legal departments.

These tools help make sure you accurately track billable hours, manage client accounts, and produce detailed invoices without issue.

One of the key features of legal billing software is time tracking. Whether you’re working on a case, consulting with a client, or doing research, these tools make it easy to record every billable minute.

Also, they often come with functionalities to handle expense tracking and generate reports that can help guide business decisions.

Top Pick: QuickBooks

Lawyers can leverage QuickBooks to track billable hours directly within the software, maintain accurate invoicing, and simplify the process of billing clients.

The platform also allows for the management of client trust accounts, a critical aspect of legal financial management.

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Additionally, QuickBooks helps law firms with general accounting tasks, such as tracking expenses, managing payroll, and producing financial reports.

These features provide a clear overview of a firm’s financial health, which often leads to data-driven decisions.

Upgrade Your Productivity With the Right In-House Legal Software

Using the right in-house legal software can truly transform the way your firm operates.

From automating document creation to managing contracts and keeping everything organized, these tools make legal work smoother and more efficient.

Ready to boost your productivity? Try Briefpoint! With faster document drafting and simplified client communication, you’ll save time and reduce unnecessary back-and-forth.

Schedule your demo today and see how Briefpoint can make a difference for your team.

Supplement Your In-House Legal Team With Briefpoint

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 In-House Legal Software

Can small legal teams benefit from in-house legal software?

Yes. Size doesn’t matter when it comes to efficiency. These tools are scalable and can significantly reduce the workload, regardless of the team’s size.

Is it secure to store sensitive legal documents in these systems?

Yes, with a caveat. Ensure that the software you choose complies with industry-standard security measures and data protection laws. Security is a top priority for reputable software providers.

Can in-house legal software integrate with other tools we use?

Most modern legal software solutions are designed with integration in mind. They often support APIs and have built-in integrations with popular office tools and platforms.

What other in-house legal software do law firms need?

In addition to the tools already mentioned, case management software is a must for law firms. It allows teams to organize case details, manage deadlines, and streamline collaboration so that all relevant information is easily accessible (without having to juggle multiple systems). Finally, legal research software can significantly cut down the time spent on case law and regulation searches, providing faster access to relevant legal information.

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6 Best Legal Software for Small Law Firms

Running a small law firm comes with its own set of challenges. You’re juggling multiple cases, tracking deadlines, handling billing, and keeping clients updated—all while trying to stay organized.

The paperwork piles up fast, and time-consuming tasks like drafting discovery documents or managing client communications can easily take up your entire day.

It’s hard to stay on top of everything without the right tools. This is why legal software designed for small firms can make a real difference.

From case management to document automation, the right tech can help you save time, reduce stress, and keep everything in order.

So, let’s talk about some of the best tools available to help optimize your workflows.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Tech for a Small Firm

When selecting the right legal software for your small law firm, it’s important to make sure it fits your firm’s unique needs and helps simplify your daily tasks.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Budget

You’ve got to think about the cost. Smaller firms often need to watch their expenses, so it’s essential to pick software that doesn’t break the bank.

However, don’t go for the cheapest option just to save money. You’ll want to strike a balance between affordability and getting the features you need.

Ease of Use

Complicated software isn’t going to help anyone. Look for tools that are easy to use and don’t require much training.

This is especially important if your team isn’t very tech-savvy. You’ll want software that’s straightforward and lets you hit the ground running.

Cloud-based vs. On-premise

Cloud-based software is becoming the go-to option for small firms because it offers flexibility.

You can access your data from anywhere, which is perfect for lawyers who work remotely or are always on the go.

On the other hand, on-premise software is installed locally on your firm’s computers, which can offer more control over your data but is less flexible.

Security

Law firms handle sensitive client information, so security is a must. Make sure the software you choose has robust security features, like encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular backups.

Your customers rely on you to protect their data, and it’s important to ensure the software you use contributes to that security.

Customer Support

Things will go wrong at some point, and when they do, you’ll need solid customer support.

Pick software that offers accessible and helpful support, whether it’s through phone, email, or live chat. Having reliable support can save you a lot of headaches.

Integrations

Your legal software shouldn’t exist in a vacuum. Look for tools that integrate with other software you’re already using, like email, calendars, or billing systems.

This will help keep your processes smooth and save you from double-entry work.

Scalability

As your firm grows, your software should grow with you. Make sure the tool you choose can handle more cases, clients, and users if needed.

This will save you from needing to switch to a new system down the road.

6 Best Legal Software for Small Law Firms

Small law firms need software that helps them handle multiple tasks efficiently without overwhelming their budget or staff.

Here’s a look at some of the best tech tools that can serve smaller firms well:

1. Briefpoint: Discovery Document Automation

Briefpoint is an AI-powered tool that takes the hassle out of drafting discovery documents.

Whether you’re dealing with requests for production, requests for admission, or interrogatories, Briefpoint speeds up the whole process to let you focus on the more important parts of the discovery process.

Here’s how it works: When you upload a discovery request, Briefpoint’s AI goes to work, pulling out all the basic info it can from the document.

In just a few minutes, you’ll have a draft filled out with most of the routine details. From there, you can tweak it by adding objections or responses using Briefpoint’s built-in menu and then finish it up in Word.

But it gets better. Briefpoint’s Bridge feature makes working with clients a breeze. You can send them the specific interrogatories they need to answer, translated into plain English.

They just fill out their responses online, and Bridge automatically integrates their answers into your document—no more endless back-and-forth emails.

Key features:

AI-powered automation: Briefpoint takes care of the routine details in your discovery documents, so you don’t have to.
Bridge for client responses: This feature translates legal jargon into simple language to make it easy for clients to respond. Their answers are automatically added to your documents.
Built-in objections and responses: Customize your documents with a click by adding responses or objections from the built-in menu.

Pros:

Automates the time-consuming parts of drafting discovery documents.
Bridge makes it easy for clients to respond without getting lost in legal jargon.
Client responses go directly into your document, cutting down on unnecessary communication.
Affordable for small law firms; per-document pricing available.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

2. Clio: Legal Practice Management Software

Clio is one of the most popular and comprehensive law practice management software on the market.

It’s designed to help law firms of all sizes, including small firms, handle every aspect of their daily operations.

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What sets Clio apart is its flexibility. It’s cloud-based, meaning you can access it anywhere, and it integrates with a ton of other tools you might already use, like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and QuickBooks.

Clio makes it simple for small law firms to manage their operations without juggling multiple software systems.

Key Features:

Case management: Keep all your case information, deadlines, and notes organized in one place.
Time tracking and billing: Track billable hours easily and create invoices in just a few clicks.
Client portal: Communicate securely with clients through Clio’s portal, where you can share documents and messages.
Integrations: Works with popular tools like Google Calendar, Microsoft Office, and more, to streamline your workflow.
Mobile app: Access your cases, time tracking, and billing on the go with Clio’s mobile app.

Pros:

Handles case management, billing, and client communication all in one platform.
Access your cases and data from anywhere, which makes it perfect for legal professionals who work remotely or travel often.
Clio is known for offering responsive and helpful customer service, especially for small law firms that might not have in-house IT support.
The interface is intuitive, and you won’t need extensive training to get started.

Cons:

While Clio offers a lot of value, it can get pricey as you add more features or users, which could be a concern for small firms with limited budgets.
The basics are easy to pick up, but some of the more advanced features may take time to fully understand.

3. MyCase: Case Management Software

MyCase is a good when it comes to managing cases efficiently, especially for small law firms.

If you’re looking for a tool that focuses primarily on keeping all your case details organized without the extra bells and whistles of a full legal practice management system, this is the one.

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It’s designed to streamline your casework, making it easy to track deadlines, manage documents, and keep case notes all in one spot.

MyCase also has great communication features so you can keep your clients updated on their cases without ever leaving the platform.

Key features:

Case tracking: You can easily manage all your case details in one dashboard.
Document management: Upload, store, and organize case documents so that they’re easily accessible whenever you need them.
Task management: Create tasks, assign them to members, and track their progress.
Client communication: MyCase’s built-in client portal makes it simple to send case updates, share documents, and communicate securely with clients, all in one place.

Pros:

MyCase’s strength lies in how it handles case-related tasks. It’s not cluttered with features you don’t need.
With everything related to your cases stored in one platform, it’s easy to track progress and access documents quickly.
You can securely communicate with clients via the client portal, share documents, and update them on their cases without relying on external tools.
It’s simple to navigate, so you won’t waste time trying to figure out how things work.

Cons:

MyCase is laser-focused on case management, so it may not be the best fit if you need advanced tools for other aspects of practice management.

4. CosmoLex: Billing and Accounting Software

CosmoLex is a go-to solution for small law firms that need a reliable way to manage both billing and accounting under one roof.

It’s specifically designed for law firms, which means it understands the unique requirements of legal accounting, like trust accounting and handling retainers.

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This tool combines legal billing, time tracking, and full-fledged accounting into one platform, saving you the trouble of syncing multiple systems.

For small law firms, where keeping track of finances is critical, CosmoLex simplifies the process while ensuring compliance with legal industry standards.

Key features:

Legal billing and invoicing: Track billable hours, generate invoices and send them directly to clients from within the platform. It also lets you set up online payments.
Trust accounting: CosmoLex includes built-in trust accounting features to help you stay compliant with regulations and avoid common accounting pitfalls.
Time tracking: Whether you’re in the office or on the go, you can easily track billable hours and associate them with specific cases.
Full legal accounting: Beyond billing, CosmoLex handles general ledger accounting, including expenses, payroll, and taxes—all tailored to law firm needs.

Pros:

Ensures compliance with legal trust accounting rules, which makes it easier to manage client funds.
The interface is intuitive, so you don’t need to be a financial expert to handle your firm’s accounting.
Access your firm’s financial data from anywhere, making it easy to stay on top of things even when you’re away from the office.

Cons:

If you’re looking for a broader practice management solution, you’ll need to pair it with another tool, as CosmoLex specializes in finance.
If you’re not familiar with accounting, it might take some time to get comfortable with the deeper financial features.

5. NetDocuments: Document Management Software

NetDocuments is a solid solution for law firms looking to manage their documents securely and efficiently.

For small law firms, keeping track of all the paperwork can be a hassle, but NetDocuments simplifies the process by giving you a cloud-based system where everything is stored, organized, and easily accessible.

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It’s designed specifically for legal professionals, so it knows how important security and compliance are.

With features like advanced search and version control, you can quickly find what you need and never worry about losing track of important legal documents.

Key features:

Cloud-based storage: You can access your documents anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re in the office, at home, or on the go, everything’s stored securely in the cloud.
Powerful search tools: Finding a document is a breeze. You can search by keyword, metadata, or even the content of the document itself—no more endless scrolling through folders.
Version control: NetDocuments lets you keep track of every version of a document so you can always go back to an earlier one if needed.

Pros:

Your files are stored securely, and you can access them from anywhere, which is great for remote work or multiple office locations.
Everything is organized in one place, making it easy to manage and find documents when you need them.
You’ll never lose track of document changes with the version control feature, which is key when multiple people are working on the same file.

Cons:

It’s a robust solution, so it may be pricier than simpler document management tools.
While great at what it does, it’s focused purely on documents, so you’ll need additional software for other administrative tasks.

6. CloudLex: Matter Management Software

CloudLex is designed specifically for small and mid-sized law firms that need an efficient way to manage their legal matters from start to finish.

It’s more than just a case tracking tool—it’s a full matter management system that keeps your entire firm organized.

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One of the standout features of CloudLex is its collaborative nature. It’s built to help your team work together seamlessly, keeping everyone on the same page.

Plus, since it’s cloud-based, you can access your matters from anywhere, whether you’re in the office or working remotely.

Key features:

Matter tracking: Keep track of all case-related information, including deadlines, tasks, and client details, in one organized platform.
Collaboration tools: Easily share documents, tasks, and updates with your team, ensuring that everyone stays informed and aligned on case progress.
Client communication: CloudLex includes a secure client portal, so you can communicate with clients, share documents, and provide updates without the need for endless back-and-forth emails.
Task management: Assign tasks, set deadlines, and track their progress to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Cloud-based: Access your matters from anywhere, whether you’re in the office, working from home, or on the go.

Pros:

CloudLex’s team-focused tools make it easy for everyone in your firm to work together and stay on top of case developments.
Unlike some practice management tools that are more general, CloudLex is laser-focused on managing legal matters, making it a perfect fit for small firms.
Clients can access updates, documents, and communications on the client portal securely, which cuts down on email overload.

Cons:

While CloudLex excels at managing matters, it doesn’t cover billing or accounting, so you’ll need to pair it with other tools for those functions.
Some users may find it takes a little time to get used to all of CloudLex’s features, especially if you’re new to legal software.

Build Your Tech Stack With the Right Law Firm Software

Finding the right legal software can really transform how your small law firm operates.

Whether you’re trying to stay on top of case management, billing, or organizing all those important documents, having the right tools can make a huge difference.

Tools like MyCase and NetDocuments help streamline everyday tasks, but if you’re dealing with discovery documents often, Briefpoint is the perfect way to save both time and effort.

Why not give it a try? With Briefpoint, you can cut down the hours spent on drafting discovery documents and get back to focusing on your clients.

It’s fast, and tailored for small law firms like yours, and already trusted by over 500 law firms.

Ready to see how much time you can save? Schedule a demo with Briefpoint today and discover how much smoother your workday can be!

Invest in Your Productivity 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 Legal Software for Small Firms

What’s the best small law firm software?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but tools like Clio for practice management and Briefpoint for automating discovery documents are top picks for small firms.

Is Briefpoint easy to use?

Yes! Briefpoint is designed to be user-friendly, so you can quickly draft discovery documents without much effort.

Can I use multiple legal software tools together?

Absolutely. Many tools, like Clio and MyCase, integrate with others, so you can use them together for a more streamlined workflow.

5 Must-Have Litigation Software Tools for Lawyers

Handling legal cases can quickly become overwhelming with all the deadlines, documents, and research involved.

Luckily, litigation software offers tools to help law firms stay organized, automate routine tasks, and make the legal process more manageable.

Let’s explore the different types of litigation software that can simplify your workload.

What is Litigation Software?

In a nutshell, litigation software helps law firms manage the many moving parts involved in lawsuits and litigation cases.

It covers everything from case management to document storage, legal research, and even automating some of the more tedious tasks.

Whether you’re trying to keep track of court dates, store important files, or search through old case records, litigation software is designed to help.

5 Types of Litigation Software You Need

There are various types of litigation software, each serving a specific need in the legal process. So, let’s break them down one by one to give you a better idea of what’s out there.

1. Litigation Management Software

Litigation management software helps you track your cases, deadlines, court appearances, and key litigation events all in one place.

Instead of relying on spreadsheets or sticky notes, you can have everything organized and easy to access.

Key features:

Case tracking
Calendar reminders for court dates
Document organization by case
Time tracking and billing

2. Document Management Software

Every lawyer knows that paperwork is a big part of the job. Keeping track of every document, filing it correctly, and making sure you can find it later is no easy task.

Document management software stores all your legal documents securely in one place, which makes it easy to search, retrieve, and share with colleagues or clients.

Key features:

Secure file storage
Searchable document libraries
Version control (so you don’t lose important changes)
Sharing and collaboration tools

3. Discovery Document Automation Software

Drafting discovery documents can be a tedious and time-consuming task, but discovery document automation software simplifies the process.

It helps generate standardized discovery requests, responses, and other court documents to save valuable time and reduce errors in these critical documents.

Key features:

Automated drafting of discovery documents
Templates for discovery requests and responses
Legal form generation
Customization options for specific case needs

A great example is Briefpoint, an AI-driven tool designed to accelerate the drafting of discovery documents like requests for production, interrogatories, and requests for admission.

When you upload a document, Briefpoint’s AI quickly analyzes it and fills in most of the routine details for you, all while adhering to court rules for documents.

You can then add responses or objections from its pre-built options and finalize everything in Word.

Briefpoint’s Bridge feature also simplifies client communication by turning legal jargon into plain language, letting clients respond directly.

Plus, their answers are automatically added to your document to save you from the usual back-and-forth emails.

4. Legal Research Software

Legal research can be one of the more tedious parts of preparing for a case. You have to dig through old court cases, laws, and statutes to find the right information to support your argument.

Legal research software, which often includes a feature called verdict search, makes this process easier by pulling up relevant case law and legal precedents for you.

This way, you can gain valuable insights without spending hours searching for information from multiple sources.

Key features:

Searchable databases of case law
Verdict search for past rulings
Statute and regulation libraries
Real-time updates on changes in the law

5. Legal Practice Management Software

Though sometimes similar to litigation management software, legal practice management software takes things a step further by automating routine tasks like handling billing, client communications, and overall law firm operations.

It’s an all-in-one solution that helps you keep your entire practice running smoothly.

Key features:

Client management tools
Billing and invoicing
Time tracking
Document and case management integration

Simplify Your Legal Workflow with Litigation Software

Litigation software can take a lot of the hassle out of managing cases, documents and even the time-consuming discovery process.

With the right tools, you’ll stay organized, work faster, and focus more on winning your cases.

Want to see just how much time you could save?

Try Briefpoint for yourself! Schedule a demo today and find out how it can make your discovery process faster and easier, all while cutting costs.

Make the Discovery Process More Cost-Effective 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 Litigation Software

What is litigation software?

Litigation software is a set of digital tools that helps law firms manage and organize various aspects of legal cases. It includes features for tracking case details, storing documents, automating discovery, and handling court-related administrative tasks, all designed to improve efficiency and reduce manual work.

What type of legal software do firms use?

Law firms use a variety of software to simplify their operations, including litigation management, document management, discovery automation, legal research, and practice management software. These tools help with case tracking, document storage, filing deadlines, research, billing, and client communication.

What software is used for case management?

For case management, legal professionals often use litigation management software or practice management platforms. These tools help organize case details, track court dates, manage client information, and store legal documents all in one place, simplifying the entire legal process for civil litigation.

What Software Do Litigation Lawyers Use?

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.

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.

Types of Software Designed for Legal Professionals

In the legal profession, having the right tools at your disposal isn’t just helpful—it’s crucial. Lawyers can now deploy an arsenal of software solutions to simplify their daily grind.

Whether it’s case management, billing, or client communication, the right tool is just a click away.

Let’s break down the main types of software that are making the lives of lawyers a lot easier.

Legal Practice Management Software

Lawyers no longer have to juggle multiple systems to run their practice.

With law practice management software, they can efficiently manage tasks, schedule appointments, and handle accounting and document management all in one place.

For one, it keeps all client information, case details, documents, and deadlines organized and easy to access. This helps lawyers avoid wasting time looking for files or dealing with scattered data.

Additionally, practice management software comes with scheduling tools. By consolidating all your appointments, meetings, and court dates in one spot, it sends reminders that help you stay prepared and on schedule.

Financial tasks are also made simpler with legal practice management tools. It allows you to efficiently manage your project’s financials by providing an easy way to log hours and create professional-looking invoices.

Lawyers can log their hours directly into the system and then quickly generate accurate invoices to send to clients.

Legal Document Generation Software

Legal document generation software simplifies the whole process of creating legal documents, including discovery documents.

For example, Briefpoint.ai uses data extracted from court documents and a pre-trained AI to generate discovery document drafts that are pretty much complete.

Instead of starting each document from scratch, lawyers can upload their discovery requests, let the AI extract information and fill out the routine sections, and then finish up with their own objections or responses.

Time Tracking and Billing Tools

For law firms, time is literally money. That’s why they need to get time tracking and billing right.

With the right tools, firms can focus on what matters most: providing excellent service to clients while confidently collecting every dollar earned.

Lawyers can now track their time as they go, eliminating the need for tedious recaps at the end of the day. This could be on a desktop at the office or via an app if they’re out and about. The best part? It eliminates the guesswork and potential errors of trying to recall hours and days after the work’s done.

They’re capable of so much more than just logging hours like payroll, benefits, and performance tracking too.

Expenses tied to cases can add up quickly, but they provide a way to keep them in check. This also makes it easy to total them up and add them to client invoices.

When it’s time to bill clients, these tools can generate detailed invoices with just a few clicks.

They pull in all the logged hours and expenses, lay everything out clearly, and make sure that the invoice looks professional, which can help speed up the payment process.

Legal Research Tools

A comprehensive legal research platform provides a vast library of legal resources right at your fingertips. These platforms gather the essential resources⎯, case law, legal journals, you name it⎯, and make them effortlessly searchable, saving you time and headache.

Instead of digging through physical law books or bouncing between different websites, lawyers can use one comprehensive platform to find everything they need.

Another big plus is the depth of resources available. Whether you’re looking for a rare case precedent or the newest articles on a legal topic, these platforms have it all.

Client Relationship Management Software

Client Relationship Management (CRM) software helps simplify client interactions and keeps all client-related information in one neat package.

At your fingertips, you’ll find a centralized platform housing a wealth of info, including client contact info, case backgrounds, conversation records, and meeting recaps, all in one convenient spot.

CRM software shines in improving communication.

It automates follow-ups and reminders and can even handle marketing emails based on past client interactions, which helps make sure that the firm maintains a steady and professional connection with clients.

Incoming queries can overwhelm even the most organized teams. But with this system, you can gather calls, emails, and web form submissions into one neat pipeline, guaranteeing every client question gets a response.

The Benefits of Legal Software Solutions

Managing a law firm is like juggling many tasks at once. But what if you could offload some of that weight?

Legal software can help take care of administrative tasks and let attorneys focus on what they do best: serving their clients. Here are some of the key advantages:

Increased Efficiency

Legal software really kicks efficiency up a notch. By shouldering the burden of paperwork, case management, and billing, lawyers are left with more time and energy to really dig into the legal nitty-gritty.

Paperwork used to be a necessary evil, but now it’s finally taken a backseat. With more time on their hands, firms can seamlessly scale up their operations and keep their competitive edge.

Improved Accuracy

When it comes to the law, accuracy is non-negotiable. That’s where legal software comes in—it cuts down on human errors through automated calculations and standardized templates for documents.

Savvy businesses focus on accuracy to prevent mistakes and avoid dealing with the consequences. Errors can be costly, and having reliable information is the best way to prevent them.

Better Organization

Legal software keeps everything in one place and makes sure all case-related info is easy to access and up to date.

Whether it’s quickly pulling up documents or checking a client’s history, everything is well-organized and easily available, so you don’t miss anything important.

Enhanced Client Service

With tools like CRM systems and practice management software, staying connected with clients is smoother than ever.

With automated follow-ups and schedule updates, your clients will never feel left in the dark. This approach has a profound impact on their satisfaction levels, leading to greater loyalty and referrals.

Cost Savings

Investing in legal software might seem like a large upfront investment, but it can save a lot of money over time.

It reduces the need for administrative staff by making operations more efficient, which lowers costs and increases profits.

What 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 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. Clio: Practice Management

Source: Clio

What if you could manage most,⎯if not all⎯, aspects of your practice using only one platform?

Clio is an all-in-one case management software designed to help law firms stay organized and efficient.

It’s packed with features that simplify the daily operations of legal practice, from managing cases and clients to handling billing and scheduling.

Best Features:

All-in-one solution: Clio covers everything from case management and document storage to billing and invoicing. It centralizes all your important information and tasks in one place, so it’s easy to stay organized.
Cloud-based: Accessible from anywhere, Clio allows you to manage your practice whether you’re in the office, at home, or on the go. This flexibility is great for remote legal work and accessing files from multiple locations.
Client portal: Clio offers a secure client portal where clients can access their documents, communicate with you, and stay updated on their case status.
Time tracking and billing: Track billable hours effortlessly and generate detailed invoices with just a few clicks. Clio’s billing features help make sure you get paid accurately and on time.

Limitations:

Cost: Clio can be a significant investment, especially for smaller firms. The pricing may be a bit steep for solo practitioners or small practices with limited budgets.
Feature overload: For smaller firms or solo practitioners, Clio’s extensive features might feel overwhelming. It has a lot of capabilities, which might be more than what a small practice needs.
Learning curve: While Clio is user-friendly, getting the hang of all its features and functionalities can take some time.

3. FastCase: Legal Research

Source: FastCase

One of the most tedious parts of litigation is due diligence or, more specifically, legal research.

Imagine having a hyper-powered legal research partner that cranks out results in seconds. That’s what FastCase delivers⎯fast, reliable access to a massive cache of legal knowledge.

Picture this: you’re wading through stacks of legal texts, searching for that one key precedent. This research process serves as your guide, leading you straight to the relevant case law, statutes, and legal building blocks you need.

Best Features:

Comprehensive database: FastCase offers access to a wide array of legal documents, including case law, statutes, regulations, court rules, and legal journals.
Advanced search functionality: The platform includes robust search tools that help you find relevant legal information quickly. You can use keywords, citations, or natural language to conduct your searches, making it easy to locate the documents you need.
Visualization tools: FastCase includes unique visualization features, which help you better understand the relationships between cases and the development of legal doctrines.

Limitations:

Subscription costs: While FastCase offers a range of pricing plans, accessing the full suite of features can be expensive.
Limited annotations: FastCase might not have as extensive annotations and editorial content as some other legal research platforms. This could require users to supplement their research with additional sources for deeper insights.

4. DocuSign: Signatures

Source: DocuSign

DocuSign is a popular electronic signature platform that allows lawyers to get documents signed quickly and securely.

Modern law firms can’t imagine life without this tool, which effortlessly streamlines document signing and abolishes the need for a paperwork pileup.

Best Features:

Legally binding: DocuSign ensures that electronic signatures meet legal standards and are legally binding.
Ease of use: The platform is user-friendly, making it easy for both lawyers and clients to sign documents electronically. With just a few clicks, documents can be signed and returned, saving time and reducing hassle.
Secure: DocuSign uses advanced security measures, including encryption and secure storage, to protect sensitive information.

Limitations:

Internet dependency: DocuSign requires a stable internet connection to function. This can be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity or during internet outages.
Cost: The pricing for DocuSign can be a consideration, especially for smaller firms or solo practitioners. The cost may add up if the platform is used frequently.

5. LeanLaw: Accounting

Source: LeanLaw

For law firms, managing finances can be a minefield, but LeanLaw is here to guide them through it, accuracy being its top priority.

Legal accounting just got a whole lot easier. This platform simplifies the process with features that cater specifically to the demands of legal professionals.

Best Features:

Legal-specific features: LeanLaw includes features designed specifically for law firms, such as trust accounting, which is crucial for managing client funds separately from the firm’s operational funds.
Integration with QuickBooks: LeanLaw integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks so that financial data is synced between the two systems, reducing manual data entry and the potential for errors.
Time and expense tracking: The software allows for easy tracking of billable hours and expenses. Lawyers can log their time and associated costs directly into LeanLaw, which then integrates this data into invoices.

Limitations:

Cost: For smaller firms or solo practitioners, the cost of LeanLaw might be a consideration. While it offers valuable features, the pricing could be a barrier for those with limited budgets.
Dependence on QuickBooks: LeanLaw is most effective when used in conjunction with QuickBooks. Firms that don’t use QuickBooks might find it less useful or may need to invest in additional software.

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.ai, is a 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

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

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Litigation Tech Tools

What is the most important software for litigation lawyers?

It depends on the lawyer’s needs, but practice management software is often considered essential as it helps with task management, scheduling, and client communications.

How can legal software improve client communication?

Staying on top of client communications can be a Herculean task, but legal software and similar CRM solutions simplify the process by organizing interactions, automating updates, and streamlining follow-ups so you can maintain quality legal services.

Are legal software solutions secure?

Yes, most legal software solutions are designed with robust security features to protect sensitive client information. They often include encryption, secure cloud storage, and compliance with legal industry standards to ensure data privacy and security.

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.

How to Automate Legal Discovery In 2024 (Using AI)

Estimates suggest that lawyers only bill 2.3 hours during an 8-hour workday. What happens to the rest of your time?

Unfortunately, much of it goes on paperwork, such as legal discovery. Legal professionals spend vast tracts of their office hours performing non-billable tasks, reducing their earning power and risking burnout.

That’s why there is now significant interest in automating legal discovery processes.

Law firms and individual attorneys want to save time and money by getting sophisticated software to streamline this workflow.

Such technology now exists. For example, Briefpoint’s discovery document drafting software can save an estimated 87% of the time needed in creating a response. Furthermore, these new tools do not require sophisticated technical skills.

In this article, we’ll explore how to automate legal discovery responses in your law firm.

Once you learn how to do this, you can save time and money and avoid spending hours of your day on dull, non-billable tasks.

How to Automate Legal Discovery Responses

Automating legal discovery responses involves choosing appropriate software from the many options available on the market. The solution you select will determine how much you can reduce labor and increase your billable hours.

The following is a step-by-step guide to how the most advanced AI-powered software automates legal discovery responses.

These products balance the need to speed up work against the requirement for legal accuracy and compliance.

1. Analyze The Discovery Request

Discovery response automation tools first analyze the discovery request from the opposing party. Sophisticated AI systems analyze text, extracting relevant pieces of information to create a response shell.

For example, Briefpoint uses machine learning to transform requests for information from the opposing counsel into digestible lists.

This feature lets you see their demands in a pithy, easy-to-interpret format, speeding up response. (Briefpoint can interpret requests in formats accepted in all fifty states).

2. Respond

AI tools next use AI to help you respond faster to legal discovery requests. Tools use a variety of templates and libraries to insert language that is legally permissible and in your client’s best interest.

For example, Briefpoint provides two ways to automate this process. The first is to click relevant responses from the menu on the left-hand side.

Selecting an objection will cause that response to appear in the text in reply to the request.

However, you can also get the software to suggest objections for you (and why they apply to the request).

Using this method will highlight anything the solution thinks is relevant, given the inputted text. Then, you can quickly review them, editing them where appropriate.

Finally, you can use these tools to add a substantive response. This automated piece of text provides additional context for your reply.

Briefpoint also has a built-in feature called Bridge, which automates the process of collecting client responses and integrating them into discovery documents.

Bridge lets you select interrogatories, translate them into easy-to-understand language, and send them to your client with just a few clicks. Once they respond, Bridge will plug their responses into your document.

3. Download And Review

Finally, you will need to download and review the response document. Solutions vary in their usability. Some require using their integrated word-processing software, while others force you to use PDFs.

By contrast, Briefpoint lets you download your document into Microsoft Word, which probably integrates better into your workflow than a separate review platform.

You can see the edited document at any production stage, allowing you to add or subtract from it whenever you want.

How to Automate Legal Discovery

AI tools can also automate the creation of legal discovery documents, such as requests for admission, requests for production, and interrogatories.

These facilities mean you can automate the initiation aspect of legal discovery work, not just the response.

1. Design Your Document

The first step is to draft your propounding discovery document. Solutions begin by collecting essential information to populate the request.

For example, Briefpoint asks for information about the case name, request type (request for admission, request for production, or interrogatory), and the responding party.

You can also link it to an existing case or client or a new one.

2. Add Requests

The next step is to add your requests. Automation software accelerates this process by including pre-built requests grouped by case type and theories of law.

For example, Briefpoint lets you select interrogatories related to “auto torts” with a click and add them to your request.

3. Document Review

The final step is to download and review your newly generated request document. Again, Briefpoint lets you edit it in Word, which is ready to attach to an email or print after the review process.

The Benefits Of Automating Legal Discovery

Automating legal discovery work isn’t just about saving time and money—though it certainly does that.

The real benefits go beyond efficiency, helping law firms improve accuracy, client relationships, and overall workflow.

Here’s a deeper look into how automating legal discovery can transform the way you manage cases.

Reducing Errors in Discovery Responses

One of the most significant advantages of using automation tools in legal discovery is the reduction in errors.

These tools can sift through large volumes of documents and data to quickly identify key themes and relevant information.

By doing so, they help make sure your responses are accurate and comprehensive, minimizing the risk of oversight.

Protecting Privileged Information

Handling large volumes of documents manually increases the risk of accidentally revealing privileged information.

Automation tools are designed to offer permissible retorts to help you carefully craft responses while protecting sensitive data.

These tools can highlight or hide privileged information, ensuring that you comply with legal requirements and maintain the confidentiality of involved parties.

Improving Client Relationships

Another often overlooked benefit of automating legal discovery is how it improves your relationship with clients.

With less time spent sifting through documents and performing repetitive tasks, you can dedicate more time to the parts of your job that matter most—working closely with your clients and building strong relationships.

Shifting Focus to Higher-Value Tasks

By automating the drudgery of document review and discovery, tools like Briefpoint allow you to shift your attention to more meaningful work.

Rather than getting bogged down in repetitive, manual tasks, you can focus on case strategy, negotiations, and court preparation.

Automating discovery gives you the opportunity to operate more efficiently, helping you focus on the parts of your job that bring you the most satisfaction and success.

Improving Efficiency and Workflow

Ultimately, automating legal discovery transforms the way your firm operates.

It creates more efficient workflows, reduces manual errors, and speeds up the document review process. This allows your firm to handle more cases or complex matters without overwhelming your team.

By using tools that automate the more mundane parts of legal discovery, you can improve the overall efficiency of your firm, allowing it to grow and serve clients more effectively.

Enjoy a Cost-Effective Discovery Process 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 Automating Legal Discovery

How do you automate legal work?

The degree to which you can automate legal work depends on the tools you use. Next-generation software, like Briefpoint, uses advanced AI to extract relevant information from discoveries and provides a template, legally permissible, and editable responses you can include.

Can AI write a legal brief?

AI-powered automation can write legal briefs. However, due to problems around hallucination (including false information), the industry doesn’t believe the current generation of large language models (LLMs) is ready for prime time. However, such tools can help generate content for legal teams to review.

What is e-discovery in law?

E-discovery is simply the electronic version of conventional discovery. It involves submitting digital evidence, requests for production, requests for admission, and interrogatories via digital means (over the Internet) instead of by hand or mail.

How do you automate the collection of Electronically Stored Information (ESI)?

Automating the collection of Electronically Stored Information (ESI) involves using electronic discovery technology to streamline the process of finding, preserving, and gathering digital data to share in state and federal courts. This is typically done by setting up systems that can automatically search through emails, cloud storage, and other digital platforms to find relevant information based on specific criteria like keywords or dates. These systems also make sure that the data is preserved in its original form to prevent any alterations and have tools for producing electronic documents.

Best Software for Lawyers: Your Tech Stack Guide for 2024

Imagine a world where your legal practice runs like a well-oiled machine—where hours of paperwork are reduced to mere minutes, case management is simplified with a few clicks, and legal research is instantly accessible.

Welcome to the revolution of legal tech. The writing’s on the wall: this groundbreaking tech is where the legal profession is headed.

With tools that automate documents, secure electronic signatures, and provide comprehensive practice management powered by AI, legal tech is here to elevate your practice. Ready to step into the future?

Let’s explore the best software for lawyers in 2024 and see how it can transform your practice.

What is Legal Technology?

Legal technology, or legal tech, refers to software and tools designed to make the lives of lawyers and legal professionals easier.

What if you could cut down hours of paperwork into mere minutes, manage cases with a few clicks, or have all your legal research at your fingertips? Legal tech makes it all possible.

From document automation and electronic signatures to comprehensive project management software and AI-powered research tools, legal tech helps simplify operations, optimize productivity, and improve client service.

9 Types of Legal Technology & Top Tools

Legal technology covers a wide range of tools designed to help lawyers manage their work more efficiently. Here are some key types of legal tech and the top tools in each category:

1. Document Automation Software

Creating legal documents manually can be a tedious and time-consuming process, often riddled with the potential for errors. This is where document generation software steps in to revamp the way lawyers handle paperwork.

Creating legal documents has never been easier–or faster–thanks to these automated tools that skip the hassle and grab the facts. A robust document generator usually comes packed with clever tools like versatile templates, automated text insertion, and the ability to fetch data from disparate sources, culminating in polished documents.

One standout in this field is Briefpoint.ai. Briefpoint.ai leverages advanced generative AI technology to help lawyers create accurate and professional discovery documents quickly.

All the user has to do is upload the discovery document, insert their own objections or responses, and then add the finishing touches on Word. The AI system handles everything in between, including filling in routine information.

Briefpoint.ai can help you draft Requests for Production, Requests for Admission, Interrogatories, and many more.

2. Legal Practice Management Software

Running a law firm involves juggling countless tasks, from managing cases and tracking time to billing clients and scheduling meetings.

Enter legal practice management software, the ultimate tool to keep everything organized and efficient in modern law firms. If you’re tired of the chaos and want a smoother workflow, you need to consider adding Clio to your tech stack.

This comprehensive law practice management software brings all your essential tasks under one roof, making your job a whole lot easier. Clio’s features include:

Case management
Time tracking
Billing and invoicing
Client communication
Document management
Scheduling and calendar
Reporting and analytics

3. Legal Research Tools

Powerful legal research demands more than just book smarts. It requires the right toolkit to back it up.

Legal research tools provide access to a vast array of legal information to help lawyers find relevant case law, statutes, and regulations efficiently. These tools are designed to save time, increase accuracy, and make sure that you are always working with the most current legal information.

One of the top legal research tools is Fastcase. Whether you need case law, statutes, regulations, court rules, or legal forms from anywhere in the country, Fastcase has got you covered, offering a vast and authoritative collection of legal resources that spans all 50 states and federal law.

Swiftly zone in on relevant results using cutting-edge search technology. With the integration of progressive visualization tools, case connections leap off the page and make your research much clearer.

Fastcase’s mobile app lets you access your research on the go, ensuring you have the information you need whether you’re in court or meeting with clients. Meanwhile, integrated citation analysis helps you verify the reliability of your sources, making sure your research is rock-solid.

4. Client Relationship Management (CRM) Software

Building and maintaining strong client relationships is a must for any law firm, which is why CRM software has long been a necessity.

Client relationships thrive when you can track every conversation, respond promptly, and address concerns head-on. And that’s exactly what CRM tools help you achieve.

Having all your client data and interactions in one convenient spot does wonders for your firm’s organization, and responsiveness and stronger relationships are the inevitable results.

When law firms need a reliable CRM tool, they often turn to Lawmatics. Its smarts lie in its ability to address the specific pain points of legal professionals. Features include:

Client intake
Marketing automation
CRM functionality
Customizable workflows
Document automation
Reporting and analytics

5. Matter Management Software

Matter management software is a game-changer for law firms and legal departments, transforming how they handle cases from start to finish.

Think of it as your digital command center, where every detail of your legal matters is organized and accessible in one place. No more scrambling to find documents or track down emails—everything you need is right at your fingertips.

A top tool in this category is LawVu, a powerful matter management platform designed to streamline your legal work. Here’s why LawVu stands out:

Centralized matter management
Task management
Collaboration tools
Document management
Client portal
Reporting and analytics
Integration capabilities

6. Electronic Signature Solutions

In the legal field, time is money, and the old-school method of getting physical signatures can slow everything down.

Electronic signature solutions are a game-changer for modern law practices. These tools let you get documents signed in minutes instead of days, which cuts out the hassle of printing, mailing, and waiting for them to come back.

Electronic signatures also mean no more lost documents and better compliance with legal standards. Plus, you can forget the hassle of in-person signings. With this tool, clients can sign from the comfort of their own space, and you’ll see a drastic reduction in paperwork headaches.

DocuSign is the go-to tool for electronic signatures, trusted by millions around the world. With DocuSign, you can easily upload your documents, mark where signatures are needed, and send them off for signing—all in a few clicks. Its intuitive interface makes the process a breeze.

7. Productivity and Scheduling Apps

Productivity and scheduling apps are important for any law firm because they help you juggle multiple cases, meet tight deadlines, and collaborate seamlessly with your team.

These apps streamline your workflow, reduce stress, and ensure that nothing slips through the cracks. With the right productivity app, you can focus more on your clients and less on administrative chaos, ultimately maximizing your practice’s efficiency and effectiveness.

Trello is a powerhouse productivity and scheduling app that turns chaos into order. It uses a visual system of boards, lists, and cards to help you manage projects effortlessly. Each board represents a project, and within these boards, you create cards for individual tasks.

You can set due dates, attach files, add checklists, and assign tasks to team members so that everyone knows what needs to be done.

Other special mentions include ClickUp, Notion, and Asana.

8. Accounting Software

Managing your law firm’s finances effectively is a game-changer. Having a tight grip on your finances means staying on top of billable hours, crunching expense numbers, and fostering a healthy flow of cash.

The right accounting software automates tedious tasks, provides valuable financial insights, and ensures compliance with regulations. It helps you avoid costly errors and make smart business decisions, which frees up more time to focus on more valuable work.

ZipBooks is a standout accounting software that transforms financial management for law firms. Its intuitive, user-friendly interface makes complex accounting tasks accessible to everyone, even those without an accounting background.

With ZipBooks, creating professional invoices is a snap, tracking expenses is effortless, and managing billable hours is precise.

Plus, it integrates seamlessly with popular tools like PayPal, Stripe, and Google Drive, keeping all your financial data in one easy-to-manage place.

9. Time Tracking Software

Accurate time-tracking software is exactly what you need to get paid for every minute of your hard work. A good time-tracking app eliminates manual errors, streamlines your billing process, and provides insights into how you and your team spend time.

Get a firm grip on your company’s operations, and you’ll uncover opportunities to refine processes, optimize resource use, and fuel greater profitability and client loyalty.

Go for Time Analytics if you want to make time tracking easy and effective. Imagine a system that lets you log your hours with just a few clicks, whether you’re entering them manually or using real-time timers.

Time Analytics offers this simplicity, and every minute is accurately captured. What’s the pulse of your productivity? The reports give you a beat-by-beat breakdown, surfacing time-wasting patterns, so you can refine your workflow, prioritize what counts, and make every minute count.

Other Basic Law Office Essentials

Running a law firm efficiently requires more than just specialized legal software. There are essential tools that every law office needs to handle day-to-day operations and keep everything running smoothly.

Word Processing Tools

In a law office, the workday rarely unfolds without drafting documents, crafting contracts, and fine-tuning briefs – all exercises that rely heavily on trusty word processing tools like Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

Video Conference Tools

Zoom is a favorite for its user-friendly interface and high-quality video, perfect for client meetings, virtual court appearances, and team discussions.

Microsoft Teams goes a step further, integrating seamlessly with other Microsoft Office tools and offering a comprehensive platform for chat, file sharing, and video conferencing all in one place.

Cloud Software

Storing and accessing documents securely from anywhere is a must. Cloud software like Google Drive and Dropbox provide secure, accessible storage solutions that make sure your files are always available when you need them.

These tools also offer excellent collaboration features that allow you to share documents and work on them with your team in real time.

Document Management Software

Keeping your documents organized and easily retrievable is essential. iManage and NetDocuments are designed specifically for law firms as they offer robust document management capabilities.

More specifically, they help you store, organize, and access all your legal documents securely so you can find what you need quickly and efficiently.

Note-Taking Apps

Good note-taking is a must for capturing important details during client meetings, court sessions, or brainstorming sessions.

Evernote and OneNote are top choices, offering features like tagging, organization, and syncing across devices. These apps ensure your notes are always at your fingertips, well-organized, and easily searchable.

Online Payments

Getting paid promptly is critical for maintaining cash flow. Online payment solutions like LawPay and PayPal make it easy for clients to pay their bills online.

These tools offer secure, convenient payment options, helping you receive payments quickly and efficiently without the hassle of checks and bank visits.

Calendar and Scheduling Apps

Keeping track of appointments, deadlines, and court dates is essential. Tools like Outlook Calendar and Google Calendar help you manage your schedule efficiently, send reminders, and make sure you never miss an important date.

Integration with other tools ensures seamless workflow and organization.

Communication Tools

Efficient communication is key to a successful law practice. Slack and Microsoft Teams facilitate instant messaging, file sharing, and team collaboration, which make it easy to communicate with colleagues and clients quickly and effectively.

How to Choose the Right Software

Choosing the right software for your law firm is a crucial decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Each firm has unique needs, and the best software for one may not be the best for another. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

Assess Your Needs

Start by evaluating your firm’s specific needs. Managing your firm smoothly requires some heavy lifting—do you have the right tools for document management, keeping track of time and billing, and fostering strong client relationships? Pinpointing your primary needs will help narrow down your options.

Consider Your Budget

Determine your budget for legal tech. While some tools offer free basic versions, others may require a significant investment. To get a true sense of the software’s worth, tally up the pros – improved efficiency, for instance, or enhanced communication – against the initial outlay.

Test Before You Commit

Many software providers offer free trials or demos. Take advantage of these opportunities to test the software and see if it fits your needs. Involve your team in the trial process to get their feedback.

Evaluate Ease of Use

Choose software that is user-friendly and requires minimal training. A complicated system can lead to frustration and low adoption rates among your team.

What Are the Benefits of Adopting Legal Tech?

Your law practice can experience a major upgrade when you bring legal tech into the mix. Here’s why jumping on the legal tech bandwagon may be just what you need to get ahead of the competition:

1. Maximized Efficiency

Legal tech tools take the grunt work out of your day. What if you could offload all the grunt work? No more pouring over paperwork, stressing about case management, or sacrificing hours to billing: automation can take care of it all.

With automation handling the routine stuff, you’ll have more time to tackle the big-picture, high-impact tasks that really matter.

2. Spot-On Accuracy

Slapping a halt on human error is a breeze when automated systems take the reins on data entry, document drafting, and time tracking. Higher accuracy is a pressure-reducer.

It puts you at ease, allows you to stand tall, and quash those doubts that creep in when your work is full of errors.

3. Sky-High Productivity

With streamlined workflows and efficient task management, legal tech helps you get more done in less time.

You’ll be able to handle more cases and serve more clients without breaking a sweat.

4. Better Client Service

Clients love transparency and quick responses. Legal tech enables secure client portals and CRM software that keep clients in the loop and allow seamless communication.

Happier clients mean more referrals and repeat business.

5. Significant Cost Savings

Cut down on costs by automating routine tasks and reducing the need for paper-based processes.

Legal tech saves you money on printing, storage, and administrative overhead, which can help improve your bottom line.

6. Improved Security

You can protect sensitive information with robust security features like encryption, secure access controls, and regular backups.

Legal tech ensures your client data and legal documents are safe from prying eyes and data breaches.

7. Effortless Collaboration

Legal tech makes teamwork a breeze.

Shared digital workspaces, real-time document editing, and integrated communication channels mean your team can collaborate seamlessly, no matter where they are.

8. Insightful Analytics

Draw meaningful conclusions from your data with analytics and reporting tools. What’s working, what’s not, and where can you improve?

Monitor your firm’s performance, examine case outcomes, and use that insight to spark positive change.

9. Better Flexibility

Work from anywhere with cloud-based legal tech solutions.

Whether you’re in the office, at home, or on the go, you’ll have access to the information and tools you need to keep things moving.

10. Competitive Edge

Lastly, you can stand out from the crowd with cutting-edge technology.

Offering efficient, accurate, and client-friendly services will attract more clients and improve your firm’s reputation, giving you a leg up on the competition.

Start Your Tech Stack With Briefpoint

The secret to law firm efficiency lies within automation. Lucky for us, we’re living in a time where automation is easy, accessible, and incredibly effective.

First things first, what tasks consume most of your energy, time, and soul? For most litigation attorneys, it’s drafting discovery documents. These documents have no room for error and require hours of work when done manually. Not to mention the endless back-and-forth between paralegals, clients, and attorneys.

Briefpoint.ai recognizes these issues as major bottlenecks, which is why the platform is designed to help you draft discovery documents in minutes. No more copy-pasting from older documents or rechecking formatting again and again. Briefpoint.ai does most of the heavy lifting.

Need to input client responses? Briefpoint Bridge lets you collect and plug in client responses on the same platform. Yup, constant emailing no more.

Try Briefpoint’s capabilities today and schedule a demo.

Unlock Maximum Savings Every Year

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

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Legal Software

Why is legal technology important for lawyers?

For lawyers bogged down in tasks that eat away at their billable hours, legal technology is a liberator. It tackles the drudgery, freeing lawyers to reengage with the kind of high-stakes, high-reward work that brought them to the profession in the first place.

What should I consider when choosing legal software?

Consider your specific needs, the software’s ease of use, integration with other tools, and the cost. Check what others in the legal profession have to say about a potential partner – their input can be invaluable.

How can I make sure my data is secure with legal tech tools?

Look for software that offers robust security features, such as encryption, regular backups, and compliance with legal industry standards. It’s also important to choose reputable providers.

Is legal tech difficult to implement in my firm?

Most legal tech tools are designed to be user-friendly and come with comprehensive support and training. Implementing legal tech can be smooth and straightforward, especially with the right guidance and resources.

Will adopting legal tech help me attract more clients?

Absolutely! Offering efficient, accurate, and client-friendly services with legal tech can set you apart from the competition, making your firm more attractive to potential clients.

7 Best Legal CRM Software: Features, Pricing & More

Is your law firm constantly juggling too many tasks and struggling to keep up with client demands?

You’re not alone. In a law firm, staying organized and maintaining strong client relationships can be a real challenge—one that can be impossible to overcome without tech. Luckily, there’s a clear solution: legal CRM software.

But what exactly does it do, and how can it simplify your day-to-day operations? In this article, we’ll break down what Legal CRM software is, explore its key features, and discuss how it can benefit your law firm.

Plus, we’ll highlight some top CRM options that can help you modernize your practice. Let’s dive in and discover how to maximize your workflows and keep your clients happier than ever.

What is Legal Client Relationship Management Software?

Legal client relationship management software is a tool designed specifically for law firms to help them manage and improve their interactions with both new and existing clients.

It acts like a digital organizer, where all your client details, communication history, and appointments are kept in one convenient place. Instead of sifting through emails or scattered notes, you can quickly find what you need and stay on top of your client relationships.

Essentially, the goal of a CRM is to make sure nothing falls through the cracks, so your firm runs more smoothly, and your clients feel well taken care of.

Key Features of CRM Software

Here are some basic features you’ll typically find in CRM software:

Contact management: Keep all your client information organized and easily accessible, including names, phone numbers, email addresses, and notes on previous interactions.
Client intake: Manage the client intake process from attracting new prospects to retaining clients with fewer time-consuming tasks in between.
Communication tracking: Record and track all communications with clients, whether through email, phone calls, or messages, so you can quickly review past conversations and follow up as needed.
Appointment scheduling: Easily schedule and manage appointments with features like automated reminders to help prevent missed meetings.
Task management: Assign tasks to team members, set deadlines, and track progress so that everyone stays on top of their responsibilities.
Document storage: Store important legal documents securely within the CRM, making them easy to access and share with clients or team members.
Reporting and analytics: Generate reports on client interactions, sales, and other metrics to help you analyze performance and make informed decisions.
Workflow automation: Automate repetitive tasks like sending follow-up emails, assigning tasks, or updating client information, which helps free up time for more important work.
Lead management: Track potential clients (leads) through your sales pipeline, from initial contact to final conversion, to make sure no opportunity is overlooked.
Integration with other tools: Connect your CRM with other software you use, like email platforms, calendar apps, or billing systems, for a seamless workflow.
Mobile access: Access your CRM from mobile devices so you can manage client relationships on the go.

What Are the Benefits of Using Law Firm CRM Software?

Any law firm that’s working without a client relationship management tool is missing out on incredibly valuable advantages. The biggest ones include:

Better Client Communication

With a law firm CRM, all your client interactions—from emails and phone calls to meetings—are stored in one place. You’ll no longer waste time sifting through scattered files or trying to recall the last conversation you had with a client.

Everything’s right there at your fingertips, which makes it easy to respond quickly and accurately. This not only saves you time but also builds trust with your clients as it shows them that you’ve got everything under control.

Plus, a CRM lets you add a personal touch to your communication. When you keep track of client preferences and notes from past interactions, you can tailor your messages to each client.

This level of personalization makes your clients feel heard and valued, which can go a long way in strengthening your relationships with them.

More Efficient Operations

A law firm CRM can take care of those routine tasks that eat up your day, like sending follow-up emails, scheduling appointments, and tracking deadlines.

Instead of handling these tasks manually (or relying on a paralegal), you can set up the CRM to do it for you. Automation not only frees up your time but also cuts down on mistakes which, in turn, makes sure that everything runs smoothly.

Improved Client Retention

Keeping your clients happy is key to your firm’s success, and a CRM helps you do just that. By keeping track of every interaction and detail about your clients, there’s a bigger chance that you’ll always meet their needs and address any concerns they might have.

This kind of attentiveness shows your clients that you’re reliable, which makes them more likely to stick around.

A CRM also helps you spot patterns in client behavior, so you can anticipate their needs before they even bring them up. Such a proactive approach makes clients feel valued and appreciated, which not only keeps them coming back but also increases the chances they’ll recommend your firm to others.

Increased Productivity

When all your client data, communication records, and tasks are organized in one place, your team can work much more efficiently. There’s no more time wasted searching for information or trying to remember what needs to be done next. The CRM keeps everything in order so your team can stay focused and get more done.

This increase in productivity also means you can handle more cases, serve your clients better, and reduce stress across your team—a positive domino effect that will ultimately lead to a better bottom line.

Data-Driven Decisions

A CRM doesn’t just organize your client information—it’s also a tool for making smarter decisions.

Many CRMs offer reporting and analytics features that give you insights into how your firm is performing. You can see what’s working well and where there’s room for improvement, and use this data to guide your decisions.

With these insights at your disposal, you can make informed choices that help your firm grow and succeed. Whether it’s adjusting your client outreach strategy or reallocating resources, having solid data to back up your decisions means you’re always steering your firm in the right direction.

The 7 Best Legal CRM For Law Firms

A CRM tool is a must-have for any business, but even more so for fast-paced and highly competitive industries like law.

Manual client management systems might have worked before, but if a law firm wants to expand its breadth without stretching itself too thin, CRM software is a must-have investment.

But which one do you choose? Among the many options out there, seven CRM platforms have risen to the top for their ability to meet the unique needs of legal professionals.

1. Clio

Clio is one of the most popular CRMs in the legal industry (perhaps even the best legal CRM software, according to many), and it’s easy to see why. It offers a wide range of features that cover everything from client management to billing and document storage.

What makes Clio stand out is its ability to integrate with other tools, which makes it a versatile option for law firms of all sizes. Plus, its user-friendly design ensures that legal teams can quickly get up and running without any headaches.

Key Features:

Client management
Billing and invoicing
Document storage
Time tracking
Integration with other legal tools
Task and calendar management

Best For: Law firms of all sizes looking for a comprehensive, user-friendly CRM that integrates well with other tools.

Pricing: Starts at $49 per month for calendar management, document management, online payment options, time tracking, email and e-signature integrations, and other basic features.

2. Lawmatics

Lawmatics’ main goal is to make client acquisition easier and more efficient. With features like client intake automation and marketing management, this legal-specific CRM helps law firms simplify their processes and convert more leads into clients.

Additionally, the platform’s analytics give firms valuable insights into their marketing efforts. Such information allows them to fine-tune their strategies for better results.

Key Features:

Client intake automation
Marketing management
Email campaigns
Analytics and reporting
Task automation
Customizable workflows

Best For: Firms focused on improving client acquisition and marketing strategies.

Pricing: The Essential Plan offers basic features like client intake, lead management, calendaring, and custom forms. Contact their sales team for a quote.

3. Law Ruler

Another legal-specific CRM software is Law Ruler, a platform for intake management and lead tracking. It’s perfect for firms that want to ensure prospective clients don’t slip through the cracks.

With built-in text messaging and email marketing tools, Law Ruler keeps the lines of communication open, helping firms stay connected with clients. It’s a go-to choice for those who want to focus on lead management and client engagement without the typical hassle.

Key Features:

Lead tracking
Client intake management
Built-in text messaging
Email marketing
Calendar and task management
Reporting and analytics

Best For: Firms that prioritize lead management and maintaining strong client communication.

Pricing: Starts with the Pro Plan that accommodates up to three users and comes with basic CRM capabilities, custom intake forms, a marketing dashboard, etc. Contact their team for a custom quote.

4. Zoho

Zoho CRM is a flexible tool that’s great for law firms looking for something they can customize to fit their specific needs. While it’s not exclusively designed for legal practices, Zoho’s adaptability allows it to be tailored to just about any workflow.

It offers a powerful set of features, including sales automation and analytics, at a price that’s accessible to firms of all sizes. If you’re looking for a CRM that can be shaped to fit your firm’s unique processes, Zoho is a solid option.

Key Features:

Sales automation
Contact management
Workflow customization
Analytics and reporting
Integration with third-party apps
Email and social media marketing

Best For: Law firms seeking a flexible, customizable CRM that fits various needs and budgets.

Pricing: Starts at $29 per organization per month for invoice creation, calendar management, online payment processing, and other core features.

5. HubSpot

Next up is HubSpot, a CRM platform known for its user-friendly interface and powerful marketing automation features.

Like Zoho, it’s not a law-specific tool, but it’s a great choice for law firms that are new to CRM systems but want something that can grow with them.

HubSpot offers a free version that covers all the basics, making it a great starting point for smaller firms. As your firm’s needs evolve, HubSpot’s scalable features will be there to support your growth.

Key Features:

Contact and lead management
Marketing automation
Email tracking and templates
Pipeline management
Integration with other tools
Analytics and reporting

Best For: Firms that are new to CRM systems but want a scalable solution with strong marketing capabilities.

Pricing: Their Customer Platform plan starts at $20 per month per seat. It includes marketing, sales, service, content, operations, and commerce hubs all bundled together.

6. Salesforce

Salesforce is a giant in the CRM world, and for good reason. Its extensive customization options and powerful features make it a favorite among larger law firms with complex needs.

While it’s not specifically designed for the legal industry, Salesforce’s flexibility allows it to be tailored to fit the diverse demands of big firms.

With advanced reporting, automation, and integration capabilities, Salesforce is a comprehensive solution for firms that need a high level of control and precision in their CRM.

Key Features:

Highly customizable workflows
Advanced reporting and analytics
Contact and account management
Task automation
Integration with numerous third-party apps
Mobile access

Best For: Larger firms with complex needs that require a highly customizable and powerful CRM solution.

Pricing: The Starter Suite for their Service product starts at $25 per user per month. That includes features like case management, customizable dashboards, and a knowledge base.

7. InterAction

InterAction by LexisNexis is a CRM that’s designed specifically for law firms and professional services organizations.

It’s particularly strong in relationship management and helps firms keep track of and expand their network of contacts. InterAction’s tools for managing client communications and business relationships are invaluable for firms focused on growth.

Key Features:

Relationship management
Client communication tracking
Business development tools
Email and calendar integration
Contact management
Reporting and analytics

Best For: Firms focused on relationship management and business development, particularly in the legal sector.

Pricing: Contact their sales team for a personalized quote.

What Other Workflows Can You Automate?

From everything we’ve talked about up to this point, it can be easy to assume that CRM software is all you need to optimize your existing workflows. But what about the other tasks that CRM tools can’t automate?

Let’s talk about other software categories that should complete your law firm tech stack:

Legal Document Automation

While CRM software is handy for storing and managing templates, creating complex legal documents usually needs more than that. It requires understanding the client’s specific needs, interpreting the relevant laws, and crafting language that accurately reflects what the client wants while making sure everything is legally compliant.

For example, when drafting a discovery document, the document often needs to be customized to fit unique circumstances, anticipate potential legal issues, and include precise legal language. This kind of detail and customization isn’t something CRM solutions can fully automate.

Luckily, document automation solutions like Briefpoint bypass this incredibly tedious task. Briefpoint is an AI-powered platform that helps lawyers automate the creation of discovery documents like requests for production, requests for admission, interrogatories, and so much more.

Briefpoint also solves the back-and-forth that typically comes with discovery responses. With Briefpoint Bridge, you can choose the questions that need client responses, translate them into plain language, and send them to your client.

Once your client responds, Bridge automatically plugs in the answers where they belong. Get a demo to see how this all works.

Legal Research

Traditionally, lawyers would spend hours combing through books, databases, and other resources to find the relevant case law, statutes, and legal articles. However, with modern research platforms, much of this process can now be automated.

These tools use advanced search algorithms to sift through vast amounts of legal information and quickly pinpoint what’s most relevant to your case. This not only saves countless hours but also reduces the risk of missing important precedents or legal nuances.

Billing and Accounting

While a CRM can help keep track of client interactions and store basic financial info, the nitty-gritty of billing—like tracking billable hours, applying the right rates, and generating invoices—usually needs specialized legal billing software.

This kind of software helps make sure that every billable activity is captured, invoices are clear and accurate, and payments are tracked smoothly, which is key for maintaining healthy law firm profitability and maintaining client trust.

When it comes to accounting, things get even more intricate. Beyond just tracking income and expenses, law firms have to handle tasks like managing trust accounts, generating detailed financial reports, and staying compliant with regulations.

That’s where legal accounting software comes in. It’s built to tackle these specific challenges and offers the tools needed to keep the firm’s finances in check.

Invest in the Right CRM Software Today

With the right CRM in place, your firm can optimize productivity, make data-driven decisions, and ultimately deliver better service to your clients.

But if you’re looking to take your legal practice to the next level, consider adding Briefpoint to your tech stack. Briefpoint automates the tedious process of creating discovery documents, allowing you to focus more on what really matters—serving your clients.

Schedule a demo today to see how Briefpoint can transform your practice.

Upgrade Your Legal Services While Saving Money

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

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Legal CRM Software

What makes Legal CRM Software different from regular CRM software?

Legal CRM Software is tailored to meet the specific needs of law firms, offering features like case management, client intake, and legal-specific workflows that aren’t typically found in general CRM tools.

Is Legal CRM Software expensive?

Costs can vary depending on the software and the size of your firm, but many CRMs offer tiered pricing to accommodate different needs and budgets.

How secure is Legal CRM Software?

Most Legal CRM Software providers prioritize security and compliance, offering features like data encryption, secure cloud storage, and user access controls to protect your firm’s sensitive information.

Can Legal CRM Software integrate with other tools?

Yes, many Legal CRM tools offer integrations with other software like email clients, document management systems, and billing tools, making it easy to streamline your workflows.

Is It Time to Adopt Legal Automation?

Legal automation simply means using technology to accomplish tasks with minimal human intervention. Usually, automated workflows handle tasks that take up too much time, are repetitive, and don’t necessarily need a lot of input from legal professionals.

But as promising as automation technology is, there is still a lot of due diligence you have to do before implementing it into your practice.

So, let’s take a closer look at what legal automation is, how it works, and how it can benefit you as a legal professional.

What Does Legal Automation Mean?

The simple definition of automation is the use of technology or machines to perform tasks without much human intervention.

In the law industry, legal automation is all about using technology and software to tackle the repetitive, everyday tasks that lawyers traditionally spend hours on.

In the past, law firms and in-house legal teams used manual, isolated processes to handle daily workflows, which often meant staff were bogged down with tedious administrative duties. Legal automation changes this by increasing efficiency, reducing errors, and freeing up time for legal professionals to focus on more complex, valuable work.

What Legal Processes Can You Automate?

Contrary to popular belief (among legal professionals, at least), many legal tasks are subject to automation. Some might argue that legal workflows are too complex to simplify with machines, but today’s legal tech begs to differ.

Here’s a closer look at key legal processes that can be automated:

Contract Review and Management

Contracts are crucial, but managing them can be incredibly time-consuming.

Automation tools can help legal departments by scanning contracts for key clauses, compliance issues, and potential risks. They also keep track of different contract versions to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Plus, workflow automation can speed up the approval process so it’s smoother and more efficient. This means no more going back and forth with different entities and wasting even more time on each contract.

Legal Document Drafting

Historically, drafting legal documents is a tedious process that requires keen attention to detail and at least a few hours spent creating, editing, and reviewing each document.

This is now changing thanks to legal document automation tools that create documents with the same accuracy and consistency as manually created ones–if not better. Most legal document automation tools use a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and templates to speed up the drafting process.

For example, Briefpoint.ai is a generative AI and machine learning tool that drafts discovery responses by analyzing a request document, generating a draft that is mostly complete, and letting you finish up by adding pre-loaded objections or responses.

Billing Management

Automated systems can track billable hours and generate invoices based on those hours and predefined rates. They also monitor payments and send reminders for overdue invoices, which helps simplify the entire billing process and ensures you don’t miss out on any billable time.

This leads to better cash flow for your legal team and less financial stress. Plus, you can have a bird’s eye view of how your time is being spent and whether that time is producing value or not.

Routine Tasks

Administrative tasks, though necessary, can take up a lot of your time. Luckily, modern tech now allows you to create automated workflows for manual processes that otherwise take too much time, money, and brain power.

For example, you can easily automate the following routine tasks:

Data entry
Scheduling
Sending appointment reminders
Client intake forms
Populating client databases
Data entry
Email management
Organizing and filing documents
Task management
Sending task reminders and notifications
Tracking billable hours
Generating and sending invoices
Monitoring payments and sending reminders
Sharing documents securely
Automatic time tracking
Sending follow-up emails and updates
Creating regular reports

Legal Research

Legal research can be a bottleneck because it often involves combing through mountains of complex legal texts, cases, and statutes, all demanding meticulous attention to detail and absolute precision.

However, it’s not like your legal department can skip this very important step.

Luckily, there are now automation tools that can search through vast databases of legal texts, statutes, and precedents way faster than a human ever could. They can also offer summaries of relevant cases and legal opinions, which saves you hours of reading.

Additionally, these tools keep you up-to-date on the latest legal developments so that you always have the most current information.

How Does Automation Benefit Legal Teams?

Automation is a hotly debated topic in the legal field, and not without reason. There are many concerns about the validity of AI-generated work, such as legal documents, and many lawyers are hesitant to automate something they can already do themselves.

There’s also a notion that the law is too complex to throw technology into the mix, but legal automation technology is proving otherwise.

If you’re still on the fence about automating, here are some benefits that might convince you to make the switch:

Increased Efficiency

Automating routine tasks saves a lot of time. Things like document drafting, billing, and scheduling get done faster and more consistently, which frees up lawyers to focus on more strategic and complex legal services.

Cost Savings

With less need for manual labor, operational costs go down. This means fewer hours billed for administrative tasks and more resources available for client work and business development.

Improved Accuracy

Human error is common in repetitive tasks, but automated systems make sure tasks are completed accurately.

Compliance

Automation tools help maintain compliance with industry standards and regulations. Automated checks and audits ensure all processes meet the latest legal requirements, which cuts down on the risk of non-compliance.

Better Client Service

With routine tasks handled automatically, legal professionals can offer quicker turnaround times and more personalized service. Automation also helps track client interactions and case progress to improve overall client satisfaction.

Simplified Workflow

Automation creates a more organized workflow for legal matters. Automated task management and scheduling make sure deadlines are met and nothing falls through the cracks, leading to a more productive and efficient team.

Scalability

As your practice grows, automation allows you to handle more cases and clients without needing to hire a lot more staff. This means you can expand without compromising on quality or efficiency.

Increased Job Satisfaction

By taking care of repetitive and mundane tasks, automation lets legal professionals focus on more meaningful and challenging work. This can lead to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.

Data-Driven Insights

Many automation tools come with analytics and reporting features that offer valuable insights into your operations. Such insights can help you make informed decisions, optimize processes, and save time on research.

Signs That You Need Legal Automation Software

If you’re wondering whether it’s time to invest in legal automation software, here are some signs to look out for:

High Volume of Routine Tasks

When your team is buried under administrative duties more than actual legal work, it’s a clear sign that you need automation.

Tasks like scheduling, data entry, and document management can be automated, freeing up your team to focus on more important work.

Frequent Errors

Mistakes in documents, billing, or data entry are becoming common. Human error is inevitable, especially with repetitive tasks. Automation can significantly reduce these errors by ensuring consistency and accuracy in every process.

This not only improves the quality of your work but also builds trust with your clients, who rely on your precision and expertise.

Slow Turnaround Times

Struggling to meet deadlines and having clients wait longer than they should for responses and results is a red flag. Automation can speed up processes like document drafting, contract review, and legal research so you deliver timely and efficient service.

Faster turnaround times mean happier clients and a more productive team!

Increasing Operational Costs

If your expenses are climbing due to inefficiencies and the need for more administrative staff, it’s time to consider automation.

Automating routine tasks can reduce operational costs by minimizing the need for additional administrative support. This allows you to allocate resources more effectively and invest in areas that drive growth and client satisfaction.

Employee Burnout

Overworked staff dealing with repetitive tasks can lead to burnout, reducing productivity and increasing turnover rates.

Automation can alleviate this burden by handling mundane tasks, allowing your team to focus on more challenging and rewarding work.

Manual Data Management

Spending too much time managing and organizing files and data manually can be a major productivity drain.

Automation can streamline data management by organizing and storing information efficiently, making it easily accessible when needed.

Gain a Competitive Advantage With Briefpoint.ai

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

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Legal Automation

Is legal automation expensive?

While there’s an upfront cost, the long-term savings on time and labor usually outweigh the initial investment. Plus, many automation tools offer scalable solutions to fit different budgets.

Will legal automation replace lawyers?

Absolutely not. Automation tools are designed to assist lawyers in handling routine tasks, allowing them to focus on more complex legal work.

How difficult is it to implement legal automation?

Implementation varies depending on the tool and the firm’s size, but many providers offer comprehensive support to make the transition smooth.

Can small firms benefit from legal automation?

Yes, small firms can gain significant advantages from automation, such as improved efficiency and cost savings, which can help them compete with larger firms.

Is legal automation secure?

Most legal automation tools prioritize security and compliance with industry standards to protect sensitive data.

9 Law Practice Optimization Solutions to Maximize Productivity

Running a successful law firm is about more than just winning cases; it’s about managing your practice efficiently. Staying ahead of the curve in 2024 means fine-tuning your law practice to deliver exceptional service to your clients.

Lawyers are no strangers to pressure, and with technology accelerating, it’s high time to cut through the noise and optimize their workflow.

Rather than just going through the motions, use these clear-cut guidelines to set your law firm up for success.

1. Analyze Your Workflows

Before you can boost law firm efficiency, you need to know what’s keeping you from it. And to do that, you need to start by analyzing your legal workflows.

When you want to get a clear picture of how things are done at your law firm, start by mapping out the steps for common tasks like client intake or billing. A simple flowchart can do wonders here, showing you where the process gets stuck or if there are steps that just make everyone’s life harder for no reason.

Don’t forget to chat with your team about these processes. They’re the ones dealing with the everyday details and can point out the pain points you might miss. They might have some great ideas on how to make things smoother.

Now that you’re in the thick of it be on high alert for pesky roadblocks or needless busy work that’s slowing you down. Knowing where the process slows down shows you exactly where you need to make changes to keep things moving efficiently.

2. Automate Where You Can

One of the biggest legal trends is automation, which heavily emphasizes artificial intelligence. While some law firms are slow to adopt this new legal technology, there’s no denying that automation can help you get rid of multiple bottlenecks all at once.

Start by looking at the routine tasks that eat up a chunk of your day. Picture this: you’re booking appointments, digging through client files, and digging up legal precedents without breaking a sweat. With automation on your side, the tedium disappears, and you’re left with room to breathe.

Using software that handles these tasks can drastically cut down on the time you spend on administrative chores and free you up to focus more on your clients and their needs.

For example, using discovery document automation tools can simplify the complex process of handling large volumes of legal documents during the discovery phase.

Tools like Briefpoint.ai speed up the drafting of discovery request and response documents by automatically generating precise, well-organized documents based on the information fed into the system.

3. Optimize Your Online Presence

An optimized online presence makes your work easier by automating tasks like scheduling and gathering client info, so you can focus more on your cases. At the same time, it helps increase law firm profitability by pulling in more clients.

Here are some of the best ways to start improving your online presence as a law practice:

Master Law Firm SEO

Mastering SEO for your law firm revolves around getting seen by the right people at the right time. You boost your spot on search engines by using keywords that mesh with what you offer and weaving them into your site’s content—from blog post content to headings and page descriptions. This means your firm pops up more often when prospective clients are on the lookout for the legal help you provide.

As your law firm’s website climbs higher in search engine rankings and pulls in more visitors, you’ll find yourself spending way less on old-school advertising. Instead, you can focus more on what you do best—helping your clients–and make your practice more efficient at bringing in new business without the constant hustle.

Prioritize Quality Content

Quality content does more than fill up your law firm’s website—it connects and answers the real concerns of potential clients. With well-crafted blog posts, detailed articles, and useful FAQs, you establish your firm as a go-to resource, building trust and expertise in your field.

This kind of content draws in clients who are already interested in what you have to offer, which makes it easier to convert them into actual clients.

Plus, websites that regularly update with relevant, high-quality content tend to be higher in SEO rankings. Create content that truly resonates, and you’ll do more than just retain clients – you’ll welcome new ones into the fold.

Simplify Your Website

The legal industry is notorious for having overcrowded, difficult-to-navigate websites as the norm. A clear and simple design makes all the difference. It lets potential clients quickly find what they need with no fuss.

Streamlining your site by removing unnecessary elements improves both aesthetics and functionality, giving potential clients a compelling reason to stay. This focus on improving user experience not only impresses visitors but also translates to tangible technical improvements.

Leverage Social Media

Platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter are perfect for connecting with your target audience and showing off what you’re all about. To stoke engagement, swap out your social media content regularly.

Layer in informative legal tips, inside scoops on your firm’s endeavors, and show-stopping content that brings out your expertise.

It’s also a great space to chat with people. Respond to comments, jump into discussions, and share useful info to show there’s a real, approachable team behind your firm’s logo.

4. Apply Time Management Techniques

Law is known for being a demanding career, and perhaps it’s always going to be that way. However, being a successful legal professional doesn’t mean you have to spend all your waking hours at the office.

Time management for attorneys is the answer to major productivity lags, burnout, and a host of other issues. But how do you practice it in real life? Here are some useful techniques you can start with:

The Pomodoro technique: Work in focused 25-minute intervals followed by 5-minute breaks. After four cycles, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.
Time blocking: Dedicate specific blocks of time to different tasks or types of work throughout the day. Focus on a single task and avoid constantly shifting gears – your productivity will thank you.
Task batching: Group similar tasks together and complete them in one go to reduce the start-stop time typically spent switching between different task types.
Eisenhower box: Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, focusing on what needs immediate attention while scheduling or delegating less critical tasks.
The two-minute rule: Immediately handle tasks that can be completed in two minutes or less to prevent them from piling up.

5. Learn How to Organize Documents

How do you simplify document management and stop having to search for files for longer than necessary?

Develop a clear file naming system that accounts for clients, cases, and document types and sticks to it. This makes it much easier to find what you need quickly.

Consider using a digital document management system as well. Imagine having your entire file collection at your fingertips, no matter where life takes you. These systems offer easy online storage and access anytime, anywhere.

They also come with great features like advanced search functions, automatic backups, and version control. With a well-organized document system, you’ll find yourself spending less time searching through files and more time focusing on your clients.

6. Make Work Communications Easy

Keeping communication smooth is key, whether it’s chatting with your team or updating clients. For starters, think beyond email. Instant messaging apps like Slack or Microsoft Teams can make talking with your team quicker and more organized. Fast updates, file sharing, and quick video chats keep everyone on the same page without overloading inboxes.

Increase client satisfaction with a portal that keeps them fully informed. Integrated with your practice management software, these portals give clients secure access to their case files and updates and let them message you securely.

Slash the endless back-and-forth on email and phone tags, and you’ll find everything becomes crystal clear and ridiculously efficient.

7. Outsource

Outsourcing the stuff that doesn’t directly involve your legal expertise—like accounting, IT, or marketing—can really lighten your team’s load. By passing these tasks to specialists, you not only free up your own time but also get the peace of mind that they’re being handled by pros.

Think about offloading repetitive tasks such as data entry or even some types of research to a virtual legal assistant. This move lets your legal team zero in on building stronger cases and providing top-notch service to clients rather than getting bogged down by admin work.

Plus, trim the fat from your operation, and you’ll likely save a pretty penny without sacrificing quality.

Instead of spreading yourself too thin, outsource wisely and you’ll find you’re able to refocus on the essential legal work that drives your firm’s success, making steady progress towards your law firm’s goals.

8. Invest in Advanced Tools

As legal tech surges forward, law firms are discovering a whole new level of productivity. Imagine research fueled by AI, documents that organize themselves, and dare we dream? More time for the work really matters. Here are some tools you can start with:

Document generation tools: Stop spending hours on every single document and embrace generative artificial intelligence instead. For example, tools like Briefpoint.ai can help you draft discovery documents in minutes with the same level of accuracy as when you do it manually—if not better.
Case management software: Tools like Clio, MyCase, and PracticePanther help manage case files, client information, and calendars all in one platform.
Legal research tools: Databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis forge a direct path to an unparalleled storehouse of case law, statutes, and insider knowledge—the lifeblood of informed legal counsel.
AI-powered legal analytics: Platforms like Lex Machina use artificial intelligence to provide legal analytics for strategy formulation and predicting litigation outcomes and trends.

9. Measure Your Productivity

After applying all these optimization strategies, how can you tell if they’re making a difference?

Identify a clear finish line – for instance, replying to clients at lightning speed or handling a higher volume of cases each month. Use tools that track productivity to see if you’re hitting these marks. These tools can show how your team spends their time and pinpoint any slow spots that could use a boost.

Don’t forget to check in regularly. You get a chance to take the pulse of your progress and tweak your approach as needed. For example, if you notice some tasks always drag on too long, it might be time to train your team better in those areas or look into automating some steps.

Forge a path to peak performance by staying dialed into your workflow. Regular self-assessment helps you laser-focus on what’s working – and what’s not – so you can hone in on the adjustments that drive growth.

How Discovery Optimization Can Help You Save More

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

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

FAQs About Law Practice Optimization

What’s the easiest way to start making my law firm more efficient?

Dive right into automating the simple stuff—like scheduling and client billing. It’s a no-brainer that clears your plate, so you can concentrate on the big league—your clients.

Can social media actually make a difference in my law practice?

Yes. Social media is a fantastic tool for getting your name out there and connecting with potential clients. It’s not just about posts and likes; it’s about growing your business and building relationships.

Should I invest in tech to manage documents?

Absolutely. Upgrading to a slick document management system makes your life easier and keeps everything ticking without a hitch.

How often should I check if my new productivity hacks are actually working?

Give it a regular look—maybe every few months. It’s good to keep tabs on what’s working and modify things that aren’t. Keeping your practice humming along nicely is all about staying on top of these changes.

Top 21 Software Programs for Law Firms

Accuracy, consistency, and quality of service are three of the most important pillars in the legal industry. Unsurprisingly, it takes a lot of time and effort to meet all of these standards for every client you take in, which are resources that tend to be scarce in any busy law firm.

But what if you could abide by these pillars and optimize your workflows without sacrificing even more time and energy?

Software solutions for law firms are designed for this very purpose. Some tools can help you manage your entire practice all one platform. Others handle the nitty-gritty of a specific task, such as discovery document drafting or tracking billable hours.

However, out of all the tools available, how do you know which ones to add to your tech stack?

In this guide, we’ll go over the best software programs for law firms per category. We’re about to get up close and personal with what they have to offer and why you should give them serious thought.

Why Use Legal Software?

Before we get into the top legal software programs of 2024, let’s find out why you should be using them in the first place. Here are some of the most important advantages of using legal software:

It Saves You Time

Legal work is full of tasks that can eat up your day, like drafting documents, scheduling meetings, and handling invoices. Doing these manually? That’s a time drain and a huge hurdle to ideal time management.

Legal software steps in to automate these routine jobs and let you breeze through them quickly. As a result, you’ll have the bandwidth to concentrate on high-leverage activities, like forging strong client connections and developing sound case strategies that deliver results.

It Helps You Avoid Mistakes

In the field of law, accuracy isn’t just important—it’s everything. A tiny error can lead to big headaches down the road, and when you’re doing things manually, there’s always a risk of something slipping through the cracks.

With legal software handling the heavy lifting, you can breathe easy knowing your documents are accurate and consistent. No more pouring over templates for hours on end and worrying about missed details or typos that could cause problems later on.

It Upgrades Your Efficiency

Running a law firm means juggling a lot of things like cases, clients, documents, billing, you name it. Legal software acts like a central hub where you can manage everything in one place.

This not only organizes your workflow but also makes it easier for your team to collaborate and stay on the same page. When everything’s organized and easily accessible, you can work faster and more efficiently, which is good news for your firm and your clients.

It Improves Client Service

Clients expect quick responses, clear communication, and timely updates on their cases. Thanks to legal software, you can confidently meet these expectations.

With tools for client management, automated reminders, and easy access to case information, you can stay on top of client needs and provide a level of service that keeps them satisfied and coming back for more.

Plus, it helps you maintain a professional image, which is always a bonus.

It Increases Law Firm Profitability

At the end of the day, one of the biggest benefits of legal software is how it can maximize your firm’s bottom line.

By saving time, reducing errors, and improving efficiency, legal software allows you to focus more on billable work and less on administrative tasks. This means more productive hours, better client retention, and, ultimately, increased profitability for your firm.

When you can handle more clients or cases without expanding your team, your revenue per lawyer goes up while your costs stay the same or even decrease.

21 Best Legal Software Programs by Category

When it comes to running a law firm, having the right software can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. To help you out, we’ve broken down the top legal software programs by category.

Whether you need to automate documents, manage cases, or streamline your billing, there’s something here that’ll fit the bill.

Legal Document Automation Software

If you’re buried under a mountain of paperwork, legal document automation software is a real lifesaver. No more starting from scratch! These tools empower you to generate intricate legal documents rapidly without reinventing the wheel every single time. Just plug in the details, and the software does the heavy lifting.

1. Briefpoint

Briefpoint is a platform that uses generative artificial intelligence to automate the creation of discovery documents, such as requests for production, requests for admission, and interrogatories.

Usually, drafting these documents manually can take hours, perhaps even days or weeks, if you’re going back and forth with client responses. Briefpoint is designed to take all the hassle out of the process by using AI and machine learning to do all the routine stuff.

Here’s how it works:

You upload your discovery request to Briefpoint
Briefpoint’s AI will scan the document and extract as much information as it can
You add objections and responses to your responses, while Briefpoint takes care of the routine data
You download your document and apply the finishing touches on MS Word

That’s not all. Client responses are also much easier to handle, thanks to Briefpoint Bridge. This feature lets you select the interrogatories you want your client to answer, add notes to make them easier to fill out, and then send your client a link to the portal where they can input their responses.

Once they’re done, you can edit and plug in their responses to your discovery document, and that’s it. You no longer have to suffer through the endless back-and-forth emailing just to collect client responses.

2. Knackly

Knackly is a standout when it comes to flexibility in document automation. If your firm deals with a variety of legal documents that need to be customized to fit specific situations, Knackly is your go-to tool.

It allows you to create tailored templates that match your exact needs, which saves you from having to start from scratch each time. Knackly’s easy-to-use interface makes it simple to input the necessary information, and the software takes care of the rest, generating accurate and professional documents in no time.

This adaptability is a game-changer for legal teams that handle non-traditional cases.

3. Smokeball

Picture this: a law firm where paperwork disappears and billable hours skyrocket. Smokeball makes this a reality by centralizing data, simplifying time tracking, and turbocharging collaboration. With Smokeball, lawyers can dominate their caseloads and savor the rewards.

What makes Smokeball stand out is how it integrates document automation with practice management features. You can easily generate documents using customizable templates, which helps make sure that everything you produce is consistent and accurate.

It also includes tools for managing cases, billing clients, and even communicating with them, all within the same platform.

Law Practice Management Software

Managing a law firm involves a lot of moving parts like cases, clients, schedules, and billing. This is precisely why you need legal practice management software.

The more time you spend on administrative tasks, the less time you have for your clients. These tools flip that script, giving you the freedom to prioritize high-touch service and forge meaningful connections with your clients. Here’s a look at three of the best options out there:

4. Clio

Law firms of all shapes and sizes consistently choose Clio. Its extensive set of tools makes it possible to run a law practice smoothly, giving lawyers the power to handle anything that comes their way.

With Clio, you can manage cases, track billable hours, send invoices, and communicate with clients, all from one intuitive platform. What really sets this system apart is its ability to adapt to your firm’s exact requirements.

Plus, whether you’re a solo practitioner or part of a larger team, Clio scales to meet your requirements.

5. PracticePanther

PracticePanther is another strong contender in the world of law practice management software. It’s designed to be user-friendly, which makes it easy to get up and running quickly. It handles everything from case management and billing to client communication and document storage.

It’s especially appealing for smaller firms that need advanced features without the steep learning curve. Plus, with its mobile app, you can manage your practice on the go, which helps make sure you’re always connected to your work, even when you’re out of the office.

6. MyCase

MyCase is a solid option for firms looking for an all-in-one solution. It offers a balanced mix of features that cover case management, billing, document storage, and client communication.

MyCase is particularly known for its user-friendly design and strong customer support, making it a favorite among solo practitioners and small firms.

Legal Research

Legal research is a cornerstone of any lawyer’s work, but it doesn’t have to be a slog. With the right software, you can speed up the process, find what you need with ease, and see to it that your arguments are backed by solid precedents.

You’re in luck–we’ve got two effective solutions to share with you.

7. FindLaw

FindLaw has been a trusted resource for years as it offers a vast database of legal information that’s easy to access. Whether you’re digging into case law, statutes, or just need the latest legal news, FindLaw is the perfect tool.

Solo legal professionals and small firms get reliable info that won’t break the bank. You’ll appreciate how quickly you can tap into the platform’s resources and get back to making headway on your cases.

8. Casetext

Casetext takes legal research up a notch by incorporating AI to make your work even more efficient. With their CARA AI technology, you can upload briefs or motions, and the software will find relevant cases and statutes that you might have missed.

It’s like having a second set of eyes on your research that are making sure you don’t overlook anything important.

With Casetext, attorneys can say goodbye to fruitless searching and welcome swift, accurate answers—it’s the secret to getting the best possible results in the least amount of time.

Contract Management Software

Managing contracts is a vital task for any law firm, but it can often feel overwhelming. What if you could take the strain out of contract management? By leveraging the right software, you can craft, revise, sign, and store your contracts with ease, sans the headache.

Let’s take a look at two top tools that can help you manage contracts more efficiently and with less hassle.

9. Ironclad

Dealing with an avalanche of contracts is no longer a burden, thanks to Ironclad’s dynamic management system, which rallies and shapes the contracts into sensible order, unlocking the full potential of firms handling massive volumes.

It’s not just about storing documents—Ironclad automates the entire contract process, from creation to execution.

With contract drafting made effortless, you’ll speed through templates that adapt to your needs in no time. Once your contract is ready, Ironclad makes it easy to manage the review and approval stages, keeping everything organized and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

10. PandaDoc

PandaDoc is another great option for contract management, especially if you’re looking for something that’s easy to use and integrates well with other tools you might already have.

With PandaDoc, you can breeze through the contract process, crafting and fine-tuning agreements in no time, then sending them off for signatures with a mere few clicks.

One of the standout features is how well PandaDoc integrates with other software, like CRM or billing tools, making it a versatile addition to your practice. It’s a good solution for firms that want to simplify their contract workflows without dealing with a steep learning curve.

Billing Software

Time tracking and billing is another tedious yet extremely important aspect of running a legal practice. You want every billable second to count, but without the right tool, things like time tracking, invoicing, and billing can easily add to your already piling to-do list.

Use one of these top three billing and accounting software instead:

11. LawPay

If you’re a law firm struggling with billing and payment processing, LawPay is likely your best bet. Its design is tailored to the legal profession, and it shows in the results. It’s fully compliant with legal ethics requirements, so you can trust that client funds are handled correctly.

With LawPay, you can easily send invoices, collect payments online, and keep tabs on your billing, all in one convenient, protected space.

12. FreshBooks

Small businesses and solo operators love FreshBooks, a straightforward billing and invoicing tool that lets them focus on what they do best. Imagine being able to create invoices, track time, and stay organized with expenses—all in one seamless workflow. That’s exactly what this powerful tool offers.

With FreshBooks, clients get their own portal where they can review invoices and pay online with no hassle. While its design doesn’t specifically cater to law firms, this billing software’s flexibility and simplicity have won its fans across the board.

13. LeanLaw

LeanLaw is billing software built for law firms, especially those using QuickBooks. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Online, so it’s easy to track time, generate invoices, and manage finances all in one place.

LeanLaw is designed to simplify the billing process and ensure that every billable minute is accounted for. It’s a great option for firms that want to streamline their billing while maintaining a clear overview of their financials.

Client Relationship Management Software

Building and maintaining strong client relationships is key to a successful law firm, and that’s where client relationship management (CRM) software comes in.

These tools help you keep track of client interactions, automate follow-ups, and make sure no potential client slips through the cracks. We’ve found one option specifically made for law firms:

14. Lawmatics

Lawmatics is a CRM designed specifically for law firms. Typically, CRM tools are a one-size-fits-all affair, but this one understands that law firms have unique demographics, hurdles, and priorities—and it rises to meet those challenges head-on.

Lawmatics helps you manage every stage of your client relationships, from the first contact to ongoing case management. One of the things that makes Lawmatics stand out is its automation of follow-ups, so you never lose track of a potential client.

From a single glance, you can see exactly where every lead and referral stands, making it simplicity itself to pinpoint opportunities and fine-tune your strategy. With this intuitive tool, you’ll find itinerant and frustrated clients transforming into happy loyalists in no time.

Document Management Software

Document management can be a real pain for law firms because they deal with a massive amount of sensitive documents that need to be securely stored, organized, and easily accessible.

Carefully handle confidential information, follow legal guidelines, and manage different versions of your work—it’s a tall order, especially without the right support.

So, here are two options you can try:

15. OneDrive

Whether you’re working on a project with teammates or just need to grab a file on the go, OneDrive makes it easy to stash and share your stuff.

Keeping your documents safe and sound is a top priority, and that’s exactly what OneDrive from Microsoft offers–a rock-solid storage option that puts your mind at ease. What’s nice about OneDrive is that you can access your files from anywhere, whether you’re in the office, at home, or on the go.

It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Office, so editing documents right in OneDrive is a breeze.

Plus, with Microsoft’s robust security features, you can rest easy knowing that your client information is safe. If your firm already uses Microsoft products, OneDrive is a no-brainer for managing your documents.

16. Dropbox

Dropbox is user-friendly, and it makes storing and sharing documents with your team or clients a snap. It also has a handy version history feature, so if you ever need to roll back to a previous version of a document, you can do it without any hassle.

Thanks to its compatibility with other tools, you can easily slot it into your current workflow and get back to being productive.

17. NetDocuments

Law firms and legal teams can now conquer document chaos with NetDocuments, a highly effective cloud-based management system designed specifically with their pain points in mind.

This tool combines three must-haves: bulletproof storage, version control, and effortless access from your laptop, phone, or tablet.

Task Management Tools

Keeping track of tasks and deadlines is crucial in a law firm, where missing a due date can have serious consequences. Using task management software means no more stressing about forgotten deadlines or overlooked tasks.

Want to breathe a little easier? Try one of these workload management solutions that have been battle-tested by firms just like yours.

18. Asana

Law firms, regardless of size, will find a reliable partner in Asana. This powerhouse lets you consolidate task creation, assignment, and tracking into one sleek, efficient package. A quick scan of the interface reveals exactly what you need to do and when, with no puzzle-solving required.

You can break down larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks, set priorities, and even integrate with other tools your firm might be using.

19. ClickUp

With ClickUp, you get a dynamic system that painlessly switches between simple task management and large-scale project planning. The best part? You can fit the tool to your style, whether that means turning tasks into lists, organizing projects on boards, or planning your day around calendars.

ClickUp also offers time tracking, document management, and collaboration features, making it a comprehensive solution for law firms. If your team needs flexibility and a variety of features, ClickUp is a great option to keep everything running smoothly.

20. Trello

Trello is known for its simplicity and ease of use. With tasks displayed on a visual board, you can shift your attention between what needs doing, what’s due soon, and what’s been wrapped up.

For teams seeking simplicity, the drag-and-drop interface is the answer. With its straightforward design, you can effortlessly arrange tasks and concentrate on achieving your goals.

21. Notion

Notion is more than just a task manager. It’s a flexible tool that combines task management with note-taking, document storage, and collaboration.

It’s perfect for law firms that need a central hub for all their information. Taking charge of your projects has never been easier: simply craft workflows that mirror your firm’s specific needs, prioritize tasks, and watch your productivity soar.

Why Modern Law Firms Choose Briefpoint

Running a law firm comes with its fair share of challenges, but the right software can make all the difference.

Whether you’re looking to streamline document creation, manage your practice more efficiently, or keep better track of your billable hours, these tools are designed to help you work smarter, not harder.

If you’re ready to save time and cut costs, it’s time to give Briefpoint a try. This tool can transform the way you handle discovery, making the process faster and easier than ever.

Why not see the benefits for yourself? Schedule a demo today and find out how much your firm can save with Briefpoint.

Save More Than Just Time 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 Solutions for Law Firms

Do I really need software for my law firm?

Yes, legal software helps manage your workload efficiently, reduces errors, and enhances client service, making it essential in today’s legal environment.

Is legal software expensive?

For small firms, the cost obstacle can be overcome with some relatively affordable choices available. Treat this as a smart business move to increase your firm’s productivity and efficiency.

Can I use multiple software programs together?

Absolutely! Many legal software tools are designed to integrate, allowing you to create a customized setup that suits your firm’s specific needs.

How do I choose the right software for my firm?

Pinpoint your company’s biggest holes and start plugging them. Look for software that meets those needs and take advantage of free trials to find the best fit before committing.

Is legal software difficult to learn?

Not at all! Most legal software is designed to be user-friendly with intuitive interfaces. Plus, many providers offer training and support to help you get up to speed quickly.

Can legal software grow with my firm?

Absolutely. As your firm expands, a good legal software solution should be able to keep pace, effortlessly handling increased caseloads and clients.

What if I need help with the software?

Most legal software providers, including Briefpoint, offer excellent customer support, including tutorials, help centers, and live chat, to assist you whenever you need it.

5 In-House Legal Software Every Law Firm Should Use

5 In-House Legal Software Every Law Firm Should Use

Types of Software In-House Legal Teams Need

1. Document Generation Tools

Top Pick: Briefpoint

2. Contract Management Software

Top Pick: Ironclad

3. Document Management Systems

Top Pick: NetDocuments

4. Matter Management Software

Top Pick: Clio

5. Legal Billing Tools

Top Pick: QuickBooks

Upgrade Your Productivity With the Right In-House Legal Software

Supplement Your In-House Legal Team With Briefpoint

FAQs About In-House Legal Software

Can small legal teams benefit from in-house legal software?

Is it secure to store sensitive legal documents in these systems?

Can in-house legal software integrate with other tools we use?

What other in-house legal software do law firms need?

6 Best Legal Software for Small Law Firms​

6 Best Legal Software for Small Law Firms

Factors to Consider When Choosing Tech for a Small Firm

Budget

Ease of Use

Cloud-based vs. On-premise

Security

Customer Support

Integrations

Scalability

6 Best Legal Software for Small Law Firms

1. Briefpoint: Discovery Document Automation

Key features:

Pros:

2. Clio: Legal Practice Management Software

Key Features:

Pros:

Cons:

3. MyCase: Case Management Software

Key features:

Pros:

Cons:

4. CosmoLex: Billing and Accounting Software

Key features:

Pros:

Cons:

5. NetDocuments: Document Management Software

Key features:

Pros:

Cons:

6. CloudLex: Matter Management Software

Key features:

Pros:

Cons:

Build Your Tech Stack With the Right Law Firm Software

Invest in Your Productivity With Briefpoint

FAQs About Legal Software for Small Firms

What’s the best small law firm software?

Is Briefpoint easy to use?

Can I use multiple legal software tools together?

5 Must-Have Litigation Software Tools for Lawyers

5 Must-Have Litigation Software Tools for Lawyers

What is Litigation Software?

5 Types of Litigation Software You Need

1. Litigation Management Software

Key features:

2. Document Management Software

Key features:

3. Discovery Document Automation Software

4. Legal Research Software

5. Legal Practice Management Software

Simplify Your Legal Workflow with Litigation Software

Make the Discovery Process More Cost-Effective With Briefpoint

FAQs About Litigation Software

What is litigation software?

What type of legal software do firms use?

What software is used for case management?

What Software Do Litigation Lawyers Use?

What Software Do Litigation Lawyers Use?

Types of Software Designed for Legal Professionals

6 Best Legal Software for Small Law Firms

How to Automate Legal Discovery In 2024 (Using AI)