The Lawmatics Blog

‘Tis the season for holiday sweaters and eggnog, as well as a new batch of features from the Lawmaticians! Cozy up by the fire and unwrap these exciting new additions to Lawmatics.

Quickbooks Integration

We are thrilled to share the release of our latest integration, Quickbooks! Automatically create a customer and invoice in Quickbooks when an invoice is sent to a matter via Lawmatics. Map your accounts, field types, time entries, and expenses to ensure that pertinent matter data syncs from Lawmatics to Quickbooks. Whether you or a fellow staff member manage your firm’s books, this integration is sure to make invoice generation a breeze.

Learn more about this integration here. Not yet using LMPay? Click here to get started!

Send from Outbox

A highly anticipated feature among Lawmatics users, any emails sent via Lawmatics can now be set to appear in the outbox of your preferred email client. This update will help improve your firm’s email organization by storing all email correspondences in one central place — alongside your other communications. Once activated, any email sent to or received from an email address that is tied to a matter in Lawmatics is automatically logged in the timeline for that matter. And for quick reference, you can easily go to your outbox to see all emails sent from your address, including those sent via Lawmatics.

To learn more about Send From Outbox, click here.

Matter Numbering

To easily track down and reference cases in your docket, you can now auto-generate a case number and custom title into a matter’s title field as unique identifiers. Further refine your case numbering sequence by adding custom text or database fields such as practice area, lead attorney, client’s last name, etc. Once saved, the resulting case title format will automatically be applied to each of your matters moving forward. Begin auto-numbering your cases by navigating to the Matters page within settings, scrolling down on the page and toggling on “Enable Auto Numbering”.

Read more about auto numbering here.

Booking Form Updates

Automatic scheduling is a favorite feature of many Lawmatics users, and it just got even better. To accommodate virtual meetings in addition to face-to-face meetings, you can now select Zoom as a meeting location option, along with any of your physical office locations on your Booking Forms. Furthermore, we have added the ability to allow multiple attendees in one event. If any of your matters involve the representation of multiple clients, easily add them both to the meeting invite. With the growing popularity of virtual meetings, these upgrades grant your clients the flexibility to choose which option works for them, and have the zoom link added in automatically when needed.

Click here to learn how to use booking forms.

Time & Billing Additions

Request Funds for Trust Account

The latest addition to our Time & Billing system allows you to request funds from a matter for their trust account with the option to let them pay via credit card. Paired with your minimum balance alerts, this will help ensure that a client’s trust balance stays above your designated minimum amount.

Learn more about Trust Accounting here.

Payment Activity Report

Lawmatics Reporting, a core function of our platform, now features a new report for tracking incoming client payments. With the Payment Activity report you are able to set custom filters for the date, payment method, and/or contact. Run the report to see a snapshot view of the payments that meet your criteria, making it even easier to keep an eye on your firm’s incoming cash flows.

Click here to read about the different reporting options for Lawmatics time & billing.

MyCase Integration - Relationship Sync Added

In case you missed our recent announcement, Lawmatics now integrates with MyCase! This integration has only been available for a month and we’ve already released an update: Relationship Sync. When syncing a main matter contact from Lawmatics into MyCase, you can now sync related contacts with a simple toggle (pictured below). This is yet another way Lawmatics removes tedious data entry from your process, and replaces it with automation.

Read up on the MyCase <> Lawmatics Integration here.

New Task Statuses

Get more tasks accomplished, and keep your to-do list tidy with a new and improved list of task statuses. Whereas previously Lawmatics tasks could only be designated as complete or incomplete, we’ve introduced new statuses that account for dependencies or stasis in your processes. In addition, the Tasks dashboard can now be sorted by these statuses for quick reference. Stay tuned for more updates to come regarding Lawmatics tasks.

Click here to learn all about tasks.—We hope this batch of additions to Lawmatics keeps you warm during the holiday season. Until then, we’ll be cooking up a hearty helping of new features to release over the coming months As always, reach out to us at support@lawmatics.com with any questions. See you in the new year!

Technology can set a law firm up for success or bog down its processes and adversely affect its bottom line. Since the COVID-19 pandemic sparked change and challenges in the legal industry, lawyers are rapidly adopting more technology, such as attorney CRM software, than ever before.Although some thought the shift to remote work would disappear after the pandemic, this has not been the case. According to a new report from the American Bar Association (ABA):

• Approximately 87% of the lawyers who responded said their workplaces allow them to work remotely.
• 44% of the young lawyers surveyed would leave their current positions for a greater opportunity to work remotely elsewhere.
• Almost 2/3 of the private practice attorneys surveyed have the flexibility to choose their own schedule and can work remotely 100% of the time if they want.
• Among women lawyers, 56% reported that remote work increased their ability to balance work and family obligations.

As a result, it’s become more important than ever for law firms to know and provide the things lawyers need—such as legal CRM software. This allows each lawyer to provide legal services the way they choose – remotely, from the office, or a combination of the two. And staying current is one of the good things lawyers do.

What to Consider When Choosing a Software?

Selecting the right legal software is a critical decision for any law firm, impacting efficiency, productivity, and client satisfaction. When evaluating options, consider the following key factors to ensure the software aligns seamlessly with your firm's needs:

• Features. Evaluate the range of tools in a given software that address your firm’s specific needs, such as case management, document automation, time tracking, and billing.
• User experience. An intuitive interface requires minimal training and promotes adoption throughout the firm. Check if the vendor provides training materials, including onboarding, webinars, and ongoing support.
• Scale. Choose a software that can grow with your firm. If you’re just starting your own solo practice, consider software options with a less ambitious scale than enterprise business software.
• Customization. Modern legal software should be flexible enough to cater to your firm's unique workflows and preferences, from customizable fields to adjustable templates.
• Integration. Ensure the software can seamlessly integrate with other tools your firm uses, such as email platforms, accounting systems, and practice management software.
• Security and compliance. Given the sensitivity of legal data, robust security features like encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular backups are non-negotiable.
• Cost and value. Weigh the cost of a software — including subscription fees, set up charges, and add-ons — against the return on investment of faster processes, better organization, increased bandwidth, and more responsive client service.
• Reviews and ratings. Seek out reviews and ratings from other legal professionals, and consider the most common strengths and weaknesses they identify in the software they use.

By keeping these considerations in mind, law firms can make an informed decision to adopt software that enhances their operations, improves client service, and positions them for future growth.

What tools and technology do lawyers use?

The most successful lawyers and law firms use technology to work more efficiently and securely in an increasingly remote workplace. Here are some of the most common computer software platforms used by today’s lawyers:

• Lawmatics. Law firm CRM software elevates the client experience and eliminates manual tasks with intake automation, digital intake forms, SMS & email campaigns, marketing performance analytics, document request templates, e-signature, and more. Read Lawmatics reviews here.
• Microsoft 365. Software as a service program Microsoft 365 includes essential business tools like Word, Excel, OneNote, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, and more.
• Google Workspace. Formerly known as G Suite, Google Workspace provides an array of features, including Google Docs, a word processor similar to Microsoft Word, that is a good option for attorneys whose work requires collaboration.
• Kenect. If text messaging clients directly is essential to the lawyers at your firm, platforms like Kenect will allow you to sync your contacts directly into the system, view a log of text conversations in real-time, and trigger messages based on case status.
• LawPay. Lawyers utilize software solutions like LawPay to send out invoices and facilitate credit card and other online payments.
• RingCentral. All-in-one platforms for voice, video meetings, team messaging, and collaboration like RingCentral are popular with attorneys who favor click-to-dial functionality and one-click video conferencing capabilities.
• DocuSign. In 2000, the U.S. passed the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN), making electronic signatures legal in every state and territory where federal law applies. Electronic signature platforms like DocuSign makes document signing faster, easier, and more secure for lawyers and clients.
• Corvum. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology offers texting and calling for attorneys in various practice areas, including criminal defense. Corvum uses an internet connection, integrates with Clio practice management software, and is a top choice for attorneys who frequently travel for research or cases.

Lawyers frequently become more efficient, profitable, and client-centered when they use the proper technology.

What research tools do lawyers use?

According to the ABA’s 2021 Legal Technology Survey Report, the typical lawyer spends an average of 21 percent of their time conducting legal research, up slightly from 18 percent in 2020. Here are some of the platforms they commonly use:

• Westlaw. An online legal research service and proprietary database for attorneys and legal professionals, Westlaw is available in more than 60 countries and provides access to case law, articles, publications, court documents, and legal news.
• Lexis Nexis. According to the ABA’s 2021 Legal Technology Survey Report, practicing attorneys in small firms chose Lexis Nexis as the top legal research vendor.
• Fastcase. One of the largest online libraries in the world, Fastcase integrates with Clio to give attorneys remote access to case law, regulations, statutes, constitutional law, and more.

The survey found that 60 percent of the attorneys surveyed regularly use paid online resources for research, and nearly as many (59%) use free online sources.

What does law practice management software do?

Law practice management software is an all-in-one system that helps firms manage day-to-day workflows like calendaring, case management, tasks, time tracking, billing, and accounting within the practice. Cloud-based practice management, such as Lawmatics software, features robust tools to help law firms manage cases, increase revenue, and offer a better client experience.

Benefits of Using Lawmatics Legal Software

In an era where efficiency and client satisfaction are paramount, Lawmatics helps law firms thrive. By leveraging advanced features and automation, Lawmatics equips legal practices to manage daily operations more effectively while positioning them for long-term growth. Here’s how:

• Automated workflows. Lawmatics automates routine tasks, such as client intake and document generation, freeing attorneys to concentrate on complex legal work that demands their expertise. This streamlined approach not only reduces the administrative burden but also speeds up case management. In fact, 91% of law firms surveyed reported increased efficiency after adopting Lawmatics.
• Data-informed decisions. Real-time analytics and comprehensive reporting empower law firms to identify profitable practice areas and target inefficiencies. By understanding these key metrics, firms can make informed decisions that drive profitability and optimize resource allocation.
• Enhanced communication. Automated follow-ups, personalized messages, and client portals keep clients updated and engaged throughout their case. This level of communication fosters trust and satisfaction, leading 80% of Lawmatics users to report having happier clients with Lawmatics.
• Lead management. Lawmatics leads through automated marketing campaigns and client touchpoints, optimizing the client acquisition process. This functionality not only increases the client base but also ensures steady business growth.

By integrating Lawmatics into their practice, law firms can enhance day-to-day operations while building a robust foundation for future growth. From automating mundane tasks to improving client interactions, Lawmatics empowers legal practices to stay competitive, effective, and ready to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving legal landscape.

Lawmatics integrations

Lawmatics law office software seamlessly integrates with some of the most popular software applications that also help lawyers do more of the good things lawyers do (below).

• Clio Manage
• Smokeball
• LawPay
• PracticePanther
• Filevine
• Rocket Matter
• And more…

Adopting the Right Software for Your Law Firm

In today's fast-paced legal environment, adopting the right software is crucial for law firms looking to enhance their practice and client relationships. From legal CRM platforms and practice management software to comprehensive research databases, attorneys have a variety of tools at their disposal. These technologies enable lawyers to handle tasks ranging from case management and document automation to time tracking and billing, all while ensuring secure and compliant operations. Additionally, popular communication and collaboration tools–like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace–facilitate seamless remote work, empowering lawyers to stay connected and productive from anywhere.Investing in the appropriate software not only streamlines routine administrative tasks but also opens doors to more data-informed decision-making and improved client relations. By embracing these technologies, law firms can enhance their operational efficiency, boost profitability, and deliver superior service to their clients. Find out more about how Lawmatics can streamline legal client intake, marketing, billing, and other processes with automation.

FAQs

Q: What software do law firms use?A: Law firms typically use practice management software, billing software, and document management systems to handle their operations efficiently.Q: What is CRM software for lawyers?A: CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software for lawyers helps manage and track client interactions, schedules, and follow-ups to improve client relationships and firm efficiency.Q: Do law firms need a CRM?A: Yes, law firms benefit from CRM systems as they streamline client communications, enhance client satisfaction, and improve overall efficiency.

While Lawmatics has all the tools you need for collecting and inputting data, what good is all that data if you aren’t using it to gain insights on the performance of your firm? With the power of Lawmatics Custom Reporting and the Analytics Dashboard, you are able to make decisions from a business standpoint to grow and improve your firm.In addition to the KPIs you should be monitoring, Lawmatics gives you the ability to customize and export any of your reports. Meanwhile, the analytics dashboard grants you easy access to metrics like conversion rate, cost per lead, and custom growth goal settings.With all of these features at your fingertips, you’ll be able to grow your business without any guesswork or lack of insights into the trajectory of your business.

Custom Reporting

With custom reporting the possibilities are truly endless in Lawmatics. Slice and dice your data any way you want by essentially creating a table with any fields, filters, grouping, and date range. Furthermore, your reports automatically refresh in real time, meaning that each time you view one, you are seeing the most up-to-date information.

Columns

The first step in creating your custom report is to add fields to be used for your columns. Select from any of the built-in system fields, or any of your custom fields. Simply scroll though the complete list of fields, as shown below, or start typing the name of a field to easily access it.

Any fields that you select will be added as a column into your report.

Filters

Depending on the goal of your particular report, filters can be your best friend. These let you keep the report relevant to the specific KPI, field, etc that you wish to report on. For example, you may create a custom report to only show hired clients. This can be useful if you are looking to narrow in on a data point relevant only to current or past clients, as opposed to leads or lost leads. To do this, simply add a filter. In the example below, we have filtered the report using the Source field, and have selected to only show the Hired matters.

Once you make this selection, the report preview will update to show only results specified by your filters.

Date Range

Similar to adding field filters, you may also filter your report by date. Create a report that shows only the current week or month at a glance, and each time you view it it will be up-to-date for the current date match. Use the drop down in the top left to first select which date field you want to filter on. For instance, the date the matter was created, converted, or any other custom date field.

Then select the date range, using one of the preset options, or create a static custom range for this report.

Grouping

You may have plenty of reports where simply adding columns and filters gets you the data you need. Grouping is a power feature that can add even more insights to your report. When you group by a particular column you will be able to easily see the total number of results in each group, which can help determine performance.For example, you may wish to see how many leads came in for each of your practice areas in a particular month. Grouping would be very useful in this situation. Click the column header, and then select Group by this column.

The report will then look as follows:

We can easily see that Criminal Defense was the most used practice area in the graph above. Also notice how you have the option to subgroup, as shown in the top right corner in the image above. This will add a second grouping by that field within each main group.

Sample Reports

Let’s walk through a few sample reports that may be useful for your firm. Keep in mind that the sky’s the limit when it comes to custom reporting, so these are merely suggestions to get you started.First, you may find it useful to create a report showing the marketing source of each matter in your CRM. When you select your columns for this report, make sure to include both the “source” and “campaign” fields, in addition to whatever fields you may wish to see like practice area, converted date, phone number, etc.You will find grouping on the “source” field helpful for this report, so that you can easily see how many matters came from each source. Then, we suggest adding a sub group by “campaign”, so you can also see insights on each campaign within your sources. Your report will end up looking something like this:

Example KPIs pictured above:

• Matters per marketing source
• Campaign breakdown within each source

Another way you can use a custom report is to track the estimated and actual values of your cases. When you add either, or both, of these fields to your report you will have the option to sum or average each of these columns. Of course with this report it is important to make sure that you are populating these values on each of your matters accurately and timely in order to get best results.When you use any currency or number type field on a report you will have the option to add a sum or average calculation, as shown below.

In this example, we have opted to sum the estimated value, but average the actual value.

Example KPIs pictured above:

• Matters per practice area
• Total value in pipeline per practice area and per source
• Average revenue per practice area and per source

Remember that any of these custom reports can also be exported to excel, where you can apply more advanced calculations and formulas as needed.

Analytics Page

In addition to building your own custom reports, Lawmatics also provides you with a built-in analytics dashboard for basic firm KPIs and other statistics. You’ll find this page by hovering your mouse on the Insights tab, and then select Analytics.

Dashboard

When you first arrive on the Analytics page you will first see the Leads at a Glance section of the dashboard. Before diving into these stats, first note that you can adjust the date range of this page as a whole. You’ll find this in the top right corner, it defaults to All Time, but you can make a custom date selection accordingly.

Once you have selected your desired date range, all data on the page will update automatically. First, in the Leads at a Glance section you’ll see a quick breakdown of some key statistics for lead intake and conversion.As you scroll down the Analytics page, you will see a number of different graphs and charts for nearly every aspect of your firm. We’ll walk through a few of them here.First, set customized growth goals for new leads and converted clients by clicking the icon highlighted below.

While you can also use custom reporting for reporting on things like leads per practice area or source, the Analytics page gives you a visual breakdown of the same information. This can be great for getting a snapshot view.

Additionally, you’ll find a built-in graph for tracking your appointment show rate by event type. This may provide great insights on performance of different types of meetings you hold with leads and/or clients that you would have never thought to look into before.

Some firms have designated sales people as opposed to (or in addition to) intake staff and paralegals. As with any sales team, it is crucial to be able to track each individual’s conversion rate in order to compensate and incentivize the team. Use the Sales Stats graph to do just that, by viewing a breakdown of conversion stats by sales person.

Stats By Source

Lastly, on the Analytics page you will find the Stats by Source section. This gives you a comprehensive breakdown of key KPI calculations for each of your marketing sources.

In this section you will be able to clearly see an apples to apples comparison of each source, taking into account how much you spent on that source, how many leads came in, the conversion rate, and a breakdown of cost per lead and client.Example KPIs pictured above:

• Total new leads and converted clients by source
• Total revenue and total spend on each source
• Breakdown of cost per lead and cost per client

ROI Tracker

When used in conjunction with the Stats by Source analytics, the ROI Tracker helps complete the full picture of the marketing performance for each of your sources. The tracker takes into account the number of new leads, the conversion rate, and the revenue and spend from each source to give you an ROI calculation.

Marketing Source Spend

Before using the tracker, it is crucial to make sure that you are entering your marketing spend accurately on the marketing settings page. Once you navigate to that page in settings, you can make sure that you have all of your sources entered, along with any relevant campaigns under each source.The marketing spend is logged at a campaign level. Once you have added your campaigns, click the dollar sign icon for each one to enter the spend for that particular campaign.

This spend will be used for calculations not only on the ROI Tracker, but also for the Stats by Source section of the Analytics page.

Matter Values

In order to get insightful ROI results you will also need to make sure you populate the revenue on each matter into the built-in Actual Value field. This step is crucial for making sure you get an accurate return on investment calculation.Remember, you’ll populate both the estimated value and actual value in the details page on any matter.

Put Your Data to Use

While all this data collection and reporting potential is great, the crucial next step to growing your firm is interpreting your KPIs and reports to make insightful decisions about the future of your firm. Instead of just being aware of a marketing source that has low to zero ROI, you now have the insight with Lawmatics to reduce your spend accordingly so you’re not investing in a poorly performing source. Maybe you have always had an idea of which of your practice areas was the most profitable, but now that you have the ability to actually track the exact performance, you may realize that it makes sense to invest more in a different practice area.All of these insights are right at your fingertips with the power of Lawmatics reporting and analytics.

Law school didn’t necessarily prepare you to run a business. If you operate a law firm, you might feel like you’re drowning in marketing jargon and business acronyms and initialisms. One increasingly common industry term is CRM or legal CRM. Here’s everything you need to know about what it means and what it does.

What is CRM?

CRM stands for Customer Relationship Management. A CRM platform is software designed for businesses to organize, track, and analyze data related to their customers: communications, notes, documents, and more. It covers the entire client lifecycle, from marketing and referral sources to soliciting reviews after a service is performed. By consolidating communications, records, and data into one central hub, businesses get both a birds-eye view of their operations and granular details necessary for day-to-day functions. Simply put, a CRM saves time, spares headaches, and impresses customers.If any specific functions of a CRM seem complicated or like a lot of work, just remember that automation is your friend. A quality CRM comes with tools like automations so that your firm can get more done while doing less work.

What are the main types of CRM?

Broadly speaking, there are 4 types of CRM systems on the market: analytical CRM, collaborative CRM, operational CRM, and strategic CRM.

1Analytical CRM

Analytical CRMs focus on using customer data to inform strategic decisions. This may have an emphasis on marketing, such as what ad campaigns drive the most engagement and convert the most prospects into customers. An analytical CRM provides insight into your customers’ behavioral trends, and in doing so identifies current strengths and opportunities. Analytics create a high-level overview necessary for businesses to be responsive to the needs of their customers. Think of an analytical CRM as a way of listening to your customers, only you’re listening to their actions instead of their words. For example, a personal injury firm could use an analytical CRM to optimize its client intake process with a deeper understanding of what causes a prospect to hire their firm.

The benefits of an analytical CRM system are in increased business efficiency. Are your current ad campaigns providing enough return on investment? Is there less demand for one of your services than you previously thought? By diving into the insights of an analytical CRM, you can target leads and prospects with segmented campaigns, increase your ROI, optimize your investments, and create customer journeys that will leave your customers satisfied.

2Collaborative CRM

A collaborative CRM is a tool for internal communications and collaboration. This is most useful if a customer will have contact with several touch points within your business. By keeping up-to-date customer data in one system, businesses can impress more of their customers with a consistent and personalized approach. The data tracked in a collaborative CRM allows your support team to see that they’re not on a call with Client #24601, but with Sandy from Palm Beach who called the billing department last week regarding a recent development in her case. Although a customer may not have a direct interaction with a collaborative CRM system, their customer experience will be shaped by the CRM’s ability to create seamless interactions across all departments. For example, a larger law firm might have a client with multiple matters spanning different practice areas. A collaborative CRM captures and presents a unified story of that client’s relationship with the entire firm. The benefits of a collaborative CRM lie in seamless experiences for both your customers and your staff. Improve real-time communication between silos, and identify opportunities to create a more robust and consistent customer experience.

3Operational CRM

An operational CRM is most concerned with facilitating business operations that grow customer relationships. Whereas an analytical CRM is about ‘seeing’ and a collaborative CRM is about ‘sharing,’ an operational CRM is about ‘doing.’ These typically feature tools like email campaigns, workflow pipelines, and automations for marketing and sales. Operational CRMs often power customer interactions like self-service appointment booking or automatic follow-up emails. A law firm that handles high volumes of consultations might prefer the task-oriented features of an operational CRM.The benefits of an operational CRM come in more personalized experiences for your customers. Automations can personalize emails and other communications with names and relevant information, without your staff needing to do extra work. In fact, your staff will save time because an operational CRM will execute manual, repetitive administrative tasks such as client intake, conflict checking, consultation scheduling, and more. Your staff can instead focus their energies on other aspects of growing the business and delivering quality service to your customers.

4Strategic CRM

A strategic CRM specializes in long term customer relationships. While an analytical CRM focuses on general trend insights, a strategic CRM provides feedback on ongoing relationships. Some common features of a strategic CRM may also be found in collaborative CRMs, like data on previous interactions with a particular customer. If your law firm succeeds because of repeat clients, a strategic CRM tells you why a client keeps coming back.The benefits of a strategic CRM, like with analytical CRMs, are in its ability to form the foundation of data-driven marketing and operations strategies. As an overview of the customer’s journey through a long term relationship, a strategic CRM offers insights on areas like marketing, sales, and customer service.

What CRM is right for me?

The answer depends on the needs of your law firm. Are you looking for a tool that helps customer acquisition? Do you need help creating a marketing strategy? Want to make sharing information easier within your organization? Do you need industry-specific features, like conflict-checking for legal matters?One thing to note: some CRM systems combine features from multiple types of CRM. The only way to know for sure if a CRM is right for you is to try it. If you’re a law firm in search of an analytical, collaborative, or operational CRM, get a demo of Lawmatics today. Our all-in-one CRM for law firms can elevate your firm’s efficiency, organization, and customer service. Lawmatics is the CRM you need it to be.

Technology has transformed virtually every segment of society. No matter their age or where they live, people everywhere use technology to make their daily lives easier. Technology is also becoming increasingly vital in the legal industry. However, according to one recent survey, only 36.7 percent of the lawyers surveyed are satisfied with the technology tools used at their firms. In addition, only 37.1 percent said they had used a new product at their firm in the last month. This data indicates that lawyers generally aren’t pleased with the technology they have, and their firms are not introducing many new tools either. So what software does a law firm really need?

How does software help lawyers?

Technology makes attorneys’ jobs simpler by increasing the availability and value of legal services while decreasing costs. Here are some of the ways technology helps lawyers:

• Improved communications. Technology, such as CRM for law firms, helps lawyers diversify the ways they communicate with clients and colleagues. Communication solutions allow lawyers to communicate via phone, instant messaging, email, web conferencing, and secure client portals whenever and wherever necessary.
• Time savings. According to the 2022 Legal Trends Report, the average U.S. attorney performs only two-and-a-half hours of billable work daily. Technology allows lawyers to automate routine, time-consuming administrative work that takes them away from substantive legal work that requires their skill and expertise.
• Streamlined case management. Digital case management makes it easier for attorneys to share documents with colleagues in the firm when necessary, and web-based case management platforms make them accessible to lawyers working remotely on mobile devices. In addition, case management software allows firms to automate client intake, prioritize client service, and organize documents in one centralized location.
• Leverage analytics. Legal technology enables lawyers to track key analytics and data in a way that’s easy to manage and understand. Solutions allow attorneys to see how close they are to reaching growth objectives and where they need to make changes to create actionable strategies.
• Build online communities. Online communities help those who are disadvantaged and underserved gain access to legal services. These communities allow lawyers and law students to share information and debate issues. Social media platforms like LinkedIn are also becoming an important forum for lawyers to network and collaborate.

New software and platforms are transforming the law profession, and many firms are embracing digital transformation. But first, they must partner with the right provider to gain access to the necessary tools.

What are the different types of law practice management software?

Today’s lawyers, including those setting up a solo practice, implement various technologies, such as document and filing services, secure communication portals, research platforms, and cloud-based organizational software. Here are some common types of law firm technology used by lawyers.

Six types of legal management software

1. Online file storage. Whether attorneys are working remotely or looking for streamlined access to documents anytime and anywhere, cloud-based online file storage tools are critical for lawyers. These platforms protect files from internal and external threats with end-to-end, zero-knowledge encryption.
2. Document management. While paperwork is an inescapable part of practicing law, document automation tools streamline document creation by utilizing information previously collected to populate standard letters and forms and provide safe storage and access to those documents. Systems like Clio Manage offer simple, all-in-one solutions for document generation, organization, and storage.
3. eDiscovery tools. Most discovery is now electronic, which requires technology to streamline the eDiscovery process. Cloud-based eDiscovery software automates thousands of formerly manual steps and processes and offers innovative filtering options to save teams time and effort.
4. Practice management. Predominantly cloud-based, practice management platforms allow lawyers and paralegals to organize and manage court dates, automate cases, calendar events, templates, case files, and more. Firms of all sizes can utilize cloud software for law firms such as these to organize substantial amounts of data into an easily accessible virtual filing cabinet.
5. Cloud-based office suites. Cloud-based platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Suite (G Suite) allow attorneys to access, share, and edit documents, files, and other data from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Documents are stored on a remote cloud service that can be accessed using a web browser.
6. Legal CRM. Legal client relationship management (CRM) software tracks everyone a firm interacts with – clients, vendors, outside counsel, witnesses, and more – to provide an overview of matters, documents, communications, transactions, and billings – through one secure client portal.

Lawmatics CRM: software your law firm needs

Lawmatics CRM for lawyers helps drive efficiency, attract more prospects, increase client engagement, and accelerate your firm’s growth. For more information on how our platform manages the entire legal client journey – step by step – request your free demo today.

2022 has been a whirlwind. Our team has taken massive strides this year, celebrating product milestones like the launches of Conflict Checking, Time and Billing, integrations with partners like Quickbooks and MyCase, and so much more. We’re thankful for every member of the Lawmatics community, from our internal team to our partners and customers. The spirit of collaboration and gratitude make it such a joy to work with our community every day to build the solutions our customers need.As an expression of our gratitude for working with such an amazing team, we hosted a potluck to bring folks together and share food, companionship, and thanks.

We also asked our team members what experience(s) they’re most thankful for in 2022. These were some of their responses:

“I am most thankful for the warmth and energy that I experience everyday when I walk into the office at Lawmatics.”- Matt Spiegel

“I'm thankful for the ability to work in a hybrid/remote environment! My mental health, sleep schedule, and cat back home really appreciate it”- Callie Burns

“I am thankful to be surrounded by such great coworkers and I am thankful and lucky enough to call them my very close friends!”- Kennedy Wickham

“I am most thankful for having gotten to experience all of the fun-filled gatherings, trips, and adventures alongside all of my favorite people this year. Another amazing one in the books!”- Sarah Bottorff

“I am grateful for a lot of different experiences, but I believe working two jobs this year really gave me perspective on how hard my mother and father worked to make sure we had the opportunities we had growing up. I worked two jobs for three months. My mom worked 2 - 3 jobs for at least 6 years from what I can remember, and my dad worked 2 jobs for 2-3 years as well. I am super grateful for the experience because it allowed me to understand how great my parents are! I am forever grateful for my parents’ sacrifices! I am thankful for the experience of working more than one job because it is humbling when you realize how hard working more than one job actually is.”- Cary Robertson

“I'm thankful to be a part of a great company and to work alongside a fantastic group of individuals as we grind for every inch of our success on our way to the throne of legal tech.”- Bobby Orozco

“I am so thankful for all the experiences I get to share with my family and friends both in San Diego and when I go back home to New York! I will always be grateful for getting to spend time with loved ones.”- Clare Struzzi

“In the midst of a lot of changes happening in the world and within my own life, I'm grateful to have a supportive team that values and supports its employees when life is unpredictable and tough. I also really love that I have a team I can depend on, work well with, laugh with, and learn from. I genuinely feel so lucky to work with such an incredible team of people.”- Joanna Alday

“Being rid of Bolsonaro. Was terribly, terribly disappointed in Brazil with him being elected in the first place, but with him being the first brazilian president to be purged out without a re-election through the same democratic means that elected him gives me a fresh breath of hope in us as a society.”- Herick Oliveira

“Running my fist marathon with friends and family there cheering me on.”- Anna Gasperlin

“I am thankful for meeting all of my teammates at Lawmatics. Getting to work side-by-side with everyone is such a privilege. It constantly pushes me to be a better team member and makes me look forward to showing up to work!”- Andrew Field

“I am thankful that my wife and I had the opportunity to travel to Spain and meet my niece! I feel incredibly luck to work for a company that prioritizes a healthy work life balance for its employees.”- Johnny Bissell

“I'm the most thankful for the six months I had to grow as an individual while my spouse was on deployment. In that time I gained confidence, a few great communities, and had the chance to reflect and enjoy my own company. My growth with Lawmatics is a direct reflection of that and I'm so proud to be a part of such a great team.”- Rachel Koscil

“I am most thankful for my first phone call with Monique, she opened up an opportunity that has challenged me time and time again and helps make $$$.”- Eddy Adame

“I am most thankful for the memories I have made this year with some of the greatest people. Being able to live life surrounded by good company is something we could only hope for!”- Connor Brown

“An experience I am thankful for with Lawmatics is when we all went to the "haunted" trail. It's great to be able to see your team outside of work and bond over having to embark on a journey of terror and delight. The happy hour drinks helped too! Hahaha, but truly... I am thankful to experience such a collaborative, creative, and motivated team that wants to build each other up and be team players. Culture is everything, and I feel incredibly thankful to be a part of Lawmatics. Cheers to more memories to come!”- Julia Anderson

“This year has brought me in fact two experiences that stood out, and for which I am incredibly thankful. I have received amazing opportunities for growth as a professional, as I developed my craft and earned new responsibilities at Lawmatics. I am surrounded by a very special group of people and without them, none of these accomplishments would have been possible. I also recently had the opportunity to visit my family and friends back in my home country after several years apart, which meant a lot to me. I look back to 2022 and feel my heart warm in gratitude.”- Erika Beaudette

“From a company events standpoint, seeing the Padres game from the Western Metal box. From a general standpoint, having the ability to work from the mountain remotely and rip snowboarding runs between work blocks.”- Eric Nelson

“I'm thankful that I got this job and also that I was able to experience Italy when I've never been to Europe!”- Dominic Viola

“I'm thankful that Lawmatics gave me a job.”- Ian Thorleifson

“Grateful for all the cool people I get to work with!!!”- Nihal Razak

“Being consistently productive at work during this year and being able to save some money throughout the months.”- Leandro Camargo

“I am most thankful for being able to take my dream vacation to the Maldives for my honeymoon! It was the trip of a lifetime that I will never forget!”- Monique Padilla

“I am most thankful for getting the job at Lawmatics this year. I have never felt this appreciated, supported, or encouraged in any other job. Not only is my team incredibly kind and supportive, the entire company has welcomed me and encouraged me to succeed. I am so very thankful for being able to work at this phenomenal company.”- Enid Migault

“I am thankful for all the memories I made with my coworkers this year!”- Ryan Brown