When we think of how processes used to look a decade ago in the legal industry, it would be a lengthy structure in order to get in touch with a lawyer or law firm about a case. You would have to either call or email the firm, discuss the matter with a receptionist, inform the solicitor and then it would only be at the solicitors convenience that you would be able to have an appointment with them.
10 years on, in 2020 it’s all about convenience and implementing technologies that’ll make it easier for clients in this aspect. The legal industry is becoming increasingly familiar with changing times and coming to terms with the digital technological advancements that they can currently utilise.
Law firms are now able to provide a more immediate service for their clients. They can now be more transparent with their services and onboard clients more easily. With this being said, how should your legal technology look in 2020?
Productivity
Manual processes in a law firm can be long and outdated. You need to be able to use software that is efficient and mistake ridden, particularly as much of the information received in law firms is highly sensitive.
This is where cloud-based technology can be at its best. Unlike hosting servers, cloud based storage is an inexpensive method that is easy to maintain for the whole business. It’s easily accessible for any member of staff, which means they can have access to the right documents any time they need it.
Security
With so much sensitive information passing through the firm, it’s important that law firms have the latest and updated security to protect client details and ensure it’s secure. Choose a cloud-based security system that is well backed up and encrypts data regularly. This is to prevent hacks from occurring.
Profitability
Efficient software means time and money can be saved, increasing profit margins for the present and the future. This means that your time can be better used for practising law.
If you’re able to have a software that produces timesheets and invoices quickly, transactions can be dealt with easily. This means improvements in your cash flow and less need for waste from paper documents or time to produce timesheets manually.
Self-Promotion
As well as internal processes, technology is also required to promote your business and get potential clients through the door to help your growth. Ensure your website is well optimised and maintained so consumers can discover you on the web.
Web portals and appointment forms also mean firms can be transparent with their pricing and their processes to see solicitors. Clients can see their availability and make appointments easily online, meaning they can deal with their bookings at any time of the day.
Legal Technology in 2020
Regardless of whether you’re a firm of contentious probate solicitors or often deal with dispute resolution, you should be ahead of the times when it comes to moving with business trends. Technological advancements make it easier for clients to get in touch and help your business to flow efficiently. Be sure that you’re up to date with the latest technology as a law firm and get ahead of your competition before they do.
