4 Ways Lawyers Can Use Technology to Keep Case Info Organized

4 Ways Lawyers Can Use Technology to Keep Case Info Organized

The legal sector is typically known for its traditional working practices, so the idea of legal technology might not seem intuitive at first. However, some predict trends drastically disrupting this profession and how it is approached. In particular, to meet demands for productivity through an increase of workflow, law firms should consider investing in legal technology services to help rise to the occasion.

1. Legal Tech Keeps You On Track

You can use legal technology to gather information about the facts of a case and deliver the questions to a client as quickly as possible. For example, if your client has been accused of a particular crime, technology enables you to research similar cases in the past and track their outcomes. Tech can also play a role in court strategy by helping lawyers outline opening and closing statements.

Quick access to answers is another essential perk. Most lawyers can recall at least one client who kept calling back and taking up a lot of time with their questions, but well-integrated technology can eliminate such trammel.

2. Legal Tech Fosters Better Client Relationships

Not only will you have the answers to your client’s questions right away, but you can also keep better tabs on their situations during a charge. That makes it much easier for the client and its defense firm to keep up and communicate. Say, for example, that you have a client who is too embarrassed to tell you about his financial difficulties. However, removing the perceived in-person judgment makes him feel more comfortable sharing via text.

3. Legal Tech Can Assist in Due Diligence

Once, legal due diligence meant junior lawyers spent all weekend going through boxes and boxes of paperwork. Thanks to the advancement of legal technology, you’re no longer bound to these mountains of paperwork. Instead, digital databases, including dockets, FEIN numbers, or other legal filings, house the information.

Tapping into AI can also help analyze this information quickly, retrieving all the information relevant to a particular case and summarizing the contents into a simple digest.

4. Legal Tech Manages Massive Amounts of Data

Speaking of databases, that’s another essential perk to legal tech. Documents can be automatically categorized conveniently using an integrated system that provides accurate and comprehensive results in seconds. It can also be set up to reveal which users accessed, edited, or signed a document, giving convenience and necessary safety guards. Furthermore, this technology tends to be highly adaptable to other products, which means you can access more than one database with just one query.

5. Streamline Case Management with Cloud-Based Platforms

  • Centralized Access: Cloud-based platforms like Clio or PracticePanther allow lawyers to store case files, deadlines, and client communications in one secure, centralized location. This ensures that the entire team can access updated information anytime, anywhere.
  • Collaboration: These platforms promote seamless collaboration between team members, enabling real-time updates and reducing redundancy.

6. Automate Repetitive Tasks

  • Document Automation: Legal technology can automate the creation of standard contracts, agreements, or pleadings, saving hours of manual drafting. Tools like HotDocs or Lawyaw can help generate error-free documents in minutes.
  • Scheduling Tools: Calendar management tools can send automated reminders for court appearances, deadlines, or meetings, reducing the risk of missed events.

7. Enhance Research Efficiency

  • AI-Powered Tools: Platforms like Casetext or ROSS Intelligence use AI to analyze legal precedents, summarize case law, and provide relevant suggestions. These tools save time and help uncover details that might otherwise be missed.
  • Data Analytics: Lawyers can predict potential outcomes and craft stronger strategies by analyzing trends and patterns in previous cases.

8. Secure Sensitive Information with Advanced Cybersecurity

  • Encryption and Permissions: Legal tech ensures that sensitive documents are encrypted and access is restricted to authorized users.
  • Secure Communication: Tools like encrypted messaging apps or secure client portals enable confidential discussions without risking data breaches.
  • Disaster Recovery: Cloud-based solutions often include automatic backups, reducing the risk of data loss from technical failures or cyberattacks.

9. Improve Billing and Invoicing

  • Time Tracking: Legal billing software like TimeSolv or Bill4Time can automatically track billable hours, ensuring invoice accuracy and transparency.
  • Payment Systems: Integrated payment systems simplify collections and allow clients to pay securely online, streamlining financial processes.

10. Leverage Virtual Communication Tools

  • Virtual Meetings: Platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams enable lawyers to meet with clients or attend hearings remotely, saving time and travel costs.
  • Client Portals: These provide clients with 24/7 access to case updates, documents, and correspondence, fostering trust and reducing unnecessary calls or emails.

The Bottom Line

 

The range of legal tech uses outlined here is only the beginning; they have the potential to unlock countless opportunities for both law firms and legal departments. When you modernize and expand your team’s legal tech stack, you’ll be on your way to leveraging your advantage to great success. Using technology to keep case information organized can be easily accomplished and have a large impact on a case’s outcome.