The Lawmatics Blog

Every attorney starts with big dreams — freedom, flexibility, and success. But without the right systems, those ambitions can quickly get buried under paperwork, client management, and long hours. The grind can take over, leaving little room for growth or balance. It’s a familiar story for many, but it doesn’t have to stay that way.In this webinar, lawyer and attorney coach Jordan Ostroff shows exactly how he flipped that script using Lawmatics, transforming his practice from grind to growth. From strategic data tracking to creating an intake process that attracts quality clients, he gives you the roadmap to level up your own firm.

Time Stamps of Key Takeaways

0:00 — Meet your speakers!

Your Lawmatics host is Director of Customer Success Johnny Bissell, who’s been at Lawmatics since almost the very beginning. He introduces himself along with Jordan, who consults law firms on operational best practices, in addition to running his own law practice.

9:58 — Metrics matter

Jordan kicks things off by talking about how numbers shape his law firm’s business strategy — and why it works. He offers advice on how to determine which key performance indicators (KPIs) are actually key for a firm like his. Johnny then demonstrates how to build custom reports in Lawmatics to visualize the most relevant data for a law firm.

22:13 — Better client experiences = more referrals

Next, Jordan shares some examples of different engagement strategies for generating referrals, from setting up recurring tasks to creating email campaigns delivered to segmented audiences. Johnny then demonstrates how you can create booking links specifically for coordinating meetings with referral partners in Lawmatics.

34:58 — Lead quality > lead quantity

An effective intake (or sales) pipeline isn’t just about the quantity of leads; it’s about the quality of leads. But how can quality leads — the people your firm is best equipped to help — find out about your firm and decide that you’re the best option? Here, Jordan explains his approach for nurturing these leads both before and after the consultation. Then, Johnny sets up automations to provide leads with information before and their appointment.

50:04 — Wow clients every time

Experience is king. The most competitive law firms provide clients with quick, easy, and personal experiences at every stage of the client journey. In this section, Johnny dives deep into automations that keep leads moving through the pipeline with personalized messages and regular updates.

56:25 — Happy clients stay clients

Client relationships don’t end when their matter has concluded. They might be back in the future with another matter, refer friends to your firm, or leave an online review about their experience. Newsletters are a great way to stay top of mind for former clients, as Jordan explains before Johnny builds an example newsletter in the Lawmatics email builder.

Webinar slide deck

Let's face it: A disorganized practice can feel like herding cats while juggling flaming torches. Missed appointments, paper trails that go nowhere, and potential clients slipping through the cracks are common stress points that keep you up at night. Our recent Deep Dive webinar was all about how we can tackle these challenges together.Whether you're new to Lawmatics or just looking to sharpen your skills, this webinar showed how mastering the basics of our CRM can make a monumental impact on your practice. Imagine slashing intake times in half, reducing no-show rates, and converting leads twice as fast. That's the kind of game-changing efficiency we’re talking about!

Time Stamps of Key Takeaways

0:00 — Getting started

Meet your host, Clare Struzzi! Clare is our account management team lead, and an expert at getting law firms up and running on Lawmatics. Here, she outlines the agenda for the session, which is to recreate a typical first onboarding session for new Lawmatics customers.

5:47 — General settings

The general settings page is always the place to start with a new account. Clare starts with user settings like creating your email signature and connecting your calendar. Then, she moves into firm settings, where your firm’s chief Lawmatics user can fill in practice-specific information, like office locations and branded document headers.

18:55 — Organizing the pipeline

The pipeline is what keeps a prospect moving through the intake process, from marketing all the way to signing their engagement agreement and beyond — so it’s important to spend time making sure it’s built for your firm’s needs. Clare shows how to create each stage of your pipeline, and even create different pipelines for each of your firm’s practice areas.

29:39 — Appointments and events

Next, Clare walks through how to create appointment types, from setting the duration of each meeting type to the default rate the firm will charge for each. Then, she uses the email builder to write reminder and confirmation messages for these appointments, incorporating custom fields that tailor each message to each client.

44:00 — Phone intake form

Forms are an invaluable tool for collecting information about your clients and matters. In this final section, Clare builds an example of a form an intake specialist would use for intake by phone. She explains the differences between standard and custom fields, as well as how to make forms dynamic by incorporating options like a self-service booking calendar at the end of the form.

If you're looking to grow your law firm in 2024, digital marketing is non-negotiable. The era of relying on referrals and print ads is fading fast. Digital marketing for law firms has quickly become the new standard for reaching and engaging clients, setting the bar for how modern law firms grow and stay competitive. And with the rapid advancements in AI, personalized content, and data-driven marketing, your firm needs to stay ahead. According to a Forbes digital marketing prediction, marketing spend is increasingly shifting toward digital channels, with a staggering 54% of total marketing budgets allocated to digital in 2024. But the real question is: What’s the most effective way to leverage digital marketing for your law firm?

What Are the Benefits of Digital Marketing for Lawyers?

In 2024, the benefits of digital marketing for lawyers go beyond just visibility. It’s about agility, precision, and personalization. With more people turning to online resources when searching for legal help, digital marketing helps you reach those individuals exactly when and where they need you most. Here’s what makes digital marketing essential for law firms today:

• Hyper-Targeting: Platforms like Google and social media offer unprecedented targeting capabilities. Want to reach potential clients in a 10-mile radius who just searched for “personal injury attorney”? Done.
• Cost Efficiency: Digital marketing is more budget-friendly and scalable than traditional methods. According to a 2023 HubSpot report, businesses using digital content marketing see 62% lower cost per lead compared to traditional methods.
• Real-Time Adjustments: No more waiting weeks for feedback on whether your campaign worked. With tools like Google Analytics and heat maps, you can optimize your strategy on the fly, making quick pivots to ensure your campaigns are always on point.

The digital landscape gives law firms the power to target exactly who they want to reach with measurable results, allowing for growth without wasting time or money.

What Are the Top 7 Types of Digital Marketing?

With so many options in 2024, which digital marketing types should your law firm focus on? Let’s break down the 7 types of digital marketing that will help you stand out in a crowded market:

1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Still a cornerstone of digital marketing, SEO remains critical for getting your firm found by clients who need your services. Optimize for voice searches, too—almost 30% of web browsing in 2024 is expected to happen without a screen.
2. Pay-Per-Click (PPC): Whether it’s Google Ads or retargeting ads, PPC delivers immediate visibility. In fact, Wordstream reports that law firms see a 7% higher conversion rate than other industries using PPC.
3. Content Marketing: Blogging, whitepapers, case studies—these don’t just provide valuable information, but they also position your firm as an authority in your field. In 2024, expect clients to engage more with video content and interactive blogs.
4. Social Media Marketing: While LinkedIn remains a hub for professional networking, platforms like Instagram and even TikTok are becoming viable spaces for law firms to showcase their unique culture and success stories.
5. Email Marketing: Personalized emails are far from dead—in fact, Campaign Monitor revealed that email marketing generates a $42 return for every dollar spent, making it one of the most profitable digital marketing strategies.
6. Video Marketing: Lawyers who utilize video marketing—whether it’s short educational clips or client testimonials—are seeing higher engagement rates across all platforms. Video content consumption is expected to grow by 14% in 2024.
7. Webinars and Online Workshops: Educational webinars remain a hot ticket for attracting leads. If you’re not already hosting webinars on legal topics, you’re leaving potential clients on the table.

Which Type of Digital Marketing Is Most Effective?

Which digital marketing channel reigns supreme? It really depends on your firm’s goals. But in 2024, SEO and PPC still lead the pack for generating immediate and long-term leads. SEO is especially powerful when you’re playing the long game, helping your firm organically rise to the top of search results. However, PPC is unbeatable for instant visibility, especially for high-intent searches like “divorce attorney near me.”For law firms looking to dominate their niche, video marketing is also gaining traction, with Wyzowl’s 2024 report noting that 91% of businesses use video as a marketing tool for their brand. The legal industry is no exception. Short, engaging videos can set you apart in an otherwise text-heavy space.

Which Digital Marketing Strategy Is Best for Law Firms?

In 2024, the best digital marketing strategy for law firms is an integrated one. Relying on a single tactic will limit your reach and your results. Here’s how to craft a well-rounded approach:

• Optimize for Local Search: Ensure your firm appears in local search results, especially on Google Maps. An optimized Google Business Profile will help you capture nearby leads who are actively searching for legal services.
• Use PPC to Boost Immediate Traffic: PPC campaigns targeting specific keywords like “immigration lawyer in [city]” ensure your ads reach people when they’re ready to hire an attorney.
• Leverage Content Marketing for Authority: Regularly post content that answers potential clients’ most pressing questions. Focus on long-form blog posts and videos to establish your firm as a leader in your practice area.
• Retain Clients with Email Marketing: Keep past clients informed and engaged through email newsletters, offering legal updates or tips that position you as their go-to legal expert.

By combining these strategies, your law firm will attract new clients, retain them, and build long-lasting relationships—all while maximizing ROI. For even more insights on digital advertising strategies for law firms, this comprehensive Digital Advertising Playbook breaks down everything you need to know to drive growth and maximize ROI.

Conclusion

The future of law firm growth is digital, and the sooner you embrace it, the better positioned you'll be to thrive. From SEO and PPC to video marketing, each piece plays a role in driving visibility and engagement for your firm. If you're ready to elevate your digital marketing game, Lawmatics has the tools to help you seamlessly manage your marketing efforts. Request a demo today to see how we can help you grow your practice in 2024 and beyond.

In today's fiercely competitive legal market, firms are progressively embracing digital marketing not only to survive but to thrive. Whether it’s building relationships, showcasing expertise, or simply keeping your firm in the client's mind, digital marketing offers a buffet of options tailored to the unique needs of legal professionals. But among a plethora of strategies, which should your firm prioritize? Let's dig into one of the best digital marketing strategies for law firms and see why email marketing could be your ace in the hole.

Do Law Firms Need Digital Marketing?

Absolutely, yes! Think of digital marketing as the modern-day courthouse steps. It’s where opinions are formed, reputations are built, and much of the public conversation around legal issues takes place. Without a solid digital marketing strategy, even the most skilled law firms may struggle to get noticed in a sea of competitors.Digital marketing is not just about being found. It’s about being found and valued. It’s about telling your firm’s story in a way that resonates with your prospective clients. It empowers firms to communicate directly with both potential and existing clients, create meaningful interactions, and build a community around their services.

Do Law Firms Use Email Marketing?

Many do, and for good reason! Email marketing for law firms is like the Swiss Army knife of digital marketing tools—it’s versatile, powerful, and when used correctly, incredibly effective. In fact, email marketing is one of the most cost-effective channels available — boasting an average ROI of $42 for every $1 spent.Through personalized communication, law firms can nurture leads, update clients about new laws or regulations, share success stories, and foster relationships that might be too costly to manage through in-person meetings alone.According to the ABA 2023 Legal Technology Survey, only about 32% or respondents reported using email marketing as part of their overall marketing strategy. This indicates a growing recognition of email's ability to deliver targeted messages efficiently to various client segments.Moreover, a 2021 study by HubSpot found that segmented email campaigns can result in a 760% increase in revenue, highlighting the importance of personalized content in legal marketing.[oxygen-template id="9105"]

Who is the Target Audience of Email Marketing

In the context of law firms, the target audience for email marketing can be quite diverse, encompassing:

• Previous clients who might need legal services again
• Potential clients who have shown interest through consultations or web inquiries
• Professional peers who may provide referrals
• Local or online communities interested in legal topics covered by the firm’s expertise

Abiding by privacy laws and regulations, email marketing allows firms to address the specific needs and interests of different groups through segmentation and tailored content, making it a potent tool for engagement and conversion.

Is it Legal to Do Email Marketing?

Yes, but it comes with a playbook to follow. Laws such as the CAN-SPAM Act in the U.S. set the rules of the game. These laws mandate transparency, choice, and privacy protections for recipients. This means no misleading subject lines, a visible opt-out option, and clear identification of your message as an advertisement. As long as law firms adhere to these guidelines, email marketing remains not only legal but ethically sound.

What Are Some Email Marketing Strategies for Law Firms?

Incorporating effective strategies within your emails can significantly uplift your firm’s engagement and client conversion rates. Here are a few examples of email marketing for law firms to consider:

• Educational Content: Share insights into common legal issues or recent changes in law that may affect clients.
• Case Studies and Testimonials: Build trust and credibility by highlighting stories of how your firm has helped clients in the past.
• Upcoming Seminars or Webinars: Invite leads to free, valuable discussions on relevant legal topics.
• Personal Milestones: Celebrate firm anniversaries or introduce new team members to create a personal connection.

Templates and tools, like a law firm email marketing template, streamline the process, maintaining brand consistency and reducing the time needed to create compelling emails.

What Tool Can Help Create the Best Email Marketing for Law Firms?

Choosing the right tool can be a game-changer. You need a platform that’s intuitive, robust, and tailor-made for legal marketers. Lawmatics emerges as a front-runner in this arena. Our all-in-one marketing solution is designed with law firms in mind, simplifying campaign management and analytics so you can focus on what you do best—practicing law.Interested in seeing how Lawmatics can transform your firm’s digital marketing efforts? Request a demo today! Let’s help you build a communication bridge that brings your clients closer, one email at a time.

You wouldn’t set sail without a course—so why run a law firm without any clear KPIs? Custom dashboards are your navigational charts, guiding you through the sea of data toward smarter, more strategic decisions.In the latest Deep Dive Webinar, Product Manager Devon Roth delves into how these custom dashboard data visualizations can revolutionize your law firm's efficiency. This session covers everything from building new custom dashboards for immediate data access to tailoring them for showcasing the metrics that matter most, all aimed at enabling better operational decisions with actionable data insights.

Time Stamps of Key Takeaways

0:00 — Getting started

The webinar kicks off with an explanation of how custom dashboards differ from our legacy dashboard, and how you can alternate between the two. Devon also outlines some of the key (and surprising!) benefits of customizing your dashboard layout, from boosting client engagement to tailoring your marketing strategy.

6:17 — Choose your panel types

Devon first surveys all of the different panels firms can use to organize their information. Firms use these panel types to review things like notes, tasks, upcoming appointments, outstanding e-signatures, and more. She then offers a demonstration of how to format the page, resize panels, and even divide your dashboard layout by practice area.

18:55 — Understanding panel visualizations

Next, Devon focuses specifically on the data panel. From conversion rates to the value of cases in your pipeline, these analytical indicators are the cornerstone of guiding your firm toward increased profitability. She demonstrates a few panel setups that enable you to keep an eye on the intake pipeline, ensuring no potential client gets stuck between stages.

24:08 — How to use reports on dashboards

While some of the other panel types only show standard fields, data panels can pull insights from any of your custom matter reports. In this section, Devon walks through how to set up data visualizations that show the specific granular criteria you need to keep front and center for your firm.

42:31 — Organizing group panels

Finally, Devon quickly shows the click-and-drag customization options with the group panel type. You can select any panels already on your custom dashboards and bunch them together, grouping insights by practice area, matter type, or time period.

A client intake form , often found on a law firm’s website, is used by law firms and legal professionals to gather essential information from potential clients during the initial consultation or intake process. The form helps attorneys understand the client's situation, assess the case, and determine whether they can provide the necessary legal services.While you can manually create an effective legal client intake form tailored to your practice’s needs, legal client intake automation will simplify the process and allow you to customize your intake form based upon practice area and other factors.

What are the benefits of a client intake form?

A legal client intake form offers numerous benefits for both the legal practice and the client. Here are some of the advantages it provides for the law firm:

• Efficiency and organization. An intake form automates the collection of essential information, reducing the time spent on initial consultations. It also ensures that all necessary information is gathered consistently from every client.
• Improved case assessment. The comprehensive information collected provides a complete overview of the client’s situation. This enables better initial case assessment and helps identify potential conflicts of interest or other issues early in the process.
• Enhanced client management. The intake form centralizes client information for easy access and management and facilitates timely follow-ups and reminders, improving client communication.
• Risk Management. A documented record of initial client interactions can be useful for reference and compliance purposes.
• Conflict Checking. The information provided on an intake form helps firms conduct a thorough conflict of interest check before taking on a new client.
• Professionalism. A well-designed intake form presents a positive first impression to potential clients by demonstrating that the firm is organized and thorough.Client Confidence: Instills confidence in clients that their case will be handled systematically and professionally.

Here are some of the benefits the intake form provides for legal clients:

• Clear Communication. Clients understand what information is required, which helps them provide comprehensive details about their case. The intake form also provides clarity regarding the information needed and the initial steps of the legal process.
• Time-Saving. Clients can gather and prepare necessary documents and information before the consultation. This reduces the time spent during the initial meeting, as basic information is already collected.
• Transparency. The intake form gives clients an overview of what to expect, which can reduce anxiety and confusion. Financial sections provide preliminary insights into potential costs and payment structures.
• Personal Representation. When a prospective client fills out an intake form and gives the lawyer all pertinent details, it allows lawyers to tailor their services to the specific needs and circumstances of each client.

A legal client intake form is a crucial tool that benefits both lawyers and clients by improving efficiency, communication, and overall service quality. Legal intake software allows firms to customize each step of the client intake process, following up, scheduling appointments, requesting documents, obtaining e-signatures, and more.

What is a typical intake form example for a law firm?

A typical intake form for a law firm is structured to collect comprehensive information about the client and their legal issue. It should be comprehensive and cover all essential aspects needed for a law firm to evaluate a new client and their case effectively. It typically includes sections to collect client information, details about their legal issue, insurance coverage, potential conflicts of interest, and evidence in their possession.

Automated client intake technology provides client intake templates that allow firms to customize their intake form based on specific needs and practice areas. By only asking relevant questions, they can tailor a client’s experience based on how they answer.

How do I make an intake form?

You can manually create an intake form, or you can lighten your load—and optimize your clients’ experience—with form automation solutions and workflows personalized to your firm’s areas of practice or types of cases.The more details that are requested on an intake form, the better a lawyer can qualify a lead before setting an appointment. Lawmatics client intake software allows users to build customized templates that can be reworked for each practice area and inputted directly into the law firm’s database, making the process faster and less error-prone. With Lawmatics, your firm will be able to:

• Build custom intake forms for clients.
• Collect documents from your clients electronically.
• Enable clients to access your calendar to schedule meetings.
• Eliminate lengthy back-and-forths with e-signature capability.
• Establish a clear and consistent intake process.

Are you ready to take the stress out of client intake with custom forms and a streamlined process? Sign up for a product demo today.