How to Respond to Interrogatories, California

In California’s superior court system, responding to interrogatories in an unlimited civil case involves navigating a myriad of procedural rules and best practices.

Each answering party must ensure that the responding party permits the disclosure of all information that is reasonably available, relying on personal knowledge sufficient to provide complete and accurate responses.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to effectively managing interrogatory responses, including understanding deadlines, modifying response times, handling objections, and formatting responses.

It also emphasizes the importance of making a good faith effort to answer each question posed by the requesting party, even when full details may not yet be available.

By addressing the expectations of the asking party and reviewing the relevant provisions of the California Code of Civil Procedure and applicable case law, this guide helps clarify the intricacies involved in responding to interrogatories and supports a more informed, cooperative exchange of information throughout the process.

Interrogatory Obligations

Parties have an obligation to furnish all reasonably available information when responding to interrogatories, as required by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.220(a) and (c).

This includes information known by counsel or held by organizational parties, such as officers, employees, and former employees, as established in cases like Scheiding v. Dinwiddie Constr. Co., 69 Cal. App. 4th 64, 76 (1999).

If an interrogatory cannot be answered completely, it must be answered to the extent possible, in accordance with Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.220(b) and § 2030.240(a).

Drafting Interrogatory Responses

Responses to interrogatories should be formatted like court filings, with the case and court information, and include the name of the responding party, the propounding party, and the set number, as directed by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.210(b) and Cal. Rules of Ct., Rule 3.1000(a).

Each response should be numbered, complete, and straightforward. Objections must be stated clearly and specifically, as outlined in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.240(b).

Rules for Responding to Interrogatories

When answering an interrogatory, the response should be as complete and straightforward as possible, based on the information reasonably available to the responding party, as mandated by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.220(a) and established in cases like Hernandez v. Superior Ct., 112 Cal. App. 4th 285, 294 (2003).

Factually deficient interrogatory responses can shift the burden on summary judgment, as demonstrated in Cornell v. Berkeley Tennis Club, 18 Cal. App. 5th 908, 934 (2017).

Objection to Interrogatories

Valid objections may include compound, conjunctive, or disjunctive interrogatories, as prohibited by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.060(f); questions that are not self-contained, as specified in Catanese v. Superior Court, 46 Cal. App. 4th 1159, 1164 (1996); cumulative, duplicative, or unduly burdensome requests, as restricted by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §§ 2019.030 and 2030.090; irrelevant information, as defined by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §§ 2017.010, 2019.030, and 2030.010; requests exceeding the interrogatory limit, as established in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.030 et seq.; premature contention interrogatories, as cautioned in Judicial Council Form Interrogatories-General (Form DISC-001), Sec. 2(d); and requests seeking privileged or protected information, as detailed in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §§ 2018.020 et seq. and 2030.240(b), among others.

Client Verification

Interrogatory responses must be signed under oath by the party to whom they are directed and, if objections are included, by the party’s attorney, as required by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.250(a) and (c).

If the responding party is a corporation, partnership, association, or governmental agency, an officer or agent of the entity must verify the responses, as stated in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.250(b).

Serving the Interrogatories

Responses to interrogatories are served on the parties but not filed with the court unless relevant to a motion or other court hearing, according to Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.260 and Cal. Rules of Ct., Rule 3.250(a)(8).

They must be served within 30 days of service, along with proof of service, as outlined in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §§ 1013a, 1013b, and 2030.260(c).

Supplement Your Interrogatories

If a party determines that a prior interrogatory answer is incorrect or incomplete, they may serve an amended or supplemental answer, as allowed by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.310(a).

However, parties do not have an ongoing obligation to supplement their interrogatory responses, as highlighted in R & B Auto Ctr., Inc. v. Farmers Grp., Inc., 140 Cal. App. 4th 327, 358 (2006) and Biles v. Exxon Mobil Corp., 124 Cal. App. 4th 1315, 1325 (2004).

Deadline for Responding to Interrogatories

In general, parties must respond to interrogatories within 30 days of service, as mandated by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.260(a). However, the 30-day deadline may be extended depending on the method of service, as outlined in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §§ 1010.6, 1013, and 2016.050.

For electronic or overnight delivery, the extension is two court days. If the interrogatories were served by mail, the extension is five calendar days for in-state mail, ten calendar days for out-of-state mail, and twenty calendar days for international mail.

Asking for More Time

The deadline for responding to interrogatories may be shortened or extended through a court order or a stipulation between the parties, as provided by Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §§ 2030.260(a) and 2030.270.

Parties should generally grant first requests for extensions unless abused or time-sensitive, in line with professional courtesy and to avoid unnecessary requests for judicial intervention. A written stipulation specifying the new deadline is necessary and, unless stated otherwise, does not waive the objections of the responding party, according to Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.270(b) and (c).

If a stipulation cannot be reached, court approval is required under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.060(a).

Failing to Respond on Time

Failing to timely respond to interrogatories may result in waiving any objections or the right to produce documents in lieu of a narrative response, as stated in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.290(a).

However, the court may relieve the responding party from this waiver if they can demonstrate that their failure was due to mistake, inadvertence, or excusable neglect, and they have since provided a substantially compliant response, per Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 2030.290(a)(1) and (2).

Make Discovery Responses Easier With Briefpoint

Effectively responding to interrogatories in California requires adherence to specific procedural rules and a thorough understanding of best practices.

Whether addressing a particular interrogatory or reviewing an entire set, it’s important to provide a sufficient answer that reflects all reasonably available information.

A party should aim to respond immediately when possible, or at the very least, act within the required timeframes to avoid waiving objections or creating unnecessary complications.

By mastering these intricacies and referencing the California Code of Civil Procedure and relevant case law, professionals can manage interrogatory responses more efficiently and avoid costly delays.

Need a faster, more reliable way to handle your interrogatories? Use Briefpoint to draft, organize, and respond with confidence. Book your discovery call today!

FAQS About How to Respond to Interrogatories in California

How to respond to interrogatories in California?

To respond, the answering party must provide written answers under oath and serve them on the party propounding the interrogatories. Each answer must be labeled with the same identifying number as the corresponding interrogatory, and the response must include all information available through the answering party, their counsel, and any other natural persons under their control. The responses should be in writing, verified, and delivered within 30 days unless an extension applies.

What are acceptable responses to interrogatories?

Acceptable responses include a complete and straightforward answer, a valid objection, or the party’s option to produce writings in place of a narrative response if the information can be derived from documents. Each answer must be given with sufficient detail to fully address the corresponding interrogatory. If the answer refers to others’ knowledge, it must name the other natural persons involved and describe their relationship to the case.

What are the rules for interrogatories in California?

The California Code of Civil Procedure outlines the rules for interrogatories. Responses must be made under oath and separately for each identifying number, with objections stated clearly. Parties can only serve a limited number of specially prepared interrogatories unless granted permission otherwise. All responses must be served on the other party and not filed with the court unless used in a motion or hearing.

What if someone doesn’t answer interrogatories?

If a party fails to answer by the deadline, they may waive the right to object or produce writings instead of a narrative. The other party can file a motion to compel responses, and courts may impose sanctions. However, the court may relieve the answering party from these consequences if they later respond with sufficient detail and show that the failure was due to mistake, inadvertence, or excusable neglect.

Can a party object to every interrogatory?

While objections are allowed, they must be made in good faith and must clearly specify the grounds. Blanket objections or refusing to answer multiple questions without explanation are not acceptable. If objections are used, they must still follow the format rules, including matching the same identifying number and referencing the corresponding interrogatory.

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

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

7 Best Legal AI Companies of 2025

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

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

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

Artificial intelligence is profoundly impacting the legal profession, and we’re counting down the top legal AI companies driving this transformation in 2025.

Artificial Intelligence in the Legal Industry

When AI first entered legal practices, it wasn’t exactly met with enthusiasm.

Many legal professionals were hesitant. The thought of machines performing tasks traditionally handled by trained attorneys raised plenty of concerns.

There was a real fear that AI would threaten job security and compromise the precision that lawyers worked so hard to maintain. Some worried these tools would get lost in the nuance of legal language and overlook the human element entirely.

At the time, AI felt like a fleeting trend—too impersonal for such a people-centered profession.

But just a few years later, the outlook has shifted. Legal tech, particularly AI, has found its place in law firms, and its advantages are now tough to dismiss.

How AI Technology Benefits Legal Work

Legal AI is transforming how law firms get work done. If you’ve ever felt bogged down by endless research, slow processes, or repetitive tasks, AI might be the thing that changes your day-to-day.

Here’s how it’s helping legal teams like yours:

It speeds things up – AI can process massive amounts of data in seconds, letting you move through cases faster and focus on strategy.
It catches what you might miss – By spotting patterns and inconsistencies in documents, AI helps reduce errors that could slip through even the sharpest human review.
It cuts down your workload – Say goodbye to manually sorting documents or creating reports. AI automates the boring stuff so you don’t have to.
It makes legal research less painful – AI tools comb through case law, statutes, and precedents in seconds, giving you solid research in a fraction of the time.
It frees up your time – With the routine work handled, you get to focus on what really matters: clients, strategy, and big-picture thinking.
It helps you keep clients happy – Faster responses and stronger case support mean smoother client experiences, and better results.
It’s proven to work – Even firms that were skeptical at first are seeing major payoffs: better workflows, lower costs, and more efficient teams.

Bottom line? Legal AI isn’t here to replace your work. Rather, it’s here to make it smoother, smarter, and way less stressful.

7 Best AI-Powered Tools for Legal Teams

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

In 2025, there are dozens upon dozens of AI-powered tools in the legal sector. However, only a handful stand out:

1. Briefpoint

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book a demo to learn more!

2. Casetext

Casetext is a legal technology company that takes the pain out of traditional legal research by using advanced AI to make the process faster, smarter, and far less tedious.

Source: G2

Legal research has always been a time-consuming part of the job, but Casetext changes that. Using natural language processing, it understands the context of your queries and pulls relevant case laws, statutes, and regulations in seconds.

One of its most powerful features is CARA A.I., which reviews your uploaded briefs and instantly identifies case law you might have overlooked. That means stronger legal arguments, more confidence in your filings, and less second-guessing.

As more legal startups and established firms adopt AI to boost productivity, Casetext stands out for its precision and ease of use. Its search engine cuts through massive databases and returns exactly what you need, saving you hours of manual digging.

3. Luminance

Luminance uses advanced machine learning to take the stress out of document review and due diligence. It’s designed for legal teams that want faster, smarter ways to analyze contracts, flag risks, and stay ahead of regulatory compliance.

Source: Luminance.com

At its core, Luminance understands legal language. It reads through documents in seconds, highlights key information, and surfaces anything that might need a second look, which makes contract analysis much easier and far more accurate.

What makes it stand out? The platform learns as you go. As it processes more files, it adapts to your review style and gets better at spotting inconsistencies, red flags, and missing clauses. That means less time spent searching and more time acting on the insights.

Whether you’re deep into a high-stakes M&A or just trying to extract data from a stack of NDAs, Luminance helps you move quickly without sacrificing precision.

If your firm deals with a heavy contract load or complex compliance work, this is one AI-powered tool worth adopting.

4. LawToolBox

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

Source: LawToolBox.com

LawToolBox relieves pressure by handling legal deadline calculations. You can enter the case information, and LawToolBox will calculate all the critical dates and update your calendar accordingly. Busy lawyers need this feature to stay on top of looming deadlines and court dates.

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

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

5. Ironclad

Ironclad takes the weight off your shoulders by expertly managing every stage of the contract lifecycle to give you back valuable time and energy.

Source: G2

The goal is to make it easier and more efficient for legal teams to handle everything from creation and negotiation to execution and contract review.

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

6. Clio

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

Source: G2

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

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

7. Everlaw

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

Source: G2

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

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

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

Will AI Replace Legal Professionals?

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

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

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

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

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

Start Drafting Legal Documents With Ease

It’s tough to maintain quality when you’re buried in paperwork, especially during discovery.

For litigation teams, drafting Requests for Admission, Interrogatories, and Requests for Production can eat up hours you don’t have. It’s one of the most tedious parts of the process—and one of the easiest to automate.

Briefpoint makes it simple. Just upload the opposing counsel’s discovery document, add your objections and responses, and download a fully formatted version that is ready to sign and serve.

You can even use Briefpoint Bridge to collect responses from clients and plug them into your documents without all the follow-up.

Less time formatting means more time for strategy, client communication, and actual casework.

Want to see it in action? Book a demo and start saving hours on every document.

FAQs About Legal AI Companies

What is Legal AI?

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

How does AI benefit law firms?

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

Will AI replace lawyers?

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

What are some popular AI tools in the legal industry?

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

Is AI expensive for law firms to implement?

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

What is Motion To Compel? (Checklists and Guides)

Legal parties aren’t always cooperative. While the law might state they must supply information to you before a trial, they can be noncompliant.

These tactics are understandable, but they don’t always fall within the scope of the law. Parties may be breaching proper procedures and could face court sanctions, such as the imposition of legal fees or contempt of court charges where noncompliance persists.

Motion-to-compel tools are essential for ensuring justice. These assist with information discovery by getting the court to force the opposing side to release data pertinent to the case. Understanding how to use these effectively can thwart other parties and force them to submit legally required information.

When To File A Motion To Compel

Filing a discovery motion or motion to compel becomes necessary when the responding party fails to meet their discovery obligations. If you’re not getting the information you’re entitled to, and informal efforts haven’t worked, a motion to compel may be your next step.

Parties Are Unresponsive To Interrogatories

If the opposing side ignores your interrogatories or provides vague, incomplete answers, it can stall your case preparation.

Without proper responses, you’re left in the dark, unable to fully assess your position or build a solid strategy. This kind of noncompliance isn’t just frustrating; it can seriously jeopardize your client’s chances in court.

As the moving party, you’re asking the court to step in and require the other side to comply with the rules. A motion to compel makes it clear that discovery isn’t optional and that delays or evasions won’t be tolerated.

If the responding party fails to answer interrogatories or respond with valid legal objections, the court may order them to produce the information and, in some cases, impose sanctions for failing to meet their discovery obligations.

Parties Won’t Produce Documents

When the other party fails to provide requested documents, filing a motion to compel discovery responses may become unavoidable. This type of noncompliance can throw off the entire case timeline and affect the fairness of the proceedings.

Here’s why a motion may be necessary in these situations:

Missing documents can distort the facts – Without access to complete records, you’re working with half the story.
It delays case resolution – Waiting on paperwork from an uncooperative party slows everything down.
It undermines the discovery process – Parties are expected to respond honestly and thoroughly to all discovery responses.
It opens the door to misconduct – When one side withholds information, it gives them an unfair tactical advantage.
It weakens legal arguments – Without key documents, you may be unable to support your claims or defenses effectively.

If the other party refuses to comply even after informal efforts, the moving party can ask the court to order compliance. A well-drafted motion with clear legal arguments can push the court to act and protect the integrity of the process.

Parties Are Deliberately Obstructing Information Discovery

Sometimes, one party takes deliberate steps to stall or block the discovery process. This could involve making excessive objections, refusing to turn over documents, or generally disrupting attempts to gather relevant information.

In both civil and criminal discovery, these tactics can prevent a fair outcome and waste valuable time.

If a non-complying party is intentionally obstructing the process, filing a motion to compel may be the only way to move forward.

But before doing so, courts often require good faith efforts to resolve disputes—this means reaching out to the other side, attempting to work things out, and documenting your efforts.

You’ll typically need to include a separate statement detailing each disputed item, your attempts to resolve the issue, and why the information is relevant. You’ll also need to request a hearing date with the court so both sides can present their positions.

For example, if an attorney refuses to produce financial records after repeated requests, claiming irrelevant privilege with no legal support, a motion to compel, supported by a clear paper trail, can pressure them to comply or risk court sanctions.

How To File A Motion To Compel

If the opposing side isn’t cooperating or you suspect they’re hiding crucial evidence, you may need to file a motion to compel. It’s a way for the requesting party to ask the court to enforce compliance with the requested discovery, especially when the other side is avoiding their responsibilities.

But this process isn’t automatic; it requires careful steps to stay within procedural rules. Here’s what to do:

Meet And Confer With The Opposing Party

Before taking your issue to court, you’re expected to try resolving it informally. That means reaching out to the opposing side to meet and confer. This step shows the court that the requesting party made good faith efforts to work things out without legal intervention.

You should clearly address the missing discovery materials, explain what’s incomplete or missing from all the responses, and request timely correction. Be sure to document this meeting thoroughly; include the date, the topics discussed, and any follow-up communication.

Courts often won’t consider a motion to compel unless you’ve attempted to resolve the issue first. This step is your foundation for showing the court you’ve done your part before asking for formal enforcement.

Prepare Your Motion To Compel

If parties still fail to comply with your discovery requests, you should prepare a motion to compel. Ensure you follow established formats to avoid confusion or rejection for failing to provide the correct information.

A motion to compel contains:

The name of the court
The docket number
The names, addresses, and details of the parties involved
A summary of the case that provides context
A list of discovery requests that the opposing party did not comply with
A list of accompanying reasons explaining any non-compliance
Reasons why the court should support discovery

The last element is critical. Courts will only issue a motion to compel if you can provide reasonable cause for the opposing party to comply with your request.

Acceptable reasons courts may accept include things like:

Failure to release medical records relevant to a case
Failure to supply expert deposition questions
Getting in the way of discovery by abusing the rules of conventional legal proceedings to cause delay or incur higher costs on the opposing party
Failure to take part in depositions
Failure to supply documents relevant to the case

The more accurate you can make your objective, the more likely the court will grant your motion to compel. Whatever reason you choose must align with the circumstances of the case.

Serve The Motion

After the party files the motion to compel, the court begins reviewing the request and evaluating any objections raised by the other side. This is a critical part of the legal process, especially during the discovery phase, where access to complete information can shape the outcome of a case.

You can typically serve the motion electronically, as most courts accept e-filing. That said, some jurisdictions may still allow or require physical copies. No matter the method, you must serve a copy to the opposing party’s law office to keep the process fair and transparent.

During this stage, both parties may have the opportunity to present arguments. The court will review the facts and decide whether the motion is justified.

If the court rules in your favor, it may not only order the production of documents or answers. It could also require the opposing side to pay attorney’s fees for forcing the motion.

Serving the motion properly and on time keeps your case on track and helps avoid unnecessary delays or dismissals.

Go To The Hearing

If the opposing party still refuses to comply after being served, you may need to appear before a judge. A hearing allows both sides to present their case, and the judge will decide whether the court’s intervention is necessary to compel compliance.

At this stage, the requesting party must show that they made a good-faith attempt to resolve the issue outside of court. This typically includes proof of your confer efforts with opposing counsel, where you tried to settle the dispute without involving the court. Documentation of emails, call summaries, or letters can support this.

In some jurisdictions, you may need to file two separate motions—one addressing the failure to respond and another requesting sanctions. Make sure your formal request is clear and tied to the original propounded discovery, showing exactly what was not answered and why it matters to the case.

The hearing is your chance to explain why the court should step in. If successful, the judge may order the other side to respond fully.

Defending Against A Motion To Compel

However, sometimes, you will be on the receiving end of a motion to compel. When this happens, you may find yourself being asked to provide information that conflicts with your clients’ rights or falls outside of the purview of the case.

Fortunately, you can also defend against these motions, helping to protect your client against unjustified intrusions. Here’s what to do:

Talk To The Opposing Party

As described above, one option is to “meet and confer” with the opposing party. Talking to them can sometimes help you resolve the issue without going through any formal court procedures.

When meeting with the other side, record all relevant information, including talking points and any agreements reached.

Identify Objections

Review the motion carefully. The requested discovery may be too broad, not relevant, or even protected under privilege. You’re entitled to object, but those objections must be clear, legal, and well-supported.

This is where tools like Briefpoint can help. Briefpoint uses artificial intelligence to analyze propounded discovery and suggest well-grounded objections based on similar case law.

It speeds up the process by highlighting legal issues, offering suggested language, and even allowing you to insert objections into documents with a click. You can also customize responses or use pre-built templates to align with your case strategy.

Once your objections are finalized, file them with the court along with any necessary declarations. If the court agrees, it may deny or limit the motion to compel, helping you protect sensitive or irrelevant information.

Carefully Read The Motion

Before you respond, take time to carefully read the motion to compel. Don’t skim—go line by line. Understanding exactly what the propounding party is asking for can help you craft a more focused and accurate response.

Sometimes, the language in a motion can make it seem like they’re asking for invasive or overly broad requested information, but a closer read may reveal something more limited or specific. Misunderstanding the scope could lead to unnecessary concessions or weak objections.

Look closely at how the motion aligns with civil procedure rules. Are they citing the right statutes? Did they include all required supporting documentation? Has the motion been filed correctly and timely?

AI tools can speed up this review. They can flag overbroad language, missing context, or irrelevant demands, helping you respond with stronger objections. Some platforms even let you click to insert objections directly into a verified response, saving time and reducing the risk of error.

File Your Response

Once you’ve reviewed the motion and prepared your objections, it’s time to formally respond.

File your response with the court, explaining why the motion to compel is improper or why the requested information falls outside the bounds of discovery rules. Your documentation should be clear, well-organized, and backed by legal reasoning.

Be sure to include all necessary attachments, such as a declaration detailing your informal resolution efforts, any prior correspondence with the other party, and other evidence, such as a service form confirming that your response was properly served on opposing counsel.

If the court schedules a hearing, make sure you attend. Showing up gives you the chance to explain your objections directly and reinforce why an order compelling further discovery isn’t warranted. Skipping it means losing your opportunity to be heard.

Be Prepared To Compromise

Finally, you may need to compromise with the opposing party to avoid going to court in some cases. This tactic might involve disclosing some information while protecting other sensitive data.

Automate the Discovery Process Without Waste

A motion to compel can either move your case forward or put you on the defensive. Whether you’re filing one or responding to it, understanding the legal process, meeting all procedural requirements, and presenting strong arguments are key to protecting your client’s interests during the discovery phase.

But handling discovery disputes doesn’t have to drain your time.

Briefpoint can help you draft discovery responses, identify valid objections, and manage supporting documentation; all in minutes, not hours. Its AI-powered platform is built for lawyers who want to save time without sacrificing precision.

Want to handle discovery smarter? Try Briefpoint and take the hassle out of motions to compel.

FAQs About What is a Motion to Compel

What is the purpose of a motion to compel?

A motion to compel is used to ask the court to require a party to provide discovery responses or documents they’ve failed to produce. It ensures both sides follow the rules during the discovery phase and prevents one party from withholding relevant information.

Is a motion to compel a bad thing?

Not necessarily. It’s a legal tool to resolve discovery disputes. While receiving one might feel confrontational, it’s often part of the normal back-and-forth in litigation. Filing or responding to a motion to compel is about keeping the process fair and moving forward.

What happens if someone ignores a motion to compel?

If a party ignores a motion to compel and the court grants it, they may be ordered to comply and possibly pay sanctions, including the other party’s attorney’s fees. Continued refusal could lead to harsher consequences, like being held in contempt of court.

What does “compel” mean in legal terms?

To “compel” in legal terms means to request the court’s authority to force a party to act, typically to provide evidence, answer questions, or comply with a discovery request. It’s about requiring legal compliance when cooperation breaks down.

21 Best 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 on 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 review the best software programs for law firms per category. We’re about to get up close and personal with what they offer and why you should give them serious thought.

Why Use Legal Software?

Before we get into the top legal software programs of 2025, 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 involves tasks that can take up your day, such as drafting documents, scheduling meetings, and handling invoices. Doing these manually is a time drain and a huge hurdle to ideal time management.

Legal software automates these routine jobs and lets 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 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 many 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 case updates. Thanks to law firm 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 office, 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

Legal document automation software is a real lifesaver if you’re buried under a mountain of paperwork. No more starting from scratch!

These document assembly 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.

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
Briefpoint automatically collects your clients’ responses and objects to each request
You download your document and apply the finishing touches in MS Word

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.

Now, with the new Propound Discovery feature, you can upload a complaint (in .pdf format), and Briefpoint will use the information to draft a set of interrogatories, requests for the production of documents (RFPs), and requests for admission (RFAs).

With this feature, instead of focusing solely on answers to discovery questions, you can use Briefpoint to create the discovery questions you need. Once generated, you can edit, reorder, remove, and add new questions and download the request as a file.

Book your demo today!

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 a suitable 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 or project 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 sets this system apart is its ability to adapt to your firm’s 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 mainly 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 anyone practicing law. It offers a vast database of legal information that’s easy to access. Whether you’re digging into case law or statutes or just need the latest legal news, FindLaw can be a useful 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 you might have missed.

It’s like having a second set of eyes on your research that makes 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 vital 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 examine 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. This system rallies and shapes the contracts into a 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 a steep learning curve.

Legal Billing Software

Time tracking and billing are another tedious yet critical 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 monitor 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 creating invoices, tracking time, and staying organized with expenses—all in one seamless workflow. That’s exactly what this powerful tool offers.

With FreshBooks, clients get a 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 fans.

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 great tools with document management functionality:

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.

FAQs About Software Solutions for Law Firms

What software do most law firms use?

Most law firms use a combination of tools for managing cases, billing, documents, and client relationships. Popular options include practice management software like Clio, MyCase, or PracticePanther—tools that help organize schedules, communications, and billing all in one place. Many also rely on document management systems such as NetDocuments, OneDrive, or Dropbox to securely store and organize legal files. Many of these tools offer a free trial so firms can explore what works best before committing.

What type of computer applications do most law firms use?

Law firms typically use applications for case management, billing, legal research, document automation, and document management. Microsoft Office remains a staple for everyday tasks, while legal-specific software like Briefpoint (for discovery documents) or LawPay (for billing) provides more targeted functionality. Combining these tools helps firms save time and follow best practices in managing their operations efficiently.

What is the best ERP system for law firms?

While traditional ERP systems are more common in large enterprises, law firms often look for ERP-style solutions built specifically for legal work. Platforms like Clio or Zola Suite come close, offering integrated features for billing, accounting, case management, and reporting. These are considered best practice management software because they centralize core functions, helping firms run smoothly while maintaining compliance. Some even offer a free trial so firms can explore the features firsthand.

What is CRM for law firms?

CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software for law firms helps track and manage client interactions, automate follow-ups, and organize leads. Unlike general-purpose CRMs, legal CRMs like Lawmatics are designed with lawyers in mind—they integrate with document management systems, scheduling tools, and email, making it easier to stay connected and responsive. Using a CRM is a best practice for firms focused on improving client retention and streamlining intake. Most providers offer a free trial so you can test how it fits your workflow

New Technology for Law Firms: Legal Tech Trends of 2025

Law firms aren’t working the way they used to—and that’s a good thing.

The old playbook of paper-heavy processes and manual workflows is being replaced with smarter, faster, and more connected systems. What once passed as efficient now slows firms down, especially with clients expecting speed, transparency, and digital convenience.

In 2025, top-performing firms are turning to legal tech not just to cut down on admin work but to rethink how legal services are delivered. From AI-driven research tools to automated discovery and virtual support, new technology is reshaping legal practice from the ground up.

Here’s a closer look at the tools and trends modern law firms are embracing and how they can help your team work smarter.

New Tech for the Legal Industry

If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, here’s a breakdown of the top legal technology trends shaping the industry in 2025.

1. Automation

Automation isn’t exactly new in the legal world. But what’s changing is how much smarter and more targeted it’s getting. It’s no longer just about filling out templates or flagging errors. Now, you can automate some of the most time-consuming parts of your workflow, like discovery.

Take Briefpoint as a prime example. If you’re still manually drafting responses to discovery requests, you’re spending hours on something that could take minutes.

Briefpoint automates the prep of discovery request and response documents, so you can stop getting bogged down in repetitive tasks and focus on the work that actually moves your cases forward. You simply have to upload your discovery document, and Briefpoint’s AI will do most of the routine tasks.

Even better? With Briefpoint Bridge, you can send clients plain-English versions of interrogatories, collect their answers, and plug them right into your docs—no back-and-forth, no confusion, no wasted time.

If you want to learn more about Briefpoint, book your demo today!

2. Legal Case Management Software

Legal case management software brings your documents, deadlines, billing, and communication into one place. This makes it easier to stay on top of various legal processes without getting buried in busywork.

By reducing administrative tasks, these platforms help enhance productivity across your team. You’ll spend less time tracking down case details and more time focusing on the legal work that matters.

Here are a few tools many firms are using today:

Clio: A cloud-based solution that covers case tracking, secure communication, and billing—all designed to keep your firm running efficiently from anywhere.
MyCase: Combines case management and client engagement tools in one user-friendly system, streamlining everyday workflows and helping you stay organized.
Smokeball: Focuses on automation and customization, offering tools for managing administrative tasks while adapting to the needs of different practice areas.

If your firm is juggling too many disconnected systems, case management software can give you more control and clarity without adding to your workload.

3. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming the engine behind smarter automation in law firms. While automation handles repetitive tasks, AI takes it further—learning from data, adapting to patterns, and making informed decisions in real time.

In practice, that means AI isn’t just doing things faster. It’s doing them more intelligently. It can sift through thousands of pages of legal text, flag risks in contracts, highlight case law, and even predict likely outcomes based on precedent.

These capabilities are already transforming areas like litigation prep, regulatory reviews, and document analysis.

Thomson Reuters points out that AI is helping legal professionals reduce risk while making better decisions—something traditional automation alone can’t achieve. It’s not about replacing human judgment but improving how quickly and confidently that judgment can be made.

If your firm is already using automation for basic workflows, AI is the next step. Even small implementations, like using it for contract reviews or legal research, can help reduce bottlenecks and free up time for more complex legal work.

4. Litigation Management

Litigation moves fast, and without the right systems in place, it’s easy to fall behind. Between tracking deadlines, managing evidence, and keeping your team aligned, the process can get messy fast. Litigation management software helps bring order to the chaos.

These platforms are built to support every phase of a case. They centralize document management, make team communication easier, and even support case law research when you’re preparing for court or building arguments.

That means everything is accessible in one secure environment, which reduces the back-and-forth and helps your team stay focused.

Here are a few widely used solutions:

Casepoint: Offers legal hold, data collection, and AI-powered analytics to help manage complex cases more effectively.
Logikcull: Streamlines investigations and discovery with drag-and-drop uploads, advanced search, and secure collaboration tools.
Everlaw: Blends document review, real-time collaboration, and smart search tools to help legal teams move through litigation efficiently.

5. Virtual Legal Assistants

Virtual Legal Assistants (VLAs) are becoming a practical support tool for law firms looking to reduce administrative burdens.

Powered by AI, these assistants handle everyday tasks like scheduling, reminders, time tracking, and basic client communication—tasks that often take up more time than they should.

VLAs operate around the clock and can manage multiple conversations or tasks at once, helping firms stay responsive without overloading staff. They’re especially useful for solo practitioners or small teams that don’t have the resources for full-time administrative support.

What sets VLAs apart is their ability to learn from interactions. Over time, they can adapt to a firm’s preferences, respond more accurately to client needs, and support smoother workflows.

For law firms looking to stay efficient without compromising on client service, virtual legal assistants are a smart, low-lift way to modernize daily operations.

6. Identity Management

Identity management has become a crucial legal tech trend in recent years, emphasizing the secure management of digital identities, sensitive data, and access controls within law firms.

By employing advanced solutions that handle user authentication, access rights, and activity monitoring, law firms are better equipped to detect and prevent unauthorized access to legal data.

Integrating biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprint scanning and facial recognition, offers a more secure alternative to traditional password systems.

Aside from increasing the security of legal documents and data, identity management software makes the client onboarding process smoother and more efficient.

Companies with emerging technologies in identity management software include:

Okta: Offers a comprehensive identity and access management solution tailored for organizations, including law firms. Their platform facilitates secure, single sign-on access to a wide array of applications, enhancing security through multi-factor authentication (MFA) and adaptive security policies.
OneLogin: Provides a unified access management system that is particularly beneficial for law firms needing to manage and secure employee and client access to legal applications and data. It features strong authentication, single sign-on, and user management capabilities.
LastPass: Provides identity and access management solutions with a focus on password management and secure sharing of credentials and sensitive data within organizations, including law firms.

7. Client Data Protection

If you’re handling sensitive legal information, data protection isn’t optional—it’s expected. Clients trust you with confidential details, and any breach can seriously damage that trust and your firm’s reputation.

Modern data protection goes beyond firewalls and passwords. Law firms are now using advanced technologies to secure files, manage access, and detect threats before they become real problems. Here are a few areas to focus on:

End-to-end encryption – Protects emails, messages, and documents in transit and at rest so only intended recipients can access them.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) – Adds a layer of identity verification to stop unauthorized access, even if passwords are compromised.
Secure client portals – Lets clients upload or access documents without relying on risky email exchanges.
Data loss prevention (DLP) – Helps monitor and control how sensitive information moves in and out of your system.
Real-time threat detection – Uses AI to identify suspicious activity and stop breaches before they happen.

Keeping client data secure isn’t just about compliance; it’s about doing right by your clients. And with today’s tools, it’s easier to build strong, secure systems that support both privacy and productivity.

8. Smart Legal Contract Management

Smart legal contract management leverages blockchain technology to redefine the dynamics of drafting, executing, and enforcing legal agreements.

By embedding contract terms directly into code, smart contracts automate contract negotiation processes when predetermined conditions are met, thereby eliminating the need for manual intervention and making the whole process faster.

This legal technology minimizes the ambiguity and disputes that often come with traditional contracts. Moreover, this level of automation and security is particularly appealing for law firms that often deal with complex transactions, where the precise execution of contractual obligations is crucial.

9. Advanced Computing

Legal work generates an overwhelming amount of data. Advanced computing, especially technologies like quantum computing and AI-driven analytics, is opening the door to faster, deeper insights from that data.

While still emerging, these technologies are beginning to support legal teams in ways that weren’t possible just a few years ago. If your firm wants to stay competitive, it’s worth understanding what’s on the horizon.

Here’s how advanced computing is starting to impact the legal field:

High-speed data analysis – Breaks down massive datasets in seconds, helping with legal research, contract analysis, and due diligence.
Predictive analytics – Uses historical data to assess risk, model potential outcomes, and guide litigation strategy.
Natural language processing (NLP) – Makes it easier to search across case law, statutes, or internal documents using plain-language queries.
Real-time legal research support – Offers faster, more context-aware search results with fewer irrelevant hits.
Fraud detection and compliance tracking – Flags anomalies in transaction records or client activity using machine learning models.

You don’t need a quantum lab to benefit from these advances. Many of them are already being integrated into legal tech. Understanding what they offer now can help you make smarter decisions moving forward.

10. Immersive Technology

Immersive technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), are beginning to make waves in the legal field.

These technologies can be used for a variety of applications, such as recreating crime scenes in VR to aid in evidence presentation or employing AR for enhanced document examination.

VR or AR can help train legal departments by simulating various scenarios and legal environments. Lawyers can also use this legal tech to conduct negotiations without needing to meet face-to-face.

VR and AR are not new, but they are among the best legal technology trends as legal departments are seeing the benefits of using them. Here are several companies that cater to law firms looking for this tech:

LegalVerse: Enables lawyers to create and navigate through 3D recreations of crime scenes, accident sites, or any relevant physical space for a case, providing a more engaging and comprehensive way to present evidence and case scenarios to clients or in court.
CourtroomVR: Specializes in virtual reality solutions tailored for the legal industry, providing a unique way for lawyers to present cases and evidence. Their platform allows legal professionals to create immersive, 3D simulations of courtroom scenarios, evidence presentations, and witness testimonies.
vLex Justis: Overlays digital information onto the physical world, allowing lawyers to interact with legal materials dynamically and engagingly.

Top Legal Trends to Watch Out For in 2025

The legal field is changing faster than ever, and not just because of new tools. Law firms are rethinking how they deliver legal services, manage teams, and respond to rising client expectations.

In 2025, the trends to watch go beyond software—they reflect a shift in how modern legal work gets done. Here’s what’s shaping the future of law this year:

AI adoption with human oversight – More firms are using AI but pairing it with human review to maintain accuracy and trust.
Alternative fee arrangements (AFAs) – Clients are pushing for flat fees and value-based pricing over billable hours.
Focus on mental health and burnout – Legal teams are investing in better work-life balance and support systems.
Flexible and remote work structures – Hybrid work is now the norm, with firms adapting policies to retain talent.
Proactive compliance support – Firms are helping clients prevent legal issues, not just respond to them.
DEI accountability – Diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are shifting from statements to measurable action.

The most competitive firms in 2025 won’t just use better tech. They’ll think differently about how they serve clients, manage teams, and structure their businesses.

Make Discovery an Efficient Process With Document Automation

Document automation for lawyers was one of the most significant legal technology trends of 2024. Unsurprisingly, more law firms are seeing the benefits and hopping on the trend this year.

Let Briefpoint make the discovery process a breeze. With this tool, you can automate the preparation of discovery response and request documents, such as:

Requests for Admission
Requests for Production
Interrogatories

Plus, Briefpoint Bridge takes the hassle out of collecting client responses. With Bridge, you can send interrogatories to your clients in plain English and then plug their responses directly into your document.

Discovery is one of the biggest bottlenecks in the legal process. Book a demo today and see how Briefpoint can make this phase a lot less time-consuming.

FAQs About New Technology For Law Firms

What is the biggest challenge facing law firms today?

One of the biggest challenges facing the legal profession today is managing rising client expectations while maintaining efficiency and profitability. Firms must balance quality service, data security, and faster turnaround times—often with limited resources and growing competition.

How will technology change in the future for lawyers?

Technology will continue to evolve toward smarter automation, AI-assisted research, and real-time collaboration. Future legal tech tools will help lawyers make data-driven decisions, reduce manual tasks, and better protect sensitive client data, ultimately allowing more time for strategic work and client engagement.

What software do law firms use?

Law firms use a range of legal tech tools, including case management software, document automation, time tracking, e-billing platforms, and secure client portals. These tools help streamline operations, manage caseloads, and protect sensitive client data.

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20 Must-Have Apps for Lawyers in 2025

Legal work moves fast. Deadlines stack up, inboxes fill quickly, and there’s always another document to review. If it feels like too much time is spent on admin and not enough on actual legal work, it might be time to rethink how you’re working.

You don’t need more tools—just the right ones. Apps that make it easier to track time, manage documents, handle discovery, or stay on top of your schedule without bouncing between ten different platforms.

Here’s a list of 20 apps that can actually help. They’re practical, easy to use, and fit well into the day-to-day work of a modern legal professional. If you’re looking to cut down on busywork and stay more organized, these are worth a look.

What Are Legal Apps?

Legal apps are tools, usually mobile or desktop apps, that help lawyers and law firms get their work done faster and more easily.

Think of them as digital assistants that can handle everything from taking notes and tracking billable hours to organizing case files and even helping with client communication.

If you’re tired of juggling emails, deadlines, and paperwork, legal apps can take some of that pressure off. Some are built just for legal work (like case management or document automation), while others are general productivity apps that fit into legal workflows pretty well.

Either way, they’re here to make your day smoother and your workload more manageable.

How Can These Apps Benefit Law Firms and Legal Professionals?

Legal apps help you spend less time on routine tasks and more time focusing on real legal work. They bring everything into one place so you’re not switching between notebooks, calendars, and filing cabinets all day.

Here’s how they can help:

Save time – Automate repetitive tasks like billing, document formatting, and scheduling.
Stay organized – Keep notes, deadlines, and case files in one place and accessible across devices.
Work from anywhere – Access your work from your phone, tablet, or laptop, whether you’re in the office or at court.
Improve communication – Chat with your team, share updates, and avoid long email threads.
Track billable hours – Use time-tracking tools to log your work and make invoicing easier.
Protect client data – Many apps follow legal security standards, offering encryption and secure file storage.

If you’ve ever felt like your to-do list is running the show, these tools can help you take back control. Of course, they won’t replace your legal expertise, but they can take a lot off your plate.

20 Best Apps For Lawyers

There are tons of tools out there, but not all of them are built with lawyers in mind. We’ve rounded up some of the most useful apps—both legal-specific and general productivity tools—that actually make a difference in your day-to-day work.

Whether you’re solo or part of a big firm, these apps can help you stay organized, save time, and get more done.

1. Briefpoint

If you’re spending hours drafting responses to discovery requests, Briefpoint can help you cut that down to minutes. It’s an AI-powered tool built specifically for lawyers who deal with requests for admission, production, and interrogatories.

Instead of formatting each response manually, Briefpoint handles the heavy lifting so you can focus on the more valuable parts of discovery and litigation.

It doesn’t just save time—it helps you avoid mistakes, keep your language consistent, and work more efficiently with your clients. The interface is simple, and it fits easily into your current workflow without needing to switch between a dozen different tools.

Key Features:

AI-powered drafting – Helps you respond to discovery requests faster using your preferred legal language
Customizable templates – Build and reuse templates that match your firm’s style and standards
Client-friendly format – Breaks down legal jargon so clients can give you the input you need
Easy integration – Works with your current case management system for smoother collaboration
Saves time and money – Cuts drafting time by up to 90%, freeing you up for higher-value work

Want to learn how Briefpoint can fit into your workflow? Book a demo today!

2. Evernote

Evernote is a simple note-taking app that helps you keep everything in one place—case notes, meeting summaries, to-do lists, and even voice memos. You can tag, search, and organize your notes into notebooks, which helps make it easy to find what you need fast.

Key Features:

Syncs across all your devices
Supports text, audio, and image notes
Lets you organize notes with tags and folders
Built-in search to quickly find anything you’ve saved

3. Clio

Clio is a legal practice management software built just for lawyers. It helps you handle everything from case files and billing to client communication, all in one place.

Whether you’re running a solo practice or managing a team, Clio keeps things organized and easy to access.

Key Features:

Manage cases, documents, and contacts in one dashboard
Track billable hours and create invoices
Secure client portal for sharing updates and files
Integrates with tools like Outlook, Zoom, and Dropbox
Available on desktop and mobile for working on the go

4. OneDrive

OneDrive is a great app for document management, especially if you’re already using Microsoft Office. It lets you store, access, and share files securely from anywhere, even on mobile phones.

You can keep your legal documents backed up and organized without digging through email threads or USB drives.

Key Features:

Cloud storage with automatic syncing
Easy sharing with clients and coworkers
Built-in integration with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Accessible on mobile phones, tablets, and desktops

5. Google Docs

Google Docs is a simplistic tool, but that’s part of what makes it so useful. It’s quick to open, easy to use, and perfect for drafting documents with other lawyers or clients. You can leave comments, track changes, and never worry about hitting “save.”

Key Features:

Real-time editing and collaboration
Automatic saving to Google Drive
Easy sharing with access control
Works across devices with a simple interface

6. Clockify

Clockify is a simple time-tracking app that helps you log billable hours without much setup. It’s great for solo lawyers or small teams who want something quick and easy. You can track time by client, case, or task and generate clean reports when it’s time to bill.

That said, it may be too simple for larger law firms that need more advanced billing features or deep integrations.

Key Features:

One-click timer or manual time entry
Tag time by client, case, or task
Generate detailed reports
Works on mobile, web, and desktop

7. Adobe Reader

Adobe Reader is a must-have since many legal documents come in PDF form. It allows quick viewing, highlighting, commenting, and signing without printing anything.

Legal professionals can easily review and send documents while keeping everything digital and organized.

Key Features:

Open and annotate PDF files
Fill out and e-sign forms
Compatible with desktop and mobile
Smooth integration with other Adobe tools

8. Grammarly

Grammarly helps catch grammar errors, awkward phrasing, and tone issues before anything is sent out. In the legal industry, clear writing matters, and this tool makes it easier to get things right the first time.

Plus, it works in email, documents, and even web browsers, helping improve productivity across the board.

Key Features:

Real-time grammar and spell check
Tone suggestions and clarity feedback
Works in Google Docs, email, and browsers
Custom settings for formal or professional writing

9. Dropbox

Dropbox is a reliable file storage app widely used in the legal profession for sharing and organizing documents. It offers free storage to get started and makes accessing files from any device simple.

Dropbox also plays well with other apps, so it’s easy to plug into your existing workflow.

Key Features:

Cloud storage with file syncing across devices
Easy file sharing with permission controls
Works with tools like Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Office
Accessible on desktop, mobile, and web

10. Zapier

Zapier is a great tool for busy lawyers who want to cut down on repetitive tasks. It connects different apps and lets them work together automatically.

For example, you can set it up so that every time you receive a signed document in Dropbox, it gets copied to a case folder in Google Drive, and you get an email alert—without doing anything manually.

By setting up these “Zaps” (which are basically if-this-then-that rules), you can streamline workflows and save a lot of time. It works with thousands of apps, so chances are it fits right into how you already work.

Key Features:

Automates tasks between apps like Gmail, Google Docs, Clio, and Dropbox
No coding needed; just set the trigger and the action
Helps manage documents, alerts, and client updates automatically
Saves time by reducing manual, repetitive work

11. Slack

Slack is a messaging app that helps legal teams communicate quickly without getting buried in emails. You can set up channels for different cases or departments and keep all your conversations organized. It’s easy to share files, ask quick questions, and get real-time updates.

The app works smoothly on both computers and mobile devices, so it’s easy to stay in touch, even outside the office.

Key Features:

Organized messaging with channels and direct messages
File sharing and searchable message history
Works on desktop and mobile devices
Integrates with tools like Google Drive, Zoom, and Calendly

12. Penultimate

Penultimate is a handwriting app made for tablets. It’s perfect for lawyers who prefer jotting down notes by hand but still want to keep everything digital. It lets you sketch, write, and mark things up just like on paper—then sync it all to Evernote for easy access later.

Key Features:

Handwritten notes on your tablet
Smooth integration with Evernote
Simple layout with customizable notebooks
Great for meetings, hearings, or quick ideas on the go

13. Toggl Track

Toggl Track is a clean, user-friendly time-tracking app that’s great for lawyers managing multiple clients or tasks. It keeps things simple while still offering useful features like reports and billable hour tracking.

By allowing users to tag entries by project or case, it helps make sense of where time is being spent.

Key Features:

One-click timers and manual time entry
Tag time logs by client, matter, or task
Clear, easy-to-read reports
Works across desktop, mobile, and browser extensions

14. Zoom

Zoom is a go-to video conferencing tool that makes it extremely easy to hold virtual meetings with clients, coworkers, or even courts. It’s especially useful for remote teams or firms working across different time zones.

The platform also offers mobile apps, so joining a call from your phone is just as smooth as on your computer.

Key Features:

High-quality video and audio calls
Scheduling with built-in time zone support
Screen sharing, chat, and recording options
Available on mobile apps and desktop platforms

15. Dictate+Connect

Dictate+Connect is a voice recording app built for professionals who need to dictate on the go. It’s especially handy for lawyers who want to draft memos, case notes, or letters without typing. Recordings can be saved, organized, and sent directly to your assistant or transcription service.

Key Features:

High-quality voice recording
Easy file management and sharing
Supports multiple audio formats
Works offline and syncs when you’re back online

16. Feedly

Feedly is a smart news reader that helps lawyers stay updated on legal trends, case law, and industry news, all in one place. You can follow blogs, court updates, news sites, and even YouTube channels, then read them in a clean, organized feed.

It’s a great way to cut down on time spent checking multiple websites. Feedly also lets you group your sources into categories, so you can quickly scan updates on specific topics like litigation, privacy law, or tech news whenever you have a free minute.

Key Features:

Follow legal blogs, court updates, and news sites
Organize content into custom categories
Read articles in a distraction-free layout
Works on web and mobile devices
Share articles directly with your team or save them for later
Can help supplement legal research

17. LastPass

LastPass is a secure password manager that helps legal professionals keep their login information safe and organized. Instead of writing down passwords or reusing the same ones, you can store them all in one secure vault. Just remember one master password, and LastPass handles the rest.

It’s a smart way to protect sensitive client data and save time when jumping between tools.

Key Features:

Stores and autofills passwords across websites and apps
Generates strong, unique passwords
Offers secure password sharing for teams
Works on browsers, mobile apps, and desktop devices

18. Calendly

Calendly takes the back-and-forth out of scheduling by letting others book time with you based on your availability. It’s helpful for lawyers managing client meetings, and it’s also a good tool for law students coordinating study groups or interviews.

The app works smoothly on desktop, Apple, and Android devices, which makes it easy to manage your schedule from anywhere.

Key Features:

Lets others book meetings based on your open time slots
Sends automatic email reminders and calendar invites
Integrates with Google Calendar, Outlook, and Zoom
Works on Android devices, iOS, and desktop platforms

19. Asana

Asana helps law firms keep work moving without things slipping through the cracks. It’s more than just a task list—you can set up full case workflows, break them into steps, and assign each piece to the right person. Everyone knows what they need to do and when it’s due, which cuts down on last-minute stress and check-in emails.

It works well for both small teams and growing firms that want a clearer view of who’s handling what.

Key Features:

Build custom task lists and timelines for each case
Assign tasks, add notes, and set due dates
Track progress with boards, calendars, or simple lists
Works on desktop and mobile so your team stays updated anywhere

20. ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a free app that can help with writing, research, brainstorming, and even reviewing legal language.

While it’s not designed specifically for legal professionals, many lawyers use it to speed up routine tasks like drafting emails, rewording documents, or summarizing long content. It can be a handy assistant as long as it’s used with care.

An internet connection is required to use it, and it’s best treated as a support tool, not a replacement for legal judgment.

Key Features:

Helps draft, rephrase, and summarize content
Answers questions and explains concepts quickly
Great for brainstorming or writing support
Available as a web app and mobile version

Start Automating Your Discovery Documents Today

The point of this article was simple: lawyers don’t need to do everything the hard way. With the right apps, staying organized, saving time, and keeping your practice running smoothly is actually possible. From note-taking to time tracking to team communication, there’s a tool that fits the way you work.

But if there’s one task that still eats up too much of your day, it’s drafting discovery documents. Briefpoint can make a real difference. It’s built specifically for lawyers who want to cut hours of drafting down to just minutes—without sacrificing quality or control.

If you’re ready to spend less time formatting and more time lawyering, give Briefpoint a try. It’s fast, smart, and made for the kind of work you do every day. And over 500 law firms already use it!

FAQs About Apps For Lawyers

What social media do lawyers use most?

LinkedIn is the most commonly used platform among lawyers. It’s professional, networking-focused, and a good place to share legal insights or connect with peers.

Is there AI for lawyers?

Yes, there are several AI tools made for legal work. Tools like Briefpoint, ChatGPT, and others can help with drafting, research, contract review, and automating repetitive tasks.

What’s a good app for managing legal documents?

Clio, OneDrive, and Dropbox are all solid choices. They help keep documents organized, backed up, and easy to share with clients or colleagues.

5 Best Legal Operations Software for Modern Legal Teams

If you’re part of a legal team, you already know how much work happens behind the scenes. It’s not all case law and contracts—it’s budgets, documents, vendor coordination, and making sure everything runs on time.

And when you’re juggling all of that with outdated systems or manual processes, things get messy fast.

That’s why legal operations software matters. It helps you organize your workload, cut out repetitive tasks, and bring everything into one place. Instead of switching between spreadsheets and email threads, you get tools built to handle exactly what legal teams deal with every day.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what legal ops actually covers and show you some of the most useful tools out there—broken down by category. We’ll also highlight the key features that make each tool stand out so you can find what fits your team best.

What Are Legal Operations?

Legal operations—or legal ops—is the business side of running a legal team. It covers everything that supports lawyers without being legal work itself. That includes but is not limited to managing:

Budgets
Vendors
Tech tools
Data
Reporting
Internal processes

The goal is simple: take repetitive, non-legal tasks off the lawyers’ plates so they can focus on actual legal work. Legal ops help legal teams work more efficiently, make better decisions, and stay on top of deadlines and legal spend.

This area has grown into its own field, with professionals dedicated to improving how legal departments function. They handle strategy, process improvement, financial oversight, and technology adoption—to make sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

Legal operations also play a key role in helping legal departments prove their value. Instead of being seen as just a cost center, legal teams can now show how they support the bigger goals of the business.

In short, legal ops is the engine that keeps everything moving while quietly powering the legal team so they can focus on what matters most.

What is Legal Operations Software?

Legal operations software is built to support the day-to-day work of legal departments. It helps manage contracts, budgets, vendors, legal spend, documents, eSignatures, compliance tasks, and more without relying on spreadsheets or outdated systems.

Most tools offer automation features, like auto-drafting discovery responses or routing contracts for review. Some use AI to flag risks or handle routine legal tasks. These features save time, reduce errors, and free up lawyers to focus on legal strategy.

As client demands increase, legal teams are expected to deliver faster results with fewer resources. Legal operations software makes that possible by improving how legal work is organized, tracked, and delivered.

It’s also great for reporting. Legal ops tools can show how much you’re spending, which vendors are performing well, and where bottlenecks are slowing you down. In short, it turns legal departments into more efficient, business-focused teams.

With all this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best tools for legal operations teams and corporate legal departments.

Best Legal Operations Tools Per Category

Legal operations cover a lot of ground, so there’s no one-size-fits-all tool. The best approach is to pick software that’s built for specific tasks, whether it’s drafting documents, managing contracts, or tracking billing.

Below are the top tools in each category that legal teams rely on to get things done faster and with less hassle.

1. Discovery Document Drafting: Briefpoint

Drafting discovery documents can slow everything down. It’s repetitive, tedious, and takes up valuable time that could be better spent on strategy or case prep.

Briefpoint takes care of the busywork by auto-generating clean, formatted discovery drafts in minutes. This AI-powered tool handles interrogatories, requests for admission, and requests for production for all U.S. states and federal districts.

The process is simple: upload your PDF, select your objections, and download a ready-to-edit Word file. No complicated setup, no steep learning curve—just faster drafting with less stress.

Best Features

Propound & respond support: Drafts and responds to requests for admission, requests for production, and interrogatories across all U.S. jurisdictions.
Fast document generation: Upload a PDF and get a mostly completed brief in minutes.
Click-to-add objections: Easily add objections to each request with a simple interface.
Editable Word downloads: Export fully formatted documents for final edits or filing.
Court-specific formatting: Automatically detects court info to apply local rules.
Private and secure: Uses end-to-end encryption and doesn’t store or train on client data.

Briefpoint can help you draft legal documents in minutes instead of hours. Find out more about the platform and book your demo today!

2. Contract Lifecycle Management: Ironclad

Contract lifecycle management (CLM) is the process of creating, reviewing, approving, signing, storing, and tracking contracts from start to finish.

Ironclad makes this process smoother by bringing everything into one central platform. It removes the back-and-forth emails, scattered edits, and tracking headaches that often slow things down.

Source: G2

With Ironclad, legal teams can collaborate with other departments, set up automated approval flows, and keep full visibility into every contract. It’s built to handle high volumes of contracts without the usual chaos.

Best Features

Full contract workflow: Manages everything from drafting to signature and storage.
Live collaboration tools: Teams can edit and comment on contracts in real time.
Automated approvals: Routes contracts through the right steps without manual follow-up.
Audit trail and version control: Tracks every edit, comment, and approval.
Central contract library: Organizes contracts with filters, tags, and search.
Integrates with key platforms: Works with Salesforce, Slack, DocuSign, and more.

3. Collaborative eDiscovery: Everlaw

Everlaw is a cloud-based electronic discovery platform that helps legal teams review, organize, and share case documents in one secure place. It’s designed for collaboration, making it easier for teams to manage both internal and external matters without getting buried in files or emails.

Source: G2

As part of modern legal operations management, Everlaw simplifies the process of reviewing large sets of data. Teams can highlight key info, leave notes, assign tasks, and build case timelines—all within the same platform. It reduces the back-and-forth and keeps everyone on the same page.

Used by law firms and in-house legal teams, Everlaw fits well into any legal software setup. It gives legal professionals the tools to work faster, stay organized, and handle discovery with less stress.

Best Features

Cloud-based access: Review discovery documents anytime, from anywhere.
Team collaboration tools: Comment, tag, and assign tasks within your team.
Powerful search options: Find the right documents quickly with smart filters.
Timeline builder: Visually map out events, facts, and evidence.
Secure document sharing: Control who sees what, inside or outside your team.
Seamless integration: Connects with your other legal tools and systems.

4. Electronic Signatures: DocuSign

DocuSign is an electronic signature tool that allows legal teams to send, sign, and manage documents digitally. It replaces the need for printing, scanning, or mailing paperwork, speeding up approvals and keeping signatures organized in one place.

Source: G2

For legal teams managing contracts, agreements, or filings, DocuSign is a key part of modern legal workflows. It helps reduce delays, improves accuracy, and makes it easier to track who signed what and when.

Everything is timestamped and stored securely, which is especially helpful when working with outside counsel or across departments. DocuSign also supports integration with other tools, which helps legal teams manage legal data without extra steps.

Best Features

Legally binding eSignatures: Secure and accepted in courts and across industries.
Audit trails: Track every step in the signing process for transparency.
Reusable templates: Save time on documents you send frequently.
Mobile-friendly: Send and sign documents from any device.
Real-time notifications: Get alerts when documents are viewed or signed.
Tool integrations: Works with contract tools, CRMs, and cloud storage apps.

5. Legal Accounting: LeanLaw

LeanLaw is a legal-specific accounting and billing tool built for law firms and in-house teams. It helps manage time tracking, invoicing, trust accounting, and expense reporting—all while syncing directly with QuickBooks Online.

Source: LeanLaw.co

Essentially, it’s designed to simplify billing and give full visibility into legal costs without needing to juggle spreadsheets.

LeanLaw also helps legal teams stay organized with detailed reporting, making it easier to monitor budgets and work with legal vendors. It supports internal tracking needs and offers features that work well alongside legal tracker support systems used in larger departments.

Best Features

QuickBooks Online integration: Syncs billing and accounting in real time.
Time tracking tools: Track billable hours by client, matter, or user.
Trust accounting: Manage client funds in compliance with legal standards.
Detailed reporting: See where money is going and identify gaps.
Invoice automation: Generate and send polished invoices with a few clicks.
Vendor management: Track and manage outside costs tied to legal work.

Briefpoint Eliminates One of the Most Tedious Parts of Legal Operations

Legal operations software covers everything from contracts to billing to eSignatures and the right tools can save your team serious time. But even with solid systems in place, discovery drafting often remains a stubborn bottleneck.

Briefpoint solves this by tackling one of the most tedious parts of legal work: drafting and responding to discovery requests. Instead of spending hours formatting documents or copying standard objections, you can upload a PDF and generate a ready-to-edit draft in minutes.

Briefpoint handles interrogatories, requests for admission, and requests for production across all U.S. jurisdictions. You stay in control of the content, but the heavy lifting is done for you—fast, secure, and fully editable.

If your legal team is already using tools to manage contracts, track spend, or collect signatures, adding Briefpoint to your toolkit is a simple next step.

See it in action—book a demo and find out how much time you could save.

FAQs About Legal Operations Software

What is the most popular legal software?

Some of the most widely used legal software tools include Briefpoint, Ironclad, and DocuSign. Each serves a different purpose—case management, document storage, contract workflows, or eSignatures. The right choice depends on your team’s needs. Popular platforms often offer features like custom workflows, integrations with other tools, and dashboards that provide actionable insights into legal activity and performance.

What is legal operations management?

Legal operations management refers to the processes, people, and tools that help legal teams run more efficiently. It focuses on things like budgeting, vendor relationships, project management, reporting, and technology adoption. The goal is to support legal work by handling everything behind the scenes—allowing lawyers to focus on legal tasks, not admin work. Many teams also rely on vendors that offer implementation services to set up their systems smoothly.

What is legal case management software?

Legal case management software helps lawyers track cases, deadlines, documents, contacts, and communications in one place. It allows teams to assign tasks, store case files, and view case progress at a glance. Most platforms also let you import data from older systems, which helps teams switch over without losing past work.

What is legal CRM software?

Legal CRM (customer relationship management) software helps law firms manage client interactions, track leads, schedule follow-ups, and keep contact records organized. It’s especially useful for intake teams and business development. A good legal CRM makes it easy to turn client communication into valuable data that helps teams improve service, follow up consistently, and grow smarter.

9 Best Legal Document Management Software for Law Firms

Managing legal documents shouldn’t feel like a never-ending task. Whether you’re dealing with contracts, case files, or client records, keeping everything organized, secure, and easy to access is critical. But relying on outdated filing systems or generic storage solutions only makes things harder.

Lost files, version confusion, security risks—it’s a mess no law firm should have to deal with. That’s why legal document management software exists. It helps legal professionals store, track, and retrieve documents efficiently while ensuring compliance and data security.

But with so many options out there, which one is right for your firm?

In this guide, we’ll break down the best legal document management software available today, covering key features, pros, and how they can improve the way you handle legal files.

What is Legal Document Management Software?

Legal document management software is like your digital assistant for keeping case files, contracts, and client documents in order. No more digging through cluttered folders or scrolling endlessly to find what you need.

A good system helps you store, organize, and retrieve documents fast—so you’re not wasting time on paperwork when you could be handling cases.

But it’s not just about storage. These tools track versions, control access, and keep everything secure, ensuring compliance without the headache. Whether you’re a solo attorney or part of a big firm, a solid document management system (DMS) keeps your workflow smooth and your documents right where you need them.

How Can Document Management Software Benefit Legal Professionals?

Legal document management software makes life easier for legal professionals by keeping everything organized, secure, and accessible. If you’re drowning in paperwork or wasting time searching for files, a solid DMS can change the way you work. Here’s how:

Find Documents Faster

Wasting time searching for files is frustrating and unnecessary. With smart search tools, you can locate case files, contracts, and client documents in seconds—you don’t need to sift through endless folders or struggle to remember where something was saved.

Most legal DMS solutions offer full-text search, metadata tagging, and document indexing, which help make retrieval effortless.

For example, instead of manually browsing through years of case records, you can type in a client’s name or a keyword from a contract, and the system instantly pulls up the right document. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of losing important files.

Keep Everything Organized

Ever wasted time hunting for a document, only to realize it was saved in the wrong folder—or worse, completely missing?

A good document management system puts an end to that chaos. With tags, folders, and metadata, everything stays exactly where you need it.

No more guessing, no more duplicate files floating around. When you open your system, you’ll see a clear structure that actually makes sense.

Protect Sensitive Information

Legal documents contain confidential client information, case details, and contracts that can’t afford to fall into the wrong hands. A solid document management system adds multiple layers of security to keep everything safe.

Encryption – Protects sensitive documents by making them unreadable to unauthorized users.
Access controls – Restricts who can view, edit, or share specific files based on user roles.
Audit trails – Tracks every action taken on a document so you know who accessed it and when.
Secure sharing – Allows you to send files to clients or colleagues without the risk of email leaks.

Work Smarter with Your Team

Collaboration gets messy when documents are scattered across emails, shared drives, or personal folders.

A document management system keeps everything in one place so your team can access the latest versions without confusion. Rather than emailing a contract back and forth, you can share a secure link where team members can review, comment, and edit in real time.

For example, if multiple attorneys are working on a case, they can update documents simultaneously while the system tracks changes. Whether you’re in the office or working remotely, everyone stays on the same page—literally—without the usual back-and-forth hassle.

Stay Compliant Without the Stress

Keeping up with legal regulations isn’t optional—it’s a necessity. But manually tracking compliance requirements? That’s a headache you don’t need.

A solid document management system helps you stay compliant without extra effort. With built-in security measures, access logs, and automatic document retention policies, you won’t have to second-guess whether you’re meeting industry standards.

Need to prove a document was handled properly? Detailed audit trails have your back. Instead of stressing over compliance, you can focus on your work, knowing that your system is doing the heavy lifting for you.

Access Files from Anywhere

Legal work doesn’t always happen at your desk. Whether you’re in court, meeting with a client, or catching up on work from home, you need instant access to your files.

Cloud-based document management systems let you retrieve, edit, and share documents from any device with an internet connection. No more calling the office to email you a file or scrambling to find the right version.

With a secure login, you can pull up contracts, case notes, or legal forms exactly when you need them without being tied to a single location.

Save Time on Repetitive Tasks

Nobody became a lawyer to spend their days sorting files and managing paperwork. A good document management system automates the small, time-consuming tasks that slow you down so you can focus on what actually matters: your cases.

Here’s what automation takes off your plate:

Document tagging – No need to manually categorize files; the system applies the right tags automatically.
Version tracking – Keeps a record of every change, so you’re never stuck wondering who edited what.
Template creation – Quickly generate contracts, agreements, and legal forms without starting from scratch.
File organization – Automatically sorts documents based on case, client, or practice area.

With these tasks handled for you, you can spend less time on busywork and more time on legal strategy, client meetings, and winning cases.

What Are The Challenges of Manual or Non-Specialized DMS?

Using a basic file system or a generic document management tool might seem fine at first, but legal work comes with unique demands that these systems can’t handle. Here’s what you’re likely dealing with:

Lost or misfiled documents: Without structured tagging and search features, finding the right file can take forever.
Security risks: Generic storage solutions often lack legal-grade encryption, access controls, and audit logs.
Version confusion: When multiple people edit a document, it’s easy to lose track of the latest version.
Limited collaboration: Basic file-sharing tools don’t offer secure ways to collaborate with clients and colleagues.
Compliance issues: Legal regulations require strict document handling policies, which generic tools don’t always support.
Time-consuming organization: Manually naming and categorizing documents eats up valuable hours.
No workflow automation: Routine tasks like document tagging, retention policies, and approvals must be done manually.

Relying on a non-specialized system adds unnecessary frustration and risk. In contrast, a proper legal document management solution eliminates these challenges to keep your practice efficient, secure, and compliant.

The Best Legal Document Management Software Today

Not all document management systems are built for law firms. The right software should keep your files secure, organized, and easy to access. Let’s go over top solutions that legal professionals trust.

1. Clio Manage

Clio Manage helps law firms stay organized by offering a cloud-based system where files are easy to store, find, and share.

Source: G2

It eliminates the hassle of scattered folders and outdated versions, making document management more efficient. With built-in tools like e-signatures and client portals, it simplifies everyday tasks while keeping everything secure.

Best Features

Cloud-based storage: Access documents from anywhere, whether in the office or on the go.
Secure client portal: Share files safely with clients and team members without email risks.
Automatic document categorization: Keeps files organized by tagging and sorting them automatically.
Version control: Tracks changes and ensures you’re always working with the latest version.
Built-in e-signature support: Allows quick, secure document signing without third-party tools.

The Biggest Pros

Simple and easy-to-use interface
Integrates with legal research and accounting tools
Strong security and compliance features

2. NetDocuments

NetDocuments is a cloud-based document management system built specifically for law firms. It focuses on security, compliance, and efficiency, which makes it a strong choice for firms handling sensitive legal information.

Source: NetDocuments.com

Thanks to AI-powered search, version control, and seamless integrations, it helps legal professionals find and manage documents without unnecessary complications.

Best Features

Enterprise-grade security: Protects sensitive legal files with encryption and strict access controls.
AI-powered search: Quickly locates documents using advanced search and filtering capabilities.
Version control: Tracks changes and maintains a detailed audit trail for compliance.
Microsoft 365 integration: Works seamlessly with Word, Outlook, and other Microsoft tools.
E-signature support: Enables secure document signing directly within the platform.

The Biggest Pros

Scalable for firms of all sizes
Strong search capabilities for quick access to documents
Robust security and compliance tools

3. ProLaw

ProLaw combines a legal document management system with case and practice management, which makes it a comprehensive solution for law firms.

Source: Elite.com

Designed for firms that need more than just file storage, it helps with organizing documents, automating workflows, and tracking case details in one system. It’s available as both an on-premise and cloud-based solution, so firms have the flexibility based on their needs.

Best Features

Integrated case management: Connects documents with case details for streamlined access.
Document automation: Generates legal contracts and forms quickly with pre-built templates.
Built-in billing and accounting: Manages time tracking, invoicing, and financial records within the system.
Version control: Keeps a history of document changes to prevent errors and data loss.
On-premise and cloud options: Offers deployment flexibility based on firm preferences.

The Biggest Pros

Combines document and practice management in one system
Strong automation features for routine legal documents
Flexible setup options for different firm needs

4. LexWorkplace

LexWorkplace is a cloud-based document management system designed for law firms. It offers a simple, organized way to store and access legal files without the need for on-premise servers or complex IT setups.

Source: G2

With built-in document tagging, version control, and compliance tracking, it helps legal professionals keep everything in order while maintaining security.

Best Features

Document tagging: Organizes files with customizable tags for easy retrieval.
Full-text search: Quickly locates documents using keywords within file content.
Secure collaboration: Allows teams and clients to share documents safely.
Automatic backups: Makes sure documents are protected against accidental loss or deletion.
Compliance tracking: Helps firms stay on top of legal regulations and data security requirements.

The Biggest Pros

No IT setup required, making it easy to implement
User-friendly design with an intuitive interface
Built specifically for legal workflows and compliance needs

5. CosmoLex

CosmoLex is a law practice management software with built-in document management, billing, and accounting. It helps law firms keep case files, contracts, and financial records organized without relying on multiple software tools.

Source: G2

Instead of juggling different platforms, everything is handled in one system, so it’s easier to stay on top of documents and compliance. Designed for small to mid-sized firms, it simplifies daily operations while keeping sensitive information secure.

Best Features

Document automation: Generates legal forms and contracts using pre-built templates.
Secure client portal: Allows safe file sharing with clients and team members.
Integrated legal billing: Combines document management with time tracking and invoicing.
Cloud storage with encryption: Keeps documents and client data secure with bank-grade data protection.
Case-based organization: Links documents directly to cases for easy access.

The Biggest Pros

Combines document management with billing and accounting
No need for third-party accounting software
Strong compliance and security features

6. MyCase

MyCase is a legal practice management software that includes built-in document management features. It helps law firms organize case files, store contracts, and securely share documents with clients.

Source: G2

With cloud-based access, e-signatures, and an easy-to-use interface, it’s designed to simplify document handling while keeping everything organized in one place.

Best Features

Case-based document storage: Keeps all case files organized and easily accessible.
Secure e-signatures: Allows clients and attorneys to sign documents electronically.
Mobile access: Lets users view and manage documents from any device.
Client portal: Provides a secure way to share files with clients and receive documents.
Automated reminders: Notifies users of important deadlines and document actions.

The Biggest Pros

Affordable option for small to mid-sized firms
Simple setup with an intuitive design
Strong document organization and case management software features

7. PracticePanther

Last but not least, we have PracticePanther, a cloud-based legal practice management system that includes document management features.

Source: G2

It helps law firms store, organize, and access legal files while automating workflows to save time. Plus, it comes with built-in e-signatures, customizable templates, and seamless integrations to simplify document handling for busy legal professionals.

Best Features

Drag-and-drop document storage: Upload and organize files effortlessly.
Customizable templates: Create legal documents faster with pre-built templates.
Built-in e-signatures: Sign and approve documents securely without third-party tools.
Case and task tracking: Connects documents to case files for better organization.
Cloud-based access: Retrieve files anytime from any device.

The Biggest Pros

Great for automating legal workflows
User-friendly with a clean, modern interface
Strong integrations with third-party legal tools

8. Rocket Matter

Rocket Matter is a cloud-based legal document and practice management system designed to help law firms stay organized and efficient. It offers secure document storage, automation tools, and billing integration, making it easier to manage case files without juggling multiple platforms.

Source: G2

Whether you need to generate contracts, track billable time, or securely share files with clients, Rocket Matter simplifies the process while keeping everything in one place.

Best Features

Cloud-based document storage: Access files securely from anywhere.
Document automation: Generate legal documents using pre-built templates.
Built-in time tracking and billing: Link documents to case billing for streamlined invoicing.
Client portal: Share documents securely with clients and receive files without email risks.
Workflow automation: Automates repetitive document-related tasks to save time.

The Biggest Pros

Easy-to-use interface with a simple setup
Strong automation tools for document workflows
Seamless integration with legal billing and case management

9. Helpjuice

Helpjuice is a knowledge management software that also offers powerful document management features. While primarily designed for organizing and sharing internal knowledge, it provides law firms with a structured way to store, manage, and retrieve legal documents.

Source: G2

Its advanced search, collaboration tools, and customizable organization make it a useful solution for firms looking to centralize important files and legal resources.

Best Features

Knowledge and document management: Stores legal files and internal knowledge in one platform.
Advanced search functionality: Quickly finds documents using keyword search and filtering.
Collaboration tools: Allows teams to co-edit and comment on documents in real time.
Access controls and permissions: Restricts document access based on user roles.
Customizable structure: Organizes documents in a way that fits your firm’s workflow.

The Biggest Pros

Combines knowledge management with document storage
Strong search and filtering tools for quick access
Customizable organization for different legal teams

Briefpoint Can Further Transform How You Manage Legal Documents

While legal document management systems keep your files organized, Briefpoint takes efficiency a step further by automating the drafting process.

Instead of spending hours crafting discovery responses and legal documents, Briefpoint’s AI-powered platform allows you to generate accurate drafts in minutes.

With Briefpoint, you can:

Automate discovery responses: Upload discovery requests, and Briefpoint analyzes them to draft precise responses and slashes hours off your workflow.
Ensure consistency and accuracy: The platform applies standardized legal formatting and language, reducing errors and maintaining uniformity across documents.
Streamline client communications: Features like Briefpoint Bridge translate complex legal requests into plain English for clients, simplifying the process of collecting necessary information.

Ready to revolutionize your document drafting process? Schedule a demo with Briefpoint today and see how automation can upgrade your legal practice!

FAQs About Best Legal Document Management Software

What is the best legal management software?

The best legal document management software depends on your firm’s needs. Clio Manage, NetDocuments, and LexWorkplace are great for organizing and securing files, while ProLaw and CosmoLex offer integrated practice management features. If you need a document automation tool, Briefpoint helps speed up drafting and reduce manual work.

What document management system do law firms use?

Law firms commonly use Clio Manage, NetDocuments, and ProLaw for document storage, security, and compliance. Some firms prefer all-in-one solutions like CosmoLex or MyCase, which combine case management with document handling.

Which is the best document management software?

The best option depends on whether you need a simple cloud-based system, automation features, or full legal practice management. NetDocuments excels in security, Clio Manage integrates well with other legal tools, and LexWorkplace is great for firms that want a dedicated legal DMS without an IT setup.

What is the best way to organize legal documents?

Using a legal document management system is the best way to keep everything structured. Features like metadata tagging, case-based organization, version control, and secure access controls help law firms maintain order and efficiency.

5 Best Software for Legal Documents for 2025

Dealing with legal documents can feel like a full-time job.

Between drafting contracts, organizing files, tracking changes, and managing signatures, it’s easy to feel buried under the weight of it all. And no one has the time to manually sort through mountains of paperwork or deal with clunky processes that slow everything down.

Here’s the good news: Legal document software has come a long way. The right tools can take the chaos out of document management so you can stay organized, save time, and reduce stress.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best software for legal documents in 2025. Whether you’re looking to simplify your workflow, keep better track of your documents, or just make life easier, there’s something here for you.

Types of Software for Legal Documents

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

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

Document Automation Software

Tired of drafting the same types of documents repeatedly? Document automation software makes this process faster and easier by creating legal document templates and automating repetitive tasks.

Instead of starting from scratch every time, you can use templates or generative artificial intelligence that automatically fills in the necessary details. This speeds up the process and helps you avoid pesky errors that can creep in when you’re doing manual data entry.

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

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

Legal Document Management Software

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

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

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

Contract Management Software

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

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

Electronic Signature Tools

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

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

Practice Management Software

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

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

With practice management software, you can:

Manage case files
Track billable hours
Schedule appointments
Handle client communications

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

5 Best Legal Document Software Solutions to Complete Your Stack

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

Here’s a look at some top software picks for 2025 that can help you upgrade your legal workflows and keep everything organized.

1. Briefpoint: Best for Document Automation

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

This legal drafting software is all about making your life easier by automating discovery response and request creation.

Instead of starting from scratch every time, you just upload your opposing counsel’s discovery request .pdf, and Briefpoint does the rest—creating a fully formatted, ready-to-use response document in no time.

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

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

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

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

Book your demo today and see how Briefpoint can take hours off your workflow!

2. OneDrive: Best Legal Document Management System

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

Source: G2

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

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

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

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

3. Ironclad: Best for Contract Management

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

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

Source: G2

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

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

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

4. DocuSign: Best for Electronic Signatures

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

That’s why DocuSign is such a must-have for law firms. It transforms the signing process into something seamless and straightforward. Instead of printing, mailing, or scanning, DocuSign lets you send documents for electronic signatures instantly.

Source: G2

The platform is user-friendly and secure, giving you peace of mind that the signatures are legally binding and the process is fully tracked.

5. Clio: Best Legal Practice Management Software

Managing a law practice involves handling a lot of different tasks—tracking cases, managing client communications, handling billing, and keeping everything on schedule. Without the right law practice management software, it can quickly become overwhelming.

Clio is designed to combine all these elements into one cohesive platform tailored specifically for legal professionals. With Clio, you can easily manage your cases, track billable hours, send invoices, and organize client communications all in one place.

Source: G2

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

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

Best Practices for Creating, Storing, and Organizing Legal Documents

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

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

Opt for Paperless Document Management

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

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

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

Use Consistent Document Templates

Starting with a blank document each time is time-consuming and increases the likelihood of errors.

Using standardized templates makes sure all your documents have a consistent format, which is a must in the legal industry where precision matters.

Develop a Clear Naming Convention

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

Organize Documents with a Logical Folder Structure

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

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

Back Up Your Files Regularly

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

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

Keep Track of Version Control

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

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

Secure Sensitive Information

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

Follow Document Retention Policies

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

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

Train Your Team

Finally, see to it that everyone on your team understands and follows your document management practices.

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

How Much Does Legal Document Software Cost?

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

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

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

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

Spend Less Time on Routine Legal Drafting With Briefpoint

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Can You Save With Briefpoint?

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

Book a demo and save on these costs with Briefpoint.

FAQs About Software for Legal Documents

What software do lawyers use?

Lawyers use a variety of software to manage their workload efficiently. This includes document automation tools for drafting legal documents, case management software for tracking deadlines and client information, and e-signature solutions for securely signing agreements. Popular choices include Clio, DocuSign, Briefpoint, and NetDocuments, each catering to different aspects of legal practice.

How do I create a legal document in Word?

You can start by using a built-in template or drafting from scratch. Microsoft Word offers pre-made templates for contracts, agreements, and other legal documents. Simply choose a template, fill in the necessary details, and customize it as needed. For a more efficient approach, document automation software can help generate legal documents quickly with pre-set templates and AI-powered drafting.

What is legal document management software?

Legal document management software helps law firms organize, store, and retrieve case-related documents efficiently. It provides secure storage, version control, and advanced search capabilities, ensuring that documents are easy to access and protected against unauthorized use. These tools eliminate the hassle of sifting through piles of paperwork and improve collaboration among legal teams.

Which is the best document control software?

The best document control software depends on your firm’s needs. Options like NetDocuments, iManage, and Clio are widely used for their security, cloud storage, and collaboration features. If you’re looking for an AI-powered tool to streamline discovery responses, Briefpoint offers a specialized solution for automating legal drafting, cutting down the time spent on routine paperwork.

5 Kinds of Litigation Management Software Every Firm Needs

Handling legal cases is more than just showing up in court—it’s a nonstop cycle of deadlines, paperwork, and research. Every motion, filing, and client update demands attention. That’s why it can be so easy to get lost in the details.

Litigation software helps law firms cut through the chaos. With tools designed to organize case files, automate administrative tasks, and speed up research, legal teams can work more efficiently and stay ahead of critical deadlines.

From case management to document automation, the right software can transform the way you handle litigation. Let’s explore the must-have tools that can make legal work faster, more accurate, and less overwhelming.

What is Litigation Software?

Litigation software is a set of digital tools designed to help law firms manage legal cases more efficiently.

It helps you stay on top of cases by organizing documents, tracking deadlines, and automating repetitive tasks. Instead of juggling spreadsheets, overflowing email threads, and stacks of paperwork, you get a structured system that keeps everything in one place.

Whether you’re handling complex litigation or managing multiple cases at once, the right software keeps your workflow efficient and your focus where it matters—building strong legal arguments.

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 cases, deadlines, court appearances, and key litigation events in one place. Instead of juggling spreadsheets, emails, and sticky notes, you get a centralized system that keeps everything organized and accessible.

Key Features:

Case tracking: Organizes case details, including parties involved, court documents, and status updates, so you can quickly access critical information.
Calendar reminders for court dates: Sends automated notifications for hearings, filing deadlines, and other important litigation events to prevent missed deadlines.
Document organization by case: Stores pleadings, motions, and other legal documents in a structured format, which helps make retrieval fast and hassle-free.
Time tracking and billing: Logs billable hours linked to specific cases for accurate invoicing and time management.

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: Keeps confidential legal documents protected with encryption and access controls, which means only authorized users can view or edit files.
Searchable document libraries: Allows quick retrieval of case files, contracts, and pleadings using keywords, metadata, or filters, so you don’t waste time digging through folders.
Version control: Tracks changes to documents, maintaining a history of edits and preventing accidental loss of important updates.
Sharing and collaboration tools: Allows team members to review, comment, and edit documents in real time.

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: Uses pre-set templates and AI-driven tools to quickly generate requests for production, interrogatories, and requests for admission.
Templates for discovery requests and responses: Provides customizable templates that align with court requirements, reducing the need to draft documents from scratch.
Legal form generation: Automatically fills out commonly used legal forms, ensuring accuracy and compliance with jurisdictional standards.
Customization options for specific case needs: Allows legal professionals to modify templates and add case-specific details. This helps make sure documents meet the unique demands of each case.

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.

Test Briefpoint yourself by scheduling a demo here.

4. Legal Research Software

Legal research is a critical part of case preparation, but manually sifting through court rulings, statutes, and regulations can be time-consuming. Finding relevant precedents and legal interpretations requires access to vast amounts of information—and that’s where legal research software comes in.

These tools help you quickly locate relevant case law, analyze past verdicts, and stay updated on legal changes, saving hours of manual work.

Key features:

Searchable databases of case law: Provides access to a vast collection of court opinions, legal briefs, and rulings, allowing for quick retrieval of relevant precedents.
Verdict search for past rulings: Helps analyze similar cases and outcomes to give insights into how courts have ruled on comparable legal issues.
Statute and regulation libraries: Offers a centralized source for federal, state, and local laws, which makes it easy to find applicable legal statutes.
Real-time updates on changes in the law: Keeps you informed of newly passed legislation, amendments, and judicial decisions that could impact your cases.

5. Legal Practice Management Software

While litigation management software focuses on tracking cases and court schedules, legal practice management software goes beyond that by handling billing, client communication, and overall law firm operations.

It’s an all-in-one solution designed to keep everything running smoothly, from case intake to invoicing.

For firms handling civil litigation practice, managing deadlines is only part of the equation. Keeping track of client interactions, billing hours accurately, and organizing case files efficiently all require the right litigation management software.

A good litigation case management software makes sure that every aspect of the legal process—both administrative and case-related—is handled in a centralized system.

Key features:

Client management tools: Keeps detailed records of client interactions, case details, and communication history to streamline follow-ups and case progress tracking.
Billing and invoicing: Automates time tracking, generates invoices, and ensures accurate billing for both hourly and fixed-fee clients.
Time tracking: Logs billable hours by case, client, or task to help attorneys accurately account for their work and maximize revenue.
Document and case management integration: Syncs case files, legal documents, and court filings with case records, so all information is easily accessible in one place.

Simplify Your Legal Workflow with Litigation Software

Litigation involves a constant flow of deadlines, filings, and case documents. Whether you’re handling civil litigation cases, corporate disputes, or regulatory matters, staying organized is key.

The right software helps by automating routine tasks, reducing administrative work, and making sure critical deadlines aren’t missed.

When it comes to discovery, document drafting is one of the most time-consuming parts of the process. That’s where Briefpoint makes a difference. It automates discovery requests and responses, reducing the time spent on tedious drafting while ensuring accuracy and compliance with court rules.

Want to see how much time you could save?

Try Briefpoint for yourself! Schedule a demo today and find out how it can speed up your discovery process, cut costs, and free up more time for case strategy!

FAQs About Litigation Software

What is the best legal management software?

The best legal management software depends on your firm’s needs. Some platforms focus on case tracking and document management, while others offer billing, client communication, and workflow automation. Top legal software options include civil litigation software, practice management tools, and discovery automation platforms like Briefpoint for streamlining document drafting.

How much does legal case management software cost?

Pricing varies based on features, user count, and whether the software is cloud-based or on-premise. Entry-level plans can start at around $30 per user per month, while more advanced solutions with automation, integrations, and secure document storage can cost several hundred dollars per month. Many providers offer tiered pricing or custom quotes for larger firms.

What is legal spend management software?

Legal spend management software helps law firms and corporate legal departments track expenses, manage budgets, and analyze billing data. It provides insights into legal costs, ensures compliance with billing guidelines, and improves financial oversight by identifying inefficiencies in legal spending.

What does litigation support software do?

Litigation support software assists with case preparation by organizing documents, managing discovery, and facilitating legal research. It streamlines tasks like e-discovery, trial presentation, and document review, helping legal teams work more efficiently and focus on case strategy.

How to Respond to Interrogatories, California​

How to Respond to Interrogatories, California

Interrogatory Obligations

Drafting Interrogatory Responses

Rules for Responding to Interrogatories

Objection to Interrogatories

Client Verification

Serving the Interrogatories

Supplement Your Interrogatories

Deadline for Responding to Interrogatories

Asking for More Time

Failing to Respond on Time

Make Discovery Responses Easier With Briefpoint

FAQS About How to Respond to Interrogatories in California

How to respond to interrogatories in California?

What are acceptable responses to interrogatories?

What are the rules for interrogatories in California?

What if someone doesn’t answer interrogatories?

Can a party object to every interrogatory?