It’s now more important than ever to embrace technology tools for lawyers that support remote work. Successful law firms are leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, bolster security and take their work-from-home efforts to the next level. 

The ideal tech stack varies based on firm size, practice area and specific needs. Starting with essential tools and gradually incorporating specialized ones can transform your practice. 

Let’s explore 12 key technology tools that thriving law firms are using right now in the post-pandemic world.

1. eDiscovery Tools: Streamlining Discovery Processes

Electronic discovery, or eDiscovery, is now the norm. Tools like Logikcull’s cloud-based Instant Discovery software automate manual steps and offer smart filtering options, saving time and effort in the discovery process.

2. E-Signature Tools: Accelerating Workflows Securely

Electronic signatures are efficient and secure. Tools like DocuSign offer an easy online document signing platform, simplifying document execution and providing a user-friendly experience for both lawyers and clients.

3. Video Conferencing Software: Facilitating Remote Collaboration

Secure and user-friendly video conferencing tools support virtual meetings, a necessity in today’s environment. Consider a tool like Legaler, which offers end-to-end encryption and a simple user interface, to protect client confidentiality when meeting in person isn’t an option.

4. Document Management and Online File Storage: Secure Collaboration Anywhere

Online file storage tools are indispensable for lawyers working remotely or seeking streamlined document access. With 79 percent of lawyers relying on cloud technology for data storage, tools like Dropbox lead the way. According to the ABA Legal Technology Survey Report, 67 percent of lawyers prefer Dropbox, emphasizing its popularity and reliability.

Document automation tools streamline document creation, while legal practice management software like LawCloud offers an all-in-one solution. These tools simplify document storage, retrieval and organization, making paperwork less tedious.

5. Word Processors: Elevating Document Drafting

Constantly drafting documents and letters, lawyers benefit from cloud-based word processors. Microsoft 365, with Word and other productivity tools, ranks high, securing second place as the most-used cloud-based service for lawyers (49 percent, ABA Legal Technology Survey Report). Integration with other tools enhances productivity and collaboration.

6. Scanners: Digitizing Documents for Accessibility

Digitizing documents is crucial, and a reliable scanner or a scanner app like Evernote simplifies this process. As lawyers deal with mountains of papers daily, having easy access to digitized documents from anywhere can drastically improve productivity.

7. Practice Management Software: Centralizing Firm Operations

Essential for smaller firms, practice management software centralizes and streamlines firm management, case organization and client collaboration. The trend toward cloud-based solutions is evident with lawyers planning to use practice management software post-pandemic.

Potential options for your firm include Capterra and PracticePanther.

8. Online Payments: Accelerating Financial Transactions

Accepting online payments through platforms ensures convenience for clients and faster payment processing. During the pandemic, firms accepting electronic payments experienced more growth compared to those that didn’t, highlighting the positive impact on business performance. 

Consider using LawPay, a service that is “available through all 50 state bars, 60+ local and specialty bars, and the ABA as a vetted and recommended payment solution for the legal industry.”

9. Client Intake and CRM: Streamlining the Onboarding Process

Client intake and CRM solutions facilitate efficient onboarding by allowing tasks like form filling, fee payments and consultation bookings to be handled online. Firms using these solutions experienced better year-over-year performance, particularly during the initial months of the pandemic.

Check out HubSpot, ZoHo CRM or Law Ruler, to name a few options.

10. VOIP Phone Provider: Stay Connected Anywhere

Voice over internet protocol (VOIP) phone services ensure lawyers remain reachable at their business numbers, regardless of location. Remote call answering ensures business continuity and excellent client service.

If you want to learn more about the potential of hosted phone systems for your firm, check out our VoIP offerings.

11. Time Tracking and Billing Solutions: Boosting Profitability

One of the most underrated technology tools for lawyers is time tracking and billing software. Accurate time tracking and billing are vital for law firm profitability. Practice management software like Clockify includes features for legal time and expense tracking, streamlining billing processes and improving overall productivity.

12. Mobile Apps: Boosting Productivity On the Go

Mobile apps enable lawyers to work from anywhere. These apps enhance document review, keep professionals informed on industry trends and provide on-the-go access to critical case information. Two apps we recommend include iAnnotate, which allows you to review and annotate documents on the go, and Feedly, which can keep you informed on trending content in an easy-to-read format.

Security and Ethics Considerations: Prioritizing Data Protection

Before you start adopting these new tools, ensuring security and compliance with ethical obligations is critical to your success. A thorough evaluation of each tool’s security features is crucial to prevent potential harm to law firm and client data.

And, keep in mind, if you’re not aware of the latest phishing prevention tips, a business email compromise cyberattack could be devastating. Check out our phishing prevention cheat sheet for more info on how to secure your firm.

Embracing Top Technology Tools for Lawyers

Incorporating the right technology tools for lawyers can significantly impact your law firm’s growth, making operations more efficient, profitable and client-centered. While the array of available tools may seem overwhelming, adopting them gradually based on your firm’s needs is a strategic approach. 

If you’re excited by the prospect of revolutionizing the way your firm operates with a new IT project but aren’t sure where to start, contact us or book a meeting with one of our legal technologists today.

Embrace these tools, watch your firm thrive and position yourself at the forefront of legal innovation.