Automating routine work items such as billing, document management, and other administrative duties has many benefits for law practice management. It can also assist lawyers and paralegals in avoiding mistakes. This software may be cloud-based, enabling it to work with current legal technology. It’s also crucial to periodically review your procedures.
Re-evaluating your processes over time
One of the benefits of process automation software for law firms is the ability to customize it. With various features to choose from, automation tools can be customized to fit the unique needs of each law firm. Using feedback to determine how your processes could be improved can also help you save time and money.
First, law firms must understand their processes. Tools like process mapping and value stream mapping can help law firms identify opportunities for improvement. Creating value stream maps, popularized by lean six sigma, allows you to analyze different processes and see where they could use improvement. With this method, you can more easily see the techniques you are currently using and edit them as needed.
Another benefit of process automation software for law firms is the ability to automate tasks such as completing client intake forms. Automated intake forms enable clients to submit them online. Some firms automate this process by sending them to a standardized intake form page, which syncs with the firm’s law practice management software.
Document automation software
Document automation software can help lawyers and paralegals avoid errors and save time. Legal documents are often filled with information that is only sometimes accurate. Still, document automation software such as HotDocs can help paralegals and lawyers avoid errors by automatically inserting relevant information into documents. It can save time because legal documents can be filed sparingly. It can also help ensure that documents follow internal brand guidelines and avoid legal problems related to non-compliant content.
Document automation software can speed up the document creation process and increase productivity. David Brickman, CEO of Rocket Docket, and Korey Lawrence, founder of AbacusNext, say that a document created manually requires three hours of editing and is prone to six errors. However, if a copy can be made automatically, it can save paralegals time and improve profitability.
The use of document automation software can also reduce errors. Paralegals and attorneys don’t have to rewrite documents from scratch, allowing them to focus more time on intellectually challenging work. Document automation software can also be helpful for law firms when lawyers leave their firms. It helps them quickly onboard new attorneys.
Cloud-based workflow automation software
Whether you’re a solo practitioner or have hundreds of attorneys, you can streamline your workflow by deploying document automation software. These tools can simplify document creation, discovery, signatures, and deadline management. Best of all, cloud options are flexible and easier to deploy.
Some top options are integrated with practice management software such as Clio. For instance, Soluno is an excellent choice for lawyers because it can integrate with popular practice management software like Clio. Others include Logikcull, which can sift through large volumes of discoverable data and discard irrelevant information. Other features include integrated finance tools, such as general ledger and accounts payable, and mobile time entry.
Cloud-based workflow automation software can improve your practice’s efficiency. Unlike the older-style paper-based workflows, cloud-based workflow automation software can be used without changes to your existing legal technology. You can use it for both internal and external tasks. You can even use it to manage your client intake.
