5 Legal Tech Hacks All Family Law Firms Need to Enhance their Practices

Technology has played a major role in the advancement of the legal industry over the last decade. These innovations have improved various aspects of legal practice, including streamlining internal firm processes and strengthening client relations through improved communication tools. This post will zero in on five legal technologies that domestic law firms need to enhance their busy practices.  

Cloud-Based Document Management

Cloud-based document management is a technological solution that has broken through the physical barrier of in-office meetings by utilizing computers or mobile devices to access pertinent documents and other files. It facilitates easy storage, fast retrieval, and quick reference to all matter-related documents. Cloud-based document management saves family law firms time, money, and valuable resources by allowing members secure access to firm files from virtually anywhere.  

With useful features like the ability to perform text-based file searches, firm members can quickly locate and access the documents they need without physically searching through piles of paper folders. They can also modify and synchronize data in real-time so that all firm files remain consistently updated along with an accessible trail of former versions. Unlimited storage space and disaster recovery also prove extremely valuable in the event of unexpected business disruptions. 

Cloud-based document management also allows private and secure sharing of documents with other credentialed parties. This feature makes for confident remote sharing of documents with clients, opposing counsels, and staff. Family attorneys can work from anywhere while staying on top of the constant changes that can occur within domestic law matters.  

VoIP 

Just like accessing files from anywhere, with VoIP law firms can also communicate with their clients and colleagues from anywhere via one contact number. VoIP systems allow firm members to utilize streamlined contact channels even when working in various physical locations.   

With VOIP technologies, no matter where lawyers are located, clients and other matter parties can maintain contact with them through the firm’s official contact numbers. Firm members no longer have to use their personal phones for these communications so they appear more professional and minimize the confusion that can arise when clients receive calls from unfamiliar phone numbers.   

Electronic Billing

As family law tasks are completed, clients must be billed. And if this process is not completed effectively, major cash flow problems can result. Manual billing includes a higher possibility for human error, a problem not experienced by law firms using electronic billing. It is the best option for family law firms because it streamlines invoicing processes and even provides the tools necessary to handle billing remotely. Collectively, all of this culminates in faster billing and quicker receipt of client payments in full. 

Billing technology can also lead to greater profitability for family law firms. By minimizing time spent on the billing process, these software options help free up valuable hours that can now be used to complete client tasks that bring in revenue.  

Payment reminders offer another electronic billing benefit by automatically sending scheduled reminders to clients as soon as their bills become due and/or overdue. This administrative function helps lower accounts receivables while maintaining professional client relationships.  

Automatic Payments   

Prescheduled payments options cater to clients with the convenience of paying their bills automatically. Firms can safely store payment information for their clients, whether it be by bank card or ACH, and process the payments on the due dates. Depending on the billing cycle and how the client wants to pay, funds due to the firm are automatically charged from the client as agreed.   

One such solution is the TimeSolv legal billing software that automatically schedules bill payments via the unique TimeSolvPay feature. Client payment data is stored securely and run for payment per the agreed-upon timeline. TimeSolvPay offers a few advantages: 

• The time that would otherwise be spent on collections efforts and client notifications can be better spent on billable tasks. 
• Enhanced forecasting from the reliability of automated payments.  
• An effective tool for reaching zero AR within a family law practice.  

Automated payments are a relatively new technology within the legal industry but one that can offer valuable benefits to domestic relations law firms.  

Videoconferencing 

This tech solution erases the need to be physically present in order to meet with clients, staff, and colleagues. In recent times, videoconferencing has become an essential communication tool. Popular applications such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams provide attorneys with a convenient alternative to traditional in-person meetings, as they allow for face-to-face contact in a virtual setting.   

Additional features like text-based communications and screen sharing further aid needed in vital communications. Moreover, videoconferencing is increasingly being used by the courts to facilitate communication in various types of domestic law matters.  

Technology is the Order of the Day for Family Law Firms

The more technologies advance within the legal industry, the more law firms can benefit from viable alternatives to the more traditional ways of practicing law. These five key technologies can lead your family law firm well into this new year performing optimally and competing in the legal market. To learn more about TimeSolvPay, visit this website link for a free consultation.