Our top five productivity tools for lawyers

Since we originally posted our list of top productivity tools for law firms in 2018, legal tech tools have advanced significantly. There are more tools than ever and with AI now a common component of most tools, we wanted to revisit our recommendations to reflect the tools available now..

Before we dive in, a quick word on AI. There’s a lot of valid trepidation about the effectiveness, impacts, and ethics of using Artificial Intelligence in our work and lives. Additionally, the “buzzy” quality of launching an “AI” product has caused rampant "AI-washing", meaning many products are not really using AI or are barely using AI in meaningful ways, but just looking to capitalize on marketing momentum.

But unlike the lawyer who used ChatGPT to prepare his filing (complete with citing fake precedent), all the tools below are made for legal work and are recommended by firms we’ve spoken to. That said, the golden rule of AI is to use the time you’ve saved to double check the work.

We took on the task of sorting through the many amazing tools on the market. It was hard to narrow down our top choices (including some notable up-and-comers) to these five superstars that we are confident will add value and efficiency to your practice.

Cloud-Based Document Management: NetDocuments

Documents are the heart of the operation when it comes to law. They need to be both easily accessible and secure. For that, we love NetDocuments. Used and suggested by one of our long-time clients, this cloud-based system provides you with a way to file, locate, share, and collaborate on all of your important documents, all while being completely secure. It offers a convenient feature that allows the integration of Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspaces, and Adobe Acrobat/Reader.

How secure is secure? NetDocuments is compliant with over 38 different security standards and regulations. With multiple encryption tools, access controls, and classification features, you can feel confident that any sensitive information is protected.

On top of security and document management, NetDocuments is a multifaceted software that offers a variety of products and services to keep your business running smoothly and efficiently.

Legal Research: WestLaw Precision with CoCounsel

In an industry where time is money, time management is essential. When the entire firm is in a frenzy to meet a deadline, legal research can feel like a time drag. That’s where WestLaw Precision with CoCounsel steps in to assist. This platform uses AI to make legal research 2X faster.

We all have those moments when the information we need is right at the tip of our tongue, but it just won’t come to mind. With this software, you can ask questions and receive answers that regular search engines just can’t deliver. WestLaw Precision also offers more precise technology that makes looking for and finding a case faster. 

Worried about accuracy? WestLaw Precision with CoCounsel also uses KeyCite, the industry’s choice for citator. KeyCite verifies cases, statutes, regulations, trademarks, and more to keep you and your firm on the straight and narrow. 

Legal & Compliance Workflow Builder: Autologyx

Where organization and a standard, streamlined workflow are concerned, Autologyx is our top pick. Autologyx used AI to let you create and personalize automated workflows, tasks, and documents, and 3rd party integrations. You can make your processes as simple or complex as you’d like, whatever fits your firm’s needs. 

This platform can also be used for portfolio management, contract remediation, and matter management. With everyone able to view each workflow, it keeps your team on the same page, improving internal and external collaboration. 

Time & Billing: Bilr

Spending too much time calculating hours and invoices? Try out Bilr. We’ve chosen this platform because it makes keeping track of billable hours and invoicing quick and painless.  You can record hourly and flat fee billing in any currency you need, making working with international clients or colleagues easy. 

Bilr will take care of retainer accounts, credit accounts, past due balances, overpayments, and more. Already using accounting software but wanting to switch? Bilr features easy integration with QuickBooks, LawPay, and Filevine, while also offering custom integrations as well. Bilr also allows you to keep track of your clients and projects and allows you to assign admin or colleagues to each. Get as customizable as you want with an easy, streamlined app!

Video Conferencing: Dialpad

Landlines are so 90s. Today it’s all about having a business line where you can be reached by colleagues, clients, and others from the convenience of your mobile phone, but without giving out your personal number. This is where Dialpad comes in. 

We like Dialpad because of the freedom and ease it gives its users. You can choose your business hours so you can separate your personal life from your work life. It includes messaging, chat, and video meeting. Getting too many calls and can’t keep up? Dialpad has AI that will act as your receptionist. It will field calls, handle messages, and route them wherever you need, all customizable. 

You can bring over all your existing business numbers to the app, making for a smooth transition. And one of our favorite features is the ability to send anyone a meeting link without having to attach app download instructions. Unlike its competitors, Dialpad can be opened in any browser without downloads and without account creation, making meetings with clients and others a seamless process.