Considering the rapid pace at which technology continues to advance, it’s more important than ever for lawyers and law firms to stay ahead of the curve. COVID-19 has shaped the way law firms utilize tech, and the necessity of remote-work capabilities during the pandemic will continue to increase efficiency and client accessibility for years to come.
Legal Tech: A Broad Definition
So, what exactly is “legal tech?” Legal tech can refer to any type of software or technology that helps lawyers with their work. This can include simple tools like document management software or complex artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
No matter what type of legal tech your firm is using, the goal is always the same: To make your life as a lawyer easier and help you secure the best possible results for your clients.
Trend 1: Smart Analytics for Legal Processes
As data becomes increasingly available, the use of analytics in the legal space is on the rise. By using data to identify patterns and extract insights, lawyers can make better-informed decisions and optimize outcomes. Analytics can be used to conduct market analyses, identify judicial trends, analyze financial data, improve client intake, and enhance case management.
Trend 2: Administration Automation
Administrative tasks may be straightforward, but they sure do take up a lot of time! Automating as much of this work as possible can free up valuable time and resources that can be better spent on billable work. Software solutions such as Clio can automate repetitive tasks such as client intake, expense tracking, data entry, and case management can help law firms to boost efficiency and improve their bottom line.
Trend 3: Cloud-Based Remote Working Tools
More and more law firms are going remote or partially remote. When integrated effectively, cloud-based tools can help lawyers keep tabs on their cases from anywhere. Cloud-based tools include document management systems that allow lawyers to access and securely share documents digitally, online time tracking and billing tools, and cloud project management tools.
Matching the right legal tech with the needs of your firm can be difficult due to the ever-expanding legal tech market. You can start by considering the needs of your law firm, your clientele, your workflow, and your budget. When it comes to marketing and other essential aspects of your practice, contact us to discuss the best ways to integrate cutting-edge legal tech at your firm.