Legal Practice Management Systems - The What, Why, Which
If you’re thinking about starting your own law firm or have already done so, one thing that you might be giving thought to is whether your firm will operate practice management software. You might wonder do we really need it? Is it worth the cost? Will it make things easier? If the answer you came up with is yes, yes, yes, then your next step is working out what the right practice management system looks like to you.
As a seasoned lawyer, you’ve likely worked in a few different law firms and have probably seen and used your share of good and bad software and systems that all more or less get the job done. But now that you’ve launched your own firm, making the right decision is down to you. Whatever you choose has to work with what you need.
When considering the various practice management systems out there, have a general idea of exactly what you’re looking for. Do you want to be able to track time? Do you want to be able to automate documents? Do you need trust accounting? Billing? Do you want a client portal so that clients can access and share document? Do you want cloud based software? Case management by matter type? Integration with other systems such as InfoTrack?
There are plenty of options when it comes to legal practice management systems, each with different features and benefits. Here’s a quick overview of some of those systems:
1. Actionstep
Actionstep is a cloud-based legal practice management solution designed for growing and midsize firms. Being completely cloud-based means that the system can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, is accessible on both Mac and PC desktops as well as mobile devices. In addition, there are numerous integrations available with various external systems including Microsoft Office and Gmail, Xero, InfoTrak and HotDocs.
There are multiple tools to make managing matters (or actions as they are referred to in the system) easy as pie, including email management (each matter has its own inbox and outbox), calendar management, the ability to run conflict checks; client billing, as well as enabling firms to fully customise and automate their workflow, helping lawyers to become more efficient in their work. Another great feature of the system is its client-facing portal, which allows clients to access an online portal from where they can view their matter related information, make payments, track deadlines and more.
https://www.actionstep.com/au/
2. Leap
The LEAP Practice Management Platform is a legal practice and case management software designed for solo and small law firms. The integrated system includes legal document management, matter management, time recording, legal billing, trust accounting, and more. The mobile app for iOS and Android devices make this a great option for the location independent practitioner.
A particularly useful feature available with LEAP as an add on is LawConnect. LawConnect is a secure document management system for law firms and their clients, providing a secure environment to collaborate with both co-workers and clients in real-time. A cloud-based product, documents are safely stored in an organised location which can be accessed from anywhere, any time.
https://www.leap.com.au
3. Clio
Clio is another system that provides offers end to end legal practice management at your fingertips. Designed with the legal office in mind, Clio can help lawyers manage their operations, information and documentation, client and matter management, appointments, time tracking and more. Clio also offers a host of integrated apps in their App Directory, making it simple to find and connect withleading apps such as Microsoft Office 365, Box, Zapier, QuickBooks Online and more.
https://www.clio.com
4. Dubsado
This one’s a little bit different in that it’s not marketed as a legal practice management system however it is an credible alternative.
A cloud-based CRM that gives lawyers the ability to automate workflows, track leads, manage and automate invoices and contracts as well as housing a client facing portal. It’s easy to use and customise to align with your unique branding. Just add in your logo and branding colours on a proposal, change the questions on your client questionnaires or customise contract templates to suit your business and goals.
https://www.dubsado.com
5. Absolute Trust & Office Management (ATOM)
ATOM is a cloud based integrated trust and office account solution, developed to provide a simplified accounting option for sole practitioners and small firms without the resources to engage a full-time accounts department.
ATOM is an online system, accessible anywhere with an internet connection, allowing you to login anywhere, anytime and is certified by the Law Society of NSW.
So there you have it. If you’ve decided that legal practice management software is for you, do your research, ask your colleagues what has worked for them and sign up for trials and see for yourself which one best fits your law firm’s needs.
Choosing a system that simplifies rather than complicates is the aim of the game and embracing the right tools and technology will help set your firms focus on better assisting your clients.
So what about you? Are you currently weighing up different practice management systems? Or have you already found a great system? Comment below, I’d love to hear what you love or don’t love about your current system.