Legal automation tools cut error rates and reduce repetitive manual work so your law firm can do more with less. You can use automation across nearly every firm function, from intake to time capture to accounts payable. Most automations use if-then logic and are triggered by a user decision or an event in your legal practice management system.
See Tabs3 automation in action — Request a personalized demo today.
What Is Legal Automation (and Why It Matters for Law Firms)
Legal automations improve law firms’ productivity and reduce human error by automatically completing a task or process when a trigger event occurs. Automation can help law firms control costs, increase client satisfaction, and scale their businesses more effectively.
Automations Enhance Existing Legal Workflows
Most law firm automation tools come with the most common automations preloaded. You can also create custom automations to match your firm’s existing workflows, like:
- Initiating critical tasks, like opening the conflict of interest interface whenever a new client or contact is entered.
- Reducing manual work, like allowing accounting clerks to change billing codes in multiple fee records simultaneously.
- Preventing delays, like running prior-month productivity reports on the first working day of a month and email them to the appropriate supervisors.
- Keeping clients up to date, like creating a draft reminder email to the client and deponent when a deposition date is entered in the calendar.
- Expediting time-consuming tasks and reducing errors, like assembling a prefilled fee agreement packet in Microsoft Word when the client screening workflow is marked complete.
Automations Add Speed and Reduce Mistakes Across Functions
Nearly every law firm function includes repetitive, rote work that can be automated. Examples include:
- Client work. Work faster and reduce errors with automations for drafting and assembling documents, drafting emails, adding calendar appointments, and running reports.
- Time capture. Preserve timekeepers’ billable time with automations that simplify entering time, drafting fee entries, and revising billing statements.
- Billing and financials. Empower small teams with automations that review and update key metrics, run financial reports, process invoices, and manage payments.
- Trust accounting. Ensure compliance in less time with automation that creates real-time dashboards, manages recordkeeping, and helps clerks spot errors before they happen.
- Marketing and intake. Get more qualified leads and boost conversion with automations for follow-ups, eSignatures, appointment reminders, and marketing sequences.
Top Benefits of Legal Automation for Law Firms
Legal automation offers immediate advantages, and its value compounds over time.
- Increased productivity. Streamline rote tasks, reduce time and money spent correcting errors, and free staff to invest time in more complex tasks.
- Enhanced client experience. Reduce response times while retaining personalized interactions, increasing client satisfaction, repeat business, and referrals.
- Lower costs. Enjoy quick ROI by reducing labor costs, increasing potentially billable time, and boosting attorney and staff satisfaction.
- Better data security and compliance. Control how users handle confidential information, reduce unnecessary data access, and build in compliance.
- Scalability. Grow more efficiently by standardizing procedures and documents, speeding up workflows, and reducing the need for repetitive labor.
- Competitive advantage. Show clients who are looking for efficient and modern legal services that your firm is innovating with technology to serve them better.
- Insightful data analytics. Discover analytics that give you deep insight into your firm’s operations so you can make informed decisions for improvement.
Ready to automate your firm’s daily workflows? Get started with Tabs3 and discover how automation saves time and reduces stress.
5 Legal Workflows You Can Automate Today
The best tasks to automate are ones that you do the same way every time. Tasks that require consultation, decision-making, or collaboration are not good candidates for automation. To get the greatest ROI, look for tasks that directly impact revenue, that have high labor costs, or that are prone to consequential error.
1. Intervene Early with Fee Entry Problems
Fee entries are notoriously labor-intensive, and they can make or break your firm’s financial health. They are also error-prone, especially if your law firm serves business clients with a variety of billing requirements.
Consider adopting automation that remind timekeepers of firm and client guidelines. For example, you might add a pop-up reminder when the timekeeper tries to enter a block of more than six hours (block billing) or violates a client billing guideline. You might also create an automation to send a notification to the supervising attorneys and/or firm administrator for more serious errors.
2. Docket Deadlines Immediately
Missed deadlines are a serious problem for law firms. Major misses can permanently deprive clients of legal rights and lead to costly bar complaints and/or malpractice suits. Creating calendar entries, however, is a multi-step process that may be part of a long, complex workflow.
You can simplify the docketing process with automation. Try creating an automation that opens a pre-filled calendar entry whenever a statute of limitations date or other important deadline is entered in your practice management software. The user can quickly review the calendar entry for accuracy and save it, so nothing falls through the cracks.
3. Keep Clients Informed
Lack of communication is one of the most common problems cited in bar complaints. Clients also want communication to feel personal. Without automation, frequent, individualized communication can significantly reduce productivity for attorneys and professional staff alike.
Using custom letter and email templates automatically populated with client information, you can quickly produce and send personalized updates to clients. You can also create reminder automations that pop up a pre-filled message whenever a client update should be sent, like when a proceeding is scheduled or a claim has been filed on their behalf.
4. Assemble Documents Efficiently
Manually drafting and assembling documents, especially multi-part documents, can drain staff capacity and introduce costly errors. With automation, you can define document templates ahead of time. When it is time to assemble the documents, automation can populate the template from your practice management system, so nothing gets lost in translation.
For example, if your matters require new clients to fill out forms, you could create an automation to automatically create the new client packet in Word. It could pre-populate the forms with the information the client has already shared, so they do not have to repeat themselves. Finally, it could prepare a draft email to the client with documents attached.
5. Schedule Appointments Promptly
Setting appointments and distributing reminders is a cross-functional need, impacting both intake and client matters. Automation can help your team schedule appointments efficiently and automate the reminder process. For some workflows, you may also be able to fully automate setting, docketing, and appointment reminders.
For example, you could automate key aspects of your client intake workflow. You can use your CRM to send intake forms by text or email, dynamically select relevant questions on intake forms, and send automatic texts or email reminders. You can also automate email and text marketing campaigns to specific segments of your audience.
How Tabs3 Software Powers Legal Automation
Every product in the Tabs3 ecosystem includes automation tools. Many automated legal workflows are built in from the start. Firms can also create custom automations.
With Tabs3 Billing in Tabs3 Cloud, the billing and accounting functions can create time-saving automations. Timekeepers can also automate aspects of time entry, and supervisors can automate parts of billing review. Examples include:
- Opening a new fee entry whenever a phone call is logged.
- Warning timekeepers about client fee description requirements.
- Editing multiple fee entries simultaneously.
- Managing edits and approvals in the pre-billing process electronically.
- Automating electronic payments with Tabs3Pay.
Tabs3 Financials in Tabs3 Cloud makes it simple to automate tasks for trust accounting, accounts payable, and general ledger, like:
- Logging payments made to the firm from the trust account in Tabs3 Billing.
- Entering recurring transactions and summarizing vendor payments.
- Checking journal entries to make sure they balance before saving records.
PracticeMaster in Tabs3 Cloud supports event-triggered and user-triggered automations, called WorkFlows. Law firms have realized substantial time savings with WorkFlows, processing paperwork up to 33% faster. Watch WorkFlows in action (4:36).
Common WorkFlow automations include:
- Notifying appropriate parties when a key matter record is changed, like the primary timekeeper, support staff, or the firm administrator.
- Drafting an email notifying the client and the deponent when a deposition is scheduled
- Starting Word document assembly for a client letter when a calendar record is added. See how document assembly works (2:27).
- Creating a trust check request from a document management record and warning the user if the check request is saved without an attachment.
See the WorkFlows Guide for a deeper dive into Tabs3 PracticeMaster WorkFlows.
Tabs3 CRM, an add-on for PracticeMaster, and Tabs3 Websites also offer automation options, including:
- Hosting custom intake forms with dynamic, logic-based questions on your Tabs3 Website and delivering the filled-out forms to Tabs3 CRM.
- Sending intake forms to prospective clients through text or email and nurturing leads with automated text or email reminders.
- Creating personalized text or email marketing campaigns that target specific segments of your audience.
Legal Automation Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of legal tasks are suitable for automation?
Automation is most helpful for frequent tasks that are done the same way every time. To get the best ROI, automate tasks that tie directly impact billing/finances, tasks with high labor costs, and tasks that are prone to serious errors.
Good candidates for automation include spotting errors in fee entries or bills, assembling documents, and docketing critical dates like statutes of limitations.
Are there any legal tasks that should not be automated?
Yes. It generally is not worth your time to automate documents that are not used frequently. In addition, tasks that require consultation and/or exercising legal judgment should be carefully supervised by humans.
How can legal automation tools help my firm become more profitable?
Yes. Automation can help you scale your business by avoiding unnecessary labor costs and reducing exposure to risks, like data entry errors that impact trust accounting or case deadlines. It can also make your team get more done and spend more of their time on billable tasks.
What are the most common automated legal workflows?
Document assembly, time capture, docket/calendar management, billing tasks, intake, and marketing are popular automation use cases with many law firms. With your firm’s unique goals and challenges in mind, you can choose automations that will yield the greatest ROI for you.
Your IP law firm is poised to grow or striving to get ahead. The technology you choose can give you a leg up, but not every tool is well-suited for an IP practice’s needs. Learn how the right legal practice management platform could propel you forward.
👉 Want to learn more about Tabs3 Cloud? Schedule a demo today!
What is practice management software?
General business management software works for some businesses. But law firms have unique needs, and meeting those needs requires a specialized legal practice management platform. These products typically include:
- Workflow and task management
- Docketing/calendaring
- Conflict checking and contact management
- Client relationship management (CRM)
- Reports, analytics, and dashboards
- Time entry and cost tracking
- Billing and payment processing
- Trust accounting, bookkeeping, and accounts payable
IP law firms need more from practice management platforms
Most law firms need the features listed above. But IP firms need augmented capacity in a few areas:
- Advanced docket management to handle high-volume deadline tracking
- Robust matter management to ensure coverage and map intricate data relationships
- Workflow and document support to speed up extensive documentation requirements
- Financial tools for alternative fee arrangements and complex payment attribution
Tabs3 Cloud has the tools your IP law firm needs to scale. You get powerful financial tools and can add on PracticeMaster to help you work faster and more accurately.
Ready to transform your law firm’s billing process? Schedule a personalized demo and discover how Tabs3 Cloud can transform your firm in one complete practice management solution.
Never miss a deadline
Your firm’s growth is hampered when due dates are stuck in multiple tools. Teams may have little visibility into the firm’s work as a whole, and it can be difficult to match due dates with client files. The sheer volume of deadlines and filings in IP practices creates extra urgency around this issue; even a single missed step could result in permanent loss of a client’s rights.
The right legal practice management platform can make a big difference. PracticeMaster in Tabs3 Cloud helps supervisors track deadlines across the entire firm. Depending on the access rules you choose, users can see deadlines for a single matter, all of a timekeeper’s matters, or all of a group’s matters. Each deadline is associated with the relevant matter, so nothing gets lost.
The docketing feature also integrates with Microsoft Outlook, including real-time synchronization when you make changes in either place.
Keep everyone up to date
Disconnected data storage causes problems beyond lost due dates. When contacts are siloed, it is challenging to conduct accurate conflict checks and ensure client notifications are handled correctly. Paper-based client files make it difficult to keep everyone up to date on each matter, so time is wasted tracking down information.
Tabs3 Cloud with PracticeMaster allows your firm to centralize all matter management activities. Documents, emails, contacts, and all other matter information is available in digital format, so any updates are immediately available to all authorized users. You can access case files securely from desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
In addition, leadership teams can use the reporting function to track trends and patterns, which can reveal opportunities for workflow efficiencies and profitability levers. A legal CRM and secure document sharing/eSignature are also available.
Standardize and speed up work
To meet your deadlines, you have to draft client correspondence, filings, and other documents. Each attorney may use a slightly different model for each document type, and you may be re-keying data in every draft. Especially when you are assembling complex or lengthy documents, the opportunities for mistakes compound.
PracticeMaster in Tabs3 Cloud helps you create shared templates for frequently-used documents to ensure that firm policies are uniformly applied. Templates also reduce drafting time and errors, because matter information can be automatically pulled into the document. You can even set up automation to generate a whole set of documents in fewer steps.
Keep the revenue cycle moving forward
More and more law firms are using alternative fee arrangements, but manually managing billing for complex fee agreements can take time. If you have large clients with multiple matters, payment attribution can quickly become a major chore. And regardless of fee arrangements or client size, time entry is a perennial issue.
Tabs3 Cloud comes with robust, flexible financial tools. Efficient time entry from any device enables on-time billing. The platform can handle virtually any fee arrangement, and you only need to set up each client’s fee rules once. Splitting payments between multiple matters is simple. You can do trust accounting, general ledger, and accounts payable from Tabs3 Cloud. Finally, you get access to an extensive suite of financial reports and analytics.
Scale your IP firm with Tabs3 Cloud
Tabs3 Cloud has the core functions and extra features, like PracticeMaster, that IP firms need to grow. It can make your daily work simpler and more efficient while revealing insights that can guide your trajectory. Demo Tabs3 Cloud today.
Ready to transform your law firm’s billing process? Schedule a personalized demo and discover how Tabs3 Cloud can transform your firm in one complete practice management solution.
Lawyers and other legal professionals know that law firms are tempting targets for cybercriminals. You probably know a friend of a friend who accidentally sent confidential information to opposing counsel. Even so, it is common at many law firms to send sensitive client information via email. In doing so, you may risk ethical complaints, data breach liability, and reputational damage.
At the same time, changing your workflow is challenging, especially when your caseload is growing and staffing is shrinking. LexShare offers an alternative. It combines strong security with products you already use and trust.
👉 Check out the PracticeMaster Integration page to learn more about LexShare
Wait.. why not just add a privilege/confidentiality disclaimer and use regular email?
Tacking on a disclaimer as an email liability shield approach is fast, easy, and familiar, but it might not be secure enough.
Current ABA guidance* recommends a fact-based analysis
In 1999, Formal Opinion 99-413 (1999) stated that lawyers have a reasonable expectation of privacy in standard email. Formal Opinion 477R (2017) changed that guidance.
The 2017 opinion referenced Comment 18 to Model Rule 1.6(c), which states that “factors to be considered in determining the reasonableness of the lawyer’s efforts [to safeguard confidential information when sending information electronically]” include, but are not limited to:
- the sensitivity of the information,
- the likelihood of disclosure if additional safeguards are not employed,
- the cost of employing additional safeguards,
- the difficulty of implementing the safeguards, and
- the extent to which the safeguards adversely affect the lawyer’s ability to represent clients (e.g., by making a device or important piece of software excessively difficult to use).
It also noted that the duty of competence requires attorneys to understand the risks and benefits associated with changing technology (see Model Rule 1.1, Comment 8).
The ABA concluded that sharing client information over the internet is acceptable if the attorney makes “reasonable efforts to prevent inadvertent or unauthorized access,” unless the client requests more security or the fact-specific analysis indicates higher security is required.
*ABA guidance is advisory. Check with your state bar association for local rules.
“Reasonable efforts” require ongoing evaluation of risks and protections
In the eight years since Opinion 477R was published, the list of security risks law firms face has only grown. The tools available to protect communications have changed, too.
Opinion 477R acknowledged the evolving nature of technology. It cited the ABA’s 2016 Ethics 20/20 Commission Report, which declined to recommend specific safety measures, saying that that “technology is changing too rapidly to offer such guidance and … the particular measures lawyers should use will necessarily change as technology evolves and as new risks emerge and new security procedures become available.”
Reputational damage is an independent risk
Clients rely on their attorneys to safeguard their information, and when that trust is breached, the firm can be damaged even if no ethical rules were violated. An email disclaimer will not stop a hacker. When emails are misdirected, it is not always possible to un-ring the bell. Reputational damage can be especially devastating for firms that rely heavily on referrals.
LexShare offers better security without sacrificing ease of use
Lawyers are understandably reluctant to add new technology to their workflows, even when they want the benefits it provides. It takes time to learn a new process. Some tools add too many extra steps, cutting into your already-limited work time. Or they are difficult for clients to use, so your phone is ringing with support requests.
LexShare makes secure sharing easy on you and your clients. You can send or request a document from PracticeMaster with a few clicks:
- You choose the appropriate level of security based on the situation
- You can write the body of the email right in the workflow or get a secure link and add it to your email manually
- You can set up a notification to alert you when the document is accessed or sent
If you choose to add eSignature capability, the process for getting an eSignature is similar.
On your client’s end, the message looks like a normal email; they just click on the link to get the secure document. If you decide to add extra security, the client must answer a challenge question before viewing the document.
Use case: Sending sensitive information to a client
Imagine that you need to share confidential, written information about your client’s matter, and time is limited.
Your perspective: Instead of sending a letter or making an appointment, you decide to send an email and attach the confidential information. Since the information is sensitive, you use LexShare to send a secure link with a pre-arranged challenge question. You complete the entire process inside PracticeMaster in just a few minutes.
The client’s perspective: Your client receives the email in their regular email inbox. They answer the challenge question accurately and read the information on your secure portal.
By emailing a secure link instead of meeting or mailing a letter, you:
- Get the information to the client quickly so you do not lose momentum on the matter.
- Avoid an extra appointment in your calendar.
- Save on paper and postage.
- Keep sensitive data out of email inboxes and limit the risk of unauthorized access to confidential information.
👉 Check out our LexShare video to learn more about this process
Use Case: Receiving confidential documents from a client
In this scenario, you completed the initial consultation virtually and need additional documentation from the client to decide on next steps, including screenshots of texts from the client’s phone.
Your perspective: This particular information is very sensitive, so you use LexShare to send the client a single-use link that allows them to upload the screenshots or files to your secure portal. You complete the entire process inside PracticeMaster with just a few clicks.
The client’s perspective: The client opens the email on their phone or computer, clicks the link, and uploads the necessary files.
By emailing a secure link for the client to upload, you:
- Get a faster response, because the client can complete the task from their mobile device, so you can take the next step in the matter right away.
- Import the screenshots or files directly into PracticeMaster.
- Keep sensitive data out of email inboxes and limit the risk of unauthorized access to confidential information.
See the document sharing process (starts at 2:31).
Use case: Signing a retainer agreement
After reviewing the client’s documentation, you decide to accept the matter. Now you need to get a signed retainer agreement.
Your perspective: The retainer agreement is sensitive, and your client wants to get moving on the matter right away. You decide to use LexShare to request an eSignature on the document. You go into PracticeMaster, select the document, and click “Request eSignature.” You complete the eSignature request process quickly and efficiently.
Your client’s perspective: The client clicks the link, answers the challenge question, and reads the document. Then they sign the document in a few clicks.
Watch the eSignature process from your perspective and your client’s perspective.
By using the eSignature process, you:
- Secure representation fast so the client does not move on to another firm.
- Meet the client’s expectations for speed.
- Save on paper and postage.
- Keep sensitive data out of email inboxes and limit the risk of unauthorized access to confidential information.
👉 Schedule a demo to learn more about how Tabs3 can benefit your firm
Protect your clients, your good name, and your time
LexShare’s plug-and-play integration with PracticeMaster means you can start sending securely right away. Your clients will also welcome a simpler process for sharing and signing. Demo PracticeMaster with LexShare on Tabs3 Cloud today!
Ready to transform your law firm’s billing process? Schedule a personalized demo and discover how Tabs3 Cloud can transform your firm in one complete practice management solution.
Strategic legal document management is how small and mid-size law firms stay organized, secure sensitive information, and maintain compliance. If your firm struggles to quickly locate, securely share, or store and access essential documents, step forward with smarter document management solutions.
Discover tools and best practices to create more efficient workflows while safeguarding confidential data, enhancing productivity, and creating a more collaborative client experience below.
Best Practices for Efficient Legal Document Management
Small and mid-size law firms can see significant benefits from implementing best practices for legal document management. Your systems should focus on organization, security, document automation, seamless collaboration, and integrations to create more efficient workflows.
Consistent File Organization
An organized document system keeps legal files easily accessible and within reach. Following consistent naming conventions and adopting a firm-wide organization structure ensures attorneys and staff can locate essential information quickly without hunting through folders or sifting through paperwork.
Secure Storage Solutions
Prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data with practice management software featuring granular document access controls. Look for tools that enable you to set custom access permissions for critical legal documents. Secure storage protects your law firm and clients, helping ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.
Enhanced File-Sharing
Secure, cloud-based file-sharing makes collaboration effortless. You need functionality to request eSignatures and documents from clients to keep matters running smoothly. When you can seamlessly import signed and received documents back into your practice management software, information stays coordinated across the firm.
Legal Document Automation
Document creation is less time-consuming and easily billed with automation tools built into your practice management solution. By choosing a system that offers automated document assembly, you can instantly pull all pertinent matter information into new legal documents to streamline forms, contracts, and billing processes.
Collaborative, Real-Time Access
Secure file-sharing opens the door to seamless collaboration across the firm and with your clients. Look for tools that ensure only authorized individuals can access, edit, sign, and share documents in real-time for enhanced collaboration and less time spent chasing updates or file feedback.
Legal Tool Integrations
When document management tools integrate with your most-used platforms, like practice management software, legal CRM, secure sharing tools, and billing solutions, each document is more accurate with all information synchronized across systems.
Leveraging Automated Workflows for Legal Document Management
Automated workflows are revolutionizing the legal field by streamlining and enhancing operational efficiency. Time-saving tools can be used to automate complex processes and increase productivity with less manual effort.
PracticeMaster’s WorkFlows help tasks and processes flow more smoothly. Apply automation to processes including and beyond document management, such as:
- Automatically start tasks when necessary steps are completed
- Receive task reminders when custom triggers occur
- Start emails, assemble legal documents, or automate thank-you letters
These features, combined with real-time collaboration, make document review and approval less time-consuming so you can focus on the work that matters.
Safeguarding Against Conflicts for Compliance
Beyond efficiency, speed, and security benefits, optimized document management is crucial for thorough analysis of conflicts of interest and ensuring compliance with regulations. Properly stored legal documents and emails protect confidentiality and create a consistent “paper trail.”
Conflict of Interest Analysis
Smart legal document management is essential for identifying potential conflicts of interest. You should be able to quickly access all necessary documentation to thoroughly check for potential conflicts. With tools that instantly check for conflicts and complete records of past emails, files, and communications, your law firm can evaluate with clarity.
Compliance and Governance
Adhering to governance policies and legal regulatory requirements is easier with document management tools in place. With structured oversight of document management, you can ensure all legal documents have access-based permissions to protect sensitive information and maintain compliance.
Tools for Comprehensive Legal Document Management
Modern best practices for legal document management require innovative tools that streamline and simplify the way your law firm handles, shares, and stores files. Powerful practice management software that centralizes document management and file-sharing is the best choice to keep information consolidated and accessible.
Whether you manage your practice with traditional on-premises software or in the cloud, find the tools that best fit your law firm for comprehensive document management.
PracticeMaster: Power Your Firm with Secure Document Management Tools
PracticeMaster legal practice management software is available for both on-premises and Tabs3 Cloud environments to keep your law firm aligned on every matter, document, and deadline. With built-in workflow automation and legal document management features, you can easily create documents in seconds, strategically assemble and file documents, and generate client communications quickly.
PracticeMaster is the leading solution for law firms looking to optimize legal document management, storage, assembly, and access with enhanced organization and efficiency.
Organized Document Filing
PracticeMaster automatically names and stores new files under the appropriate matter for seamless access when you need it. Stop the hunt for legal documents with a clear organizational structure that keeps your filing system tidy and easy to use.
Automated WorkFlows and Document Assembly
Built-in Document Assembly and WorkFlows automatically pull information from various sources or integrated software to start emails, assemble legal documents, and fill out contracts accurately. Review the first draft, make edits, and handle approvals faster to keep matters moving forward.
Link Files to Matters
PracticeMaster’s Matter Manager puts client profiles, related documents, and activity timelines at your fingertips. View emails, files, billing summaries, conflicts, and research notes in one place to easily spot next steps for delay-free document management.
LexShare: Share, Request, and eSign Files Securely
LexShare is a cloud-based service designed for secure file sharing and requesting eSignatures from clients. This tool works within PracticeMaster, consolidating your software needs into one place for ease of use. Integrate PracticeMaster with LexShare to protect the files you share with clients, request new documents, get signatures quickly, and offer clients a seamless experience.
Share and Request Files Securely
The LexShare integration allows you to send secure, encrypted files to clients without leaving PracticeMaster. Send important documents to clients for review. Easily manage hassle-free document requests to get the information you need, faster.
Obtain eSignatures
Chasing client signatures is a thing of the past with LexShare eSignature requests. Send secure documents and request eSignatures for faster turnaround times that make your law firm more efficient. Import signed documents into PracticeMaster to keep accurate, comprehensive records.
The Future of Legal Document Management
The right technology simplifies record-keeping and makes smart legal document management a foundational step to securing your firm’s future. From staying in compliance and increasing firm efficiency to offering standout data security, streamlining legal documents with robust tools is key to winning with clients.
Implement WorkFlows, automate document assembly, and adopt secure file-sharing tools to better protect client data and position your firm to keep up with modern best practices. Stay a step ahead with PracticeMaster and LexShare to turn legal document management into one less worry for your firm, and one more reason you stand out from the competition. Schedule a demo today!
Practice management software for law firms is supposed to make admin easier, so your team spends less time entering data into a spreadsheet. With features like client portals, time tracking, and online payments, lawyers have 24/7 access to the tools and data needed to work faster. That’s why 73 percent of law firms implement cloud-based tools like practice management software.
However, these benefits depend upon how easy the software is to use every day. Clunky interfaces, slow page loading times, and lack of integration can cause lawyers to spend more time on an important motion or contract.
If your current practice management software slows your law firm down, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
The growing pains: 7 signs your law firm has outgrown its current software
When your outdated software is critical to your law firm’s operations, it feels impossible to stop using it every day. So how do you know exactly when to cut the cord with your current legal practice management software? Watch for these seven signs:
1. Outdated software racks up non-billable hours
Practice management software should help your team operate faster. If non-billable hours are creeping up, your software could be the culprit. Outdated software starts to load slower over time. If the page takes a long time to load and then lags once it does, your team won’t want to use it. Even worse, if the page crashes and information is not saved, your paralegal will have to draft that memo all over again.
Outdated practice management software causes inefficient manual workarounds. These are temporary methods used to continue critical functions when normal systems or technology are unavailable or inadequate. Some examples your team may have experienced include:
- Tracking time or billing manually in spreadsheets.
- Going back to paper-based systems for record keeping.
- Copy-pasting information between software that doesn’t integrate.
2. Lack of scalability
A successful, small law firm turns mid-sized when it acquires more cases and legal staff. Your legal practice management software should be able to grow with your team, offering more services that help different-sized law firms.
Additionally, access control features are a must, so clients’ sensitive information is only shared with people working on that case. If your software develops performance issues with multiple users, consider other options.
3. Other tools stop working with your software
There are many facets to practice management software, such as billing, CRM (client relationship management), and trust accounting. However, not all legal software comes with built-in tools, so your team may have integrations that you find necessary. If your software has limited third-party integrations or has difficulty syncing with other applications, this can affect productivity.
4. Limited feature set
Your project management software may have been amazing for its automatic invoicing features when you initially chose it. However, it should continue to add top-of-the-line features to provide value for your firm, including:
- Scheduled backups, even when your team members are using it.
- Auto recovery of data to a reliable, usable state, cutting down the possibility of data corruption.
- Accelerated delivery for reports, filtering, and column sorting in large quantities.
- Access to data when you’re away from the office.
Additionally, software should be customizable to fit your firm’s exact needs. You should be able to adjust processes and access dashboard views to maximize time saved on each task.
5. Inadequate data security and compliance
Hackers breached security for 4 out of 10 law firms in 2023. Don’t let your law firm be next. Depending on your practice area or location, you must follow security and compliance rules as written by HIPAA, CCPA, and the SHIELD Act. Your clients expect you to protect their credit card numbers and case details. Outdated security measures and noncompliant legal software are unacceptable in any practice.
6. Poor interface and accessibility
Has your staff complained about how hard it is to find a digital document? Maybe they have a hard time tracking specific agreements due to a lack of search function, or they can never remember what each icon stands for. Roadblocks like these show that your software has a bad user interface, driving your team to manual workarounds that slow processes.
Additionally, legal software should work seamlessly away from the office so staff can use it when working from home. When lawyers have to pick up the phone once they’ve left the office, they still need to track their time. If they can’t, that quickly turns into lost hours and lost revenue.
7. Rising costs without added value
It’s normal for software costs to rise as long as you are seeing extra benefits. But if your current software is costing you more without any new features, it’s time to look at other options. Don’t pay extra for basic functions, such as document storage, which should be included in the standard pricing.
What to look for in a new practice management solution
If your law firm struggles with any of the issues listed above, it’s time to look for a new option. While researching the plethora of practice management solutions out there, be sure that what you choose has the following options:
- Scalability: Flexible legal software helps you add features as your firm grows.
- A comprehensive feature set: Each product is tailored for law firms.
- Seamless integrations: One software rarely does it all; it should integrate to fill the gaps.
- Automation: Look for tools like smart client intake and marketing automation.
- Robust security: SSL encryption, access restrictions, and secure file sharing should be tailored to the legal industry to ensure compliance.
- Excellent user experience and support: Phone and email support should be available at convenient times, with a knowledge base to find answers on your own.
How to switch to new practice management software
It can be intimidating to transition to a new practice management software. Your team may be hesitant at first because they are comfortable with the previous solution. To make sure everything goes well, follow these steps to move to a new platform:
- Assess current and future needs: Forecast features you’d like to start using once your firm grows.
- Conduct research: Look at publications like Lawyerist for reviews from users.
- Demo new options: Shortlist your top five and schedule a demo with each company to ask questions about how your firm can use their product.
- Plan out data migration: Work with the company’s IT to migrate your data to the new platform.
- Schedule staff training: Set aside training time so your employees can practice with the new system.
Reduce non-billable hours with Tabs3 Cloud and PracticeMaster
Outdated software wastes time, money, and resources your law firm desperately needs. Stop spinning your wheels and switch to Tabs3. Our legal practice management software, PracticeMaster, is available in Tabs3 Cloud and has been expertly developed to support law firms’ needs.
Plus, Tabs3 Cloud includes Tabs3 Billing and Tabs3 Financials. Let us show you how we can help you manage your practice better and schedule a demo today.
Along with securing the best possible outcome for matters and delivering a great client experience, client confidentiality should always be a top priority for law firms. Because client privacy is such a priority, though, many firms are hesitant to introduce new tools or technologies that deal with client data. Instead, they tend to stick to tried-and-true practices.
The reality, though, is that the practices that protected client privacy ten or twenty years ago may not be as effective as they once were. Technology has led to incredible breakthroughs, but it’s also introduced vulnerabilities when it comes to data and data security.
Law firms have a duty to their clients to protect their data, and one of the best ways they can do so is by keeping pace with the digital age. Employee training, secure offices, and firm privacy policies are all essential for protecting sensitive information. However, secure file-sharing and eSignature software are also critical tools that should not be overlooked.
Why digital security is critical for law firms in the U.S.
For law firms in the U.S., data breaches are more prevalent than ever. In 2021, law firm data breaches affected 720,000 Americans, and some of these breaches have led to significant financial burdens for the law firms themselves.
Case in point: in 2022, mid-sized Ohio firm Bricker & Eckler agreed to a $1.95 million settlement for a class action lawsuit stemming from a 2021 data breach at their firm.
To protect your clients’ information and your law firm’s reputation, it’s critical now more than ever to take proactive measures for data security and file encryption. One place to start is by implementing secure file-sharing and eSignature software solutions.
Secure file sharing software provides peace of mind and added convenience
Sharing sensitive documents via email or paper files opens the door to human error, which increases the risk of compromised client data. Secure file-sharing software is an essential way to eliminate human error and maintain document security. For example, Tabs3 Software’s practice management solution PracticeMaster integrates with LexShare, a file-sharing software that provides bank-level security measures.
With secure file-sharing software, you and your clients send and receive files of any size with an extra layer of protection while collaborating with clients and colleagues, no matter where they are located.
Remote work means secure file sharing is more important than ever
In the past few years, law firms have transformed to allow for remote work for many employees. In 2022, 87% of lawyers reported that their law firms allow for remote work. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of private practice lawyers can work remotely 100% of the time, while 23% follow a hybrid work schedule.
For firms that enable remote work for their employees, security is a significant concern. In addition to employee training and privacy policies, secure data access is critical to maintaining ABA compliance and protecting your clients’ data. Secure file-sharing software, combined with eSignature features, allows lawyers and clients alike to make progress on case matters without ever having to enter the office.
eSignatures are legally binding and secure for clients
Digital signatures have been around since the 1970s but became legally binding with the ESIGN Act in 2000.
Contrary to popular belief, eSignatures provide more layers of security than email or the postal service. For legal documents, eSignatures feature specialized encryption tools, knowledge-based authentication, and secure links to protect clients’ data security.
eSignatures don’t just protect client data online. While paper documents are vulnerable to theft, fire, flood, and other physical damage, electronic client signatures ensure document preservation. When combined with practice management software, this digital documentation also helps prevent incorrect storage, misplacement, or filing errors that could lead to additional security breaches.
Cost and time savings provide an added bonus
While security is the primary concern of eSignature and file-sharing software, the cost and time savings for law firms shouldn’t be ignored.
The average office worker goes through 10,000 sheets of paper per year. By switching to more paperless practices, law firms can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars per year in paper costs alone.
eSignatures also drastically decrease the wait time for signed documents. While many attorneys can spend hours requesting and collecting client signatures, eSignatures diminish document turnaround times by 80% (and prevent the likelihood of missing or incorrect signatures).
Combined with the security provided by eSignature and secure file-sharing software, these advantages can lead to expansive benefits and peace of mind for law firms.
Protect your clients’ sensitive data with Tabs3 Software
Tabs3 Software is dedicated to following the industry’s strictest compliance and data security regulations while offering attorneys a flexible working experience.
When it comes to protecting sensitive data, Tabs3’s fully integrated suite of products can provide your firm and your clients the privacy, security, and efficiency you need to operate with confidence.
Schedule a demo to see how Tabs3’s legal practice management software can provide digital security while also improving administrative and operational efficiency.
2025 brings new opportunities for law firm growth and client satisfaction. Technology is transforming every sector, and law firms are no exception.
Today’s clients expect law firms to offer effortless, secure, and flexible digital services. Meeting these expectations is essential to stay competitive and build client trust.
This blog outlines actionable steps for law firms moving toward secure, client-centered digital practices. With a focus on eSignature, secure file sharing, and cloud solutions, these tools will help your firm deliver the high-quality, secure service clients expect. Ready to start? Here are the tools and strategies your law firm needs in 2025.
6 processes and tools your law firm needs for 2025
Before adopting new tools, it’s helpful to review your current processes. Even if your systems work well, small changes can often make a big difference. Look at how you handle tasks like client intake, document sharing, billing, and communication. Identifying areas where your firm could save time or reduce risk will help you choose the best tools for 2025.
1. Simplify client onboarding with eSignature and digital intake forms
A straightforward intake process makes a great first impression. Instead of asking clients to fill out paper forms or wait for documents in the mail, you can provide online intake forms they can fill out on their own time. This reduces back-and-forth and helps clients feel comfortable with the process.
Using eSignature tools can make onboarding even easier. For example, instead of waiting days for clients to return signed engagement letters, they can sign them digitally from their phone or computer. This saves time and gives clients the flexibility to sign from wherever they are. With eSignature tools you can also keep track of who has signed and who still needs to, so nothing slips through the cracks.
2. Secure file sharing to protect client data
Sending sensitive documents by email can expose your clients’ information to risk if the email is hacked or intercepted. Instead, using a secure file-sharing tool lets you share documents in a way that keeps them private and protected.
For example, a secure file-sharing platform encrypts files while they’re being sent and while they’re stored. This means that even if someone intercepts the file, they won’t be able to read it.
A good file-sharing tool will also allow you to set permissions, so only specific people can view or download the documents. This extra layer of security is especially important for law firms, as it protects both your clients and your firm from potential data breaches.
3. Adopt cloud-based software for flexibility and secure access
Using cloud-based software means that you and your team can access important documents and case files from any device with an internet connection. This is especially helpful if you work from multiple locations or need to access files while in court or meeting with clients outside the office.
Cloud software doesn’t just make access easier—it also keeps files safe. For example, cloud providers often use encryption to keep data private, and they back up files regularly to prevent data loss. This means that if something happens to your office computers, your data is still safe and accessible online. In recent years, more and more law firms have adopted cloud-based systems, not only for convenience but also for the added security and peace of mind they offer.
4. Regularly review communication strategies and security protocols
Good communication is one of the most important aspects of client service. Clients want to know what’s happening with their case, and they appreciate timely responses to their questions. Regularly reviewing your communication practices can help you spot areas for improvement.
For example, you might find that response times are slower than expected, or that clients are unclear about next steps. Tracking things like response times, time to resolve issues, and how often clients receive updates can help you identify where communication could be clearer or faster.
Using a secure client portal can improve communication by giving clients a single place to check for updates and view messages. This way, instead of relying on email threads that can get lost or hacked, your firm can communicate securely and effectively.
5. Support digital adoption with continuous staff training
Introducing new tools only works if your team knows how to use them effectively. Ongoing training ensures that your staff can confidently use secure eSignature tools, file-sharing platforms, client portals, and cloud-based software. Well-trained staff are better equipped to leverage these tools in ways that enhance both security and client satisfaction.
Technology evolves quickly, and staying informed through regular training allows your team to maximize the value of these tools. If you’re unsure where to start, consider bringing in a consultant to guide your team on best practices for secure digital workflows.
6. Use data insights to continuously improve client service
When you adopt new digital tools, it’s essential that everyone on your team knows how to use them effectively. This isn’t just about understanding the technical features—it’s about knowing how to use each tool in a way that protects client data and enhances client service.
For example, if your team is using secure file-sharing for the first time, they should know how to set permissions properly to ensure that only authorized people can access certain files. Similarly, if you’re using eSignature tools, your staff should know how to track the status of a signature request so they can follow up if needed.
Offering regular training sessions or bringing in a consultant can help your team feel more comfortable with new tools, which in turn helps your firm operate more smoothly and securely.
Embrace new technology with confidence this year
Tabs3 provides the tools that help firms like yours simplify workflows, manage billing and documents easily, and keep security a priority. Investing in real changes now means a smoother, more profitable path forward for your legal practice. We take the guesswork out of digital transformation and position firms to thrive.
Schedule a demo today.
Along with securing the best possible outcome for matters and delivering a great client experience, client confidentiality should always be a top priority for law firms. Because client privacy is such a priority, though, many firms are hesitant to introduce new tools or technologies that deal with client data. Instead, they tend to stick to tried-and-true practices.
The reality, though, is that the practices that protected client privacy ten or twenty years ago may not be as effective as they once were. Technology has led to incredible breakthroughs, but it’s also introduced vulnerabilities when it comes to data and data security.
Law firms have a duty to their clients to protect their data, and one of the best ways they can do so is by keeping pace with the digital age. Employee training, secure offices, and firm privacy policies are all essential for protecting sensitive information. However, secure file-sharing and eSignature software are also critical tools that should not be overlooked.
Why digital security is critical for law firms in the U.S.
For law firms in the U.S., data breaches are more prevalent than ever. In 2021, law firm data breaches affected 720,000 Americans, and some of these breaches have led to significant financial burdens for the law firms themselves.
Case in point: in 2022, mid-sized Ohio firm Bricker & Eckler agreed to a $1.95 million settlement for a class action lawsuit stemming from a 2021 data breach at their firm.
To protect your clients’ information and your law firm’s reputation, it’s critical now more than ever to take proactive measures for data security and file encryption. One place to start is by implementing secure file-sharing and eSignature software solutions.
Secure file sharing software provides peace of mind and added convenience
Sharing sensitive documents via email or paper files opens the door to human error, which increases the risk of compromised client data. Secure file-sharing software is an essential way to eliminate human error and maintain document security. For example, Tabs3 Software’s practice management solution PracticeMaster integrates with LexShare, a file-sharing software that provides bank-level security measures.
With secure file-sharing software, you and your clients send and receive files of any size with an extra layer of protection while collaborating with clients and colleagues, no matter where they are located.
Remote work means secure file sharing is more important than ever
In the past few years, law firms have transformed to allow for remote work for many employees. In 2022, 87% of lawyers reported that their law firms allow for remote work. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of private practice lawyers can work remotely 100% of the time, while 23% follow a hybrid work schedule.
For firms that enable remote work for their employees, security is a significant concern. In addition to employee training and privacy policies, secure data access is critical to maintaining ABA compliance and protecting your clients’ data. Secure file-sharing software, combined with eSignature features, allows lawyers and clients alike to make progress on case matters without ever having to enter the office.
eSignatures are legally binding and secure for clients
Digital signatures have been around since the 1970s but became legally binding with the ESIGN Act in 2000.
Contrary to popular belief, eSignatures provide more layers of security than email or the postal service. For legal documents, eSignatures feature specialized encryption tools, knowledge-based authentication, and secure links to protect clients’ data security.
eSignatures don’t just protect client data online. While paper documents are vulnerable to theft, fire, flood, and other physical damage, electronic client signatures ensure document preservation. When combined with practice management software, this digital documentation also helps prevent incorrect storage, misplacement, or filing errors that could lead to additional security breaches.
Cost and time savings provide an added bonus
While security is the primary concern of eSignature and file-sharing software, the cost and time savings for law firms shouldn’t be ignored.
The average office worker goes through 10,000 sheets of paper per year. By switching to more paperless practices, law firms can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars per year in paper costs alone.
eSignatures also drastically decrease the wait time for signed documents. While many attorneys can spend hours requesting and collecting client signatures, eSignatures diminish document turnaround times by 80% (and prevent the likelihood of missing or incorrect signatures).
Combined with the security provided by eSignature and secure file sharing software, these advantages can lead to expansive benefits and peace of mind for law firms.
Protect your clients’ sensitive data with Tabs3 Software
Tabs3 Software is dedicated to following the industry’s strictest compliance and data security regulations while offering attorneys a flexible working experience.
When it comes to protecting sensitive data, Tabs3’s fully integrated suite of products can provide your firm and your clients the privacy, security, and efficiency you need to operate with confidence.
Schedule a walkthrough demo to see how Tabs3’s legal practice management software can provide digital security while also improving administrative and operational efficiency.
Run your law firm from anywhere without sacrificing the security, reliability, and flexibility you depend on from Tabs3 Software.
PracticeMaster is now available in Tabs3 Cloud. With this new release, users have more ways to access the powerful features and tools that have transformed the way legal professionals work, in addition to the cloud-based billing and financial tools already accessible in Tabs3 Cloud.
Which features are now available in Tabs3 Cloud?
Legal professionals have already been able to access their billing and financial tools via Tabs3 Cloud, including:
- Time tracking from anywhere: Tracking time is an essential part of accurate, efficient legal billing. With Tabs3, you can track time as you go from anywhere in the world.
- Faster invoicing: Tabs3’s flexible billing features, including pre-bill tracking and email statement options, help get your bills out faster than ever before.
- Access Tabs3Pay: With Tabs3 Cloud, legal teams can access their online payment portal, send trust requests, create payment schedules, and review client payments.
Now, in addition to billing and financial tools, Tabs3 Cloud users can work more efficiently and flexibly than ever before with access to PracticeMaster features. These features include matter management tools, legal calendaring, document management, and more.
Manage your case matters with the Matter Manager
Your client work is the bedrock of your firm. Without access to it, progress and communication are all too easily stalled. The PracticeMaster Matter Manager allows you to update case information, examine research notes, review costs and fees, and even see the status of your client’s billing status or trust account balance.
Stay on top of your legal calendar
More than just a “view,” legal professionals can access the full functionality of their legal calendar through Tabs3 Cloud. Drag and drop events to reschedule them, or look at your firm-wide calendar for the entire office. Users can view appointments by day, week, or month and find appointments by staff member or type of activity.
Prevent conflicts of interest
No more waiting to go into the office to check a conflict of interest. Now Tabs3 Cloud users can instantly find possible conflicts of interest with the Conflict of Interest Search. Not sure you have all the information or the right spelling? With PracticeMaster, you can search for conflicts of interest with phonetic spelling or partial words.
Streamline document management and automation
Manage your documents outside of the office without sacrificing security. Now you can organize your files and save documents into your practice management system from Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, or Microsoft Windows Folders, whether you’re in the office or working remotely.
Legal professionals can also access PracticeMaster’s Document Assembly automation feature to fill forms and contracts quickly and accurately. This feature allows users to pull information from PracticeMaster and populate documents for a high-quality first draft.
Explore the power of legal CRM from anywhere
Focused on growing your law firm? Bringing in clients more quickly? Expanding your marketing? Your legal client relationship management (CRM) software will play an important role.
Legal CRM software helps law firms build stronger client relationships, streamline client intake, and improve marketing efforts. With the expanded Tabs3 Cloud, legal teams can now access their legal CRM from anywhere.
With add-on product Tabs3 CRM, law firms can:
- Customize intake forms for each area of practice
- Build logic-based intake forms that identify qualified leads faster than ever
- Follow up with prospective clients automatically, even if they reach out at night or on the weekend
- Increase the number of touchpoints with leads and current clients
- Build a sustainable, effective marketing strategy
- Use insightful analytics to make strategic decisions for your marketing plan
These capabilities optimize your law firm’s growth and support long-term, trusting client relationships. And because PracticeMaster is now available in Tabs3 Cloud, you can add on Tabs3 CRM to access these features from anywhere to review analytics, adjust marketing campaigns, draft automated responses, review client intake data, and more.
Frequently asked questions about Tabs3 Cloud
Is Tabs3 Cloud secure?
Client confidentiality and data security are essential. Tabs3 Cloud is committed to providing law firms with advanced security and data privacy measures, so you can focus on the work at hand.
Tabs3 Cloud has the features necessary to protect sensitive client information and firm data against unauthorized access and breaches. The software incorporates security best practices such as:
- Data encryption to secure sensitive information
- Role-based access control to help firms adjust access to data based on user roles
- Two-factor authentication for an extra security measure against unauthorized access
- Regular security audits for ongoing security assessment and enhancement
- Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards compliance
How do law firms benefit from Tabs3 Cloud?
Every law firm can benefit from cloud-based practice management’s enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and increased collaboration.
Tabs3 Cloud, and cloud-based software in general, works well for law firms that don’t have readily available IT support or don’t want to manage their own server. For many small law firms without dedicated IT personnel, this option provides the perfect combination of functionality and flexibility without the responsibility of managing their own server.
Law firms further benefit from Tabs3 Cloud’s exceptional support team that provides users with access to U.S.-based customer service. This support extends from technical issues to helping law firms leverage Tabs3 Cloud features for maximum benefit.
How can Tabs3 users see Tabs3 Cloud in action?
Tabs3 Cloud combines Tabs3 features with the accessibility of the cloud. Schedule a demo to explore how Tabs3 Cloud can streamline your operations, enhance collaboration, and safeguard your data.
Successful client management is critical to a profitable law firm. But you cannot sit beside your phone and pick up every call. There are important legal documents to draft and review. There are meetings with plaintiffs and legal counselors. Arguments must be prepared, evidence must be gathered, and terms must be negotiated.
It can be a taxing cycle—you must make adequate time for current and prospective clients to address concerns, yet there is just so much other work to complete on the table. If you feel you have to do everything yourself, there’s a different way. Leverage software tools to streamline processes and provide better services.
If you find your law firm struggling to find time to onboard new clients, letting leads slip through the cracks, and leaving current clients on your call sheet to deal with later, it’s time to add client relationship management (CRM) software to your slate.
Legal-specific CRM software offers powerful benefits to modernize your law firm. However, not all CRM systems are the same. Learn how you can leverage Tabs3 CRM solution to increase business, provide better client relationships, and create a smoother intake process for your legal practice.
1. Utilize CRM to increase your business without increasing non-billable hours
It’s one thing to generate leads. It’s another to turn those leads into profitable client relationships. Tabs3 legal CRM can help bridge this gap by keeping leads and clients engaged throughout the client relationship lifecycle.
With tools such as automated drip campaigns and text message campaigns, it’s easy to stay in touch with potential clients who have visited the website. Tabs3 CRM allows you to create email drip and text message campaigns that include:
- Welcome messages with all the information needed to convert the client, such as relevant intake forms and communication expectations
- Email newsletter campaigns to stay top of mind with current and prospective clients
- Automatically scheduled follow-up messages to ensure a lead never slips through the cracks
Each email or text can be personalized with their name, legal services, needs, and more, so clients feel like they’re heard at each step of the process.
2. Create a smoother intake process that converts clients faster
For many practice areas, including personal injury law, immigration law, and criminal law, the defendant can be experiencing a moment of crisis. They need help quickly and don’t have time to wait for your phone call. Without a quick intake, they’ll just as quickly move on to a competitor.
Tabs3 CRM removes common intake bottlenecks and speeds the client intake process with smart intake forms. This customizable tool can:
- Customize entry fields depending on the client’s response
- Create specialized intake forms for each practice area
- Integrate data with Tabs3 practice management software seamlessly
- Simplify lead generation by sorting out qualified and unqualified leads
With Tabs3, you can communicate with new clients faster and save time on the client intake process. You won’t be bogged down by manual data entry anymore. Tabs3 automates that process so you can get in touch fast with qualified leads through automated messages and phone calls.
Meet clients where they’re at: mobile-optimized intake forms
Most people—97% of Americans age 18 to 45—own a smartphone. To capture every potential client, your intake forms must work on a mobile device or a tablet as well as a computer. Difficulty completing a form on a mobile device is one of the main reasons forms are abandoned.
Start your client relationships out on the right foot with Tabs3 CRM. Our mobile-friendly intake forms work effortlessly on every single device. With no barrier to filling out the form, your clients will complete it faster.
3. Provide exceptional client care with easily accessible information and automated communication
A few of the most common complaints from clients about their lawyers are neglect, lack of communication, and misrepresentation. Ensure that your clients feel seen and heard with Tabs3 CRM.
When all your client information is in one place, it’s easy to access and manage. You don’t have to hunt around paper files and leave your clients hanging. You can easily update them with questions on their case and give them status updates.
And you don’t have to do all this work yourself. Tabs3 CRM simplifies your workload by sending automated messages to do actions such as:
- Set up meetings with clients and leads
- Remind leads and other relevant parties about upcoming meetings
- Deliver follow-up paperwork related to their case
Regular communication with clients helps them remember the important work you’re doing for them, making them more likely to stick with your firm over the long haul. Spend less money on lead generation with improved client retention rates—increasing profitability for your firm.
4. Reduce administrative burdens to keep your focus on clients
It’s no big secret that attorneys spend many hours a day on non-billable administrative work. Those tasks are necessary, but they don’t necessarily need to be done manually.
Tabs3 CRM helps law firms by taking care of many administrative tasks, letting attorneys focus more on their clients. For example, when a new client contacts your firm, Tabs3 CRM can automatically input their details, create necessary documents, and set follow-up appointments without manual effort.
It also works well with other software to keep all client information within your legal practice management system, reducing mistakes and improving overall efficiency. This ensures that all data is up-to-date and easily accessible, so attorneys can quickly retrieve client information and focus on providing quality legal services.
Keep clients happy, without more non-billable hours, with Tabs3 CRM
Tabs3 CRM allows your law firm to have the best of both worlds: streamlined workflows and happy clients. Use our automated systems to communicate with clients regularly and meet their needs, without adding more tasks to your workday. With our seamless integration into the practice management software your law firm already uses, Tabs3 CRM is easy for your team to use and implement.
Learn how Tabs3 can improve client relationships at your law firm, and schedule a demo with our team today.