No More Paper Chasing: Top 19 Legal Form Software In 2024
10 Best Legal Form Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 19 tools reviewed.
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Legal form software is a comprehensive solution that weaves together legal document management systems, email management, and billable tracking for seamless law practice operations.
It integrates features like metadata application, version control, and a robust API for interoperability with other systems. The software addresses several pain points in legal document management: lost time searching for documents, difficulty tracking billable hours, miscommunication due to unorganized emails, and concerns about document security and version control.
What Is Legal Form Software?
Legal form software is a digital platform designed to streamline the creation, editing, and management of legal forms. Its users range from solo practitioners and small law firms to large legal departments in corporations and government agencies. These software solutions are instrumental in simplifying complex legal processes, improving accuracy, and enhancing productivity and profitability.
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They automate mundane tasks, provide ready-made templates, and ensure the forms' legal compliance. Legal form software is thus used for various purposes, including contract creation, case management, intellectual property rights management, legal research, and much more. These solutions serve as a valuable tool, paving the way towards efficient legal operations in a digital era.
Best Legal Form Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| CARET Legal | From $29/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| CosmoLex | From $79/user/month (billed annually). | Website |
| Legodesk | From $17/user/month | Website |
| Alt Legal | From $60/month | Website |
| LexisNexis Automated Forms | Pricing available upon request | Website |
| Hoowla | From $30/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Legal Suite | From $49/user/month (min 5 seats) | Website |
| Legal Files | From $34/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| FormsPal | $59 for a single form | Website |
| Electronic Form Solution | From $10/user/month | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Legal Form Software Reviews
Best for dynamic and collaborative law practice management
CARET Legal is a legal practice management tool designed to foster collaboration and dynamic workflows. It facilitates not just case and document management but also enhances team collaboration within a law practice, thus making it a top choice for dynamic and collaborative law practice management.
Why I Picked CARET Legal: I chose CARET Legal for this list because of its excellent collaborative capabilities. The tool stands out for its emphasis on teamwork, featuring shared workspaces, collective task assignments, and group discussion options. This focus on collaborative workflows, combined with robust case and document management, is why I determined CARET Legal to be the best for dynamic and collaborative law practice management.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CARET Legal includes standout features like case and document management, shared workspaces, team calendars, and communication tools for internal discussions. It also has integrations with popular tools such as Office 365, Google Drive, and Dropbox, which enhance its collaborative capabilities by allowing users to sync their work across different platforms like Windows or Mac desktops.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong case and document management capabilities
- Integration with popular tools like Office 365, Google Drive, and Dropbox
- Robust collaborative features like shared workspaces and group discussions
Cons:
- Annual billing may not suit all budgeting preferences
- Pricing is higher compared to some other options
- The platform might be overwhelming for small teams or solo practitioners
CosmoLex sets the bar high with its all-in-one law practice management software and legal accounting solution, all housed in a single platform. Its unique feature set is designed to streamline and integrate every aspect of law practice management and accounting, establishing it as the best choice for law firms seeking a unified system.
Why I Picked CosmoLex: I chose CosmoLex because it fills the gap that exists in the legal form software market, integrating law practice and legal accounting within a single tool. It's distinctive in offering a solution that harmonizes both practice and accounting needs, a rare find in this space. As such, it's a clear choice as the best for law firms in need of this integrated approach.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CosmoLex boasts an integrated calendar and task system, complete matter management, and billing and accounting services within the same interface. Its feature set is rounded off with comprehensive reporting and analytic capabilities. In terms of integrations, CosmoLex pairs well with LawPay for credit card processing, and it offers seamless data migration from other popular practice management and accounting platforms.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy data migration from other platforms
- Comprehensive matter management system
- Integrates law practice and legal accounting
Cons:
- Learning curve due to its comprehensive nature
- May have more features than needed for specialized firms
- Can be more expensive for small firms
Legodesk
Best for cloud-based legal practice management with AI-powered features
Legodesk is a legal practice management software with a focus on utilizing artificial intelligence and cloud technology. It provides attorneys with a comprehensive toolset for case management, client communication, and document assembly, making it particularly useful for law firms that value advanced technology for efficiency.
Why I Picked Legodesk: I picked Legodesk for its AI-driven features and the accessibility of its cloud-based platform. It sets itself apart by offering AI tools designed to assist with tasks like case prediction, which is a unique attribute among its competitors. Given these distinctive attributes, I deem it the best for cloud-based legal practice management with AI-powered features.
Standout features & integrations:
Legodesk's most significant features include AI-assisted case prediction, document assembly, and an integrated legal research tool. Moreover, it offers integrations with platforms like Google Calendar and Outlook for seamless schedule management and with Dropbox for cloud storage.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with popular platforms like Google Calendar, Outlook, and Dropbox
- Cloud-based platform for accessibility
- AI-driven tools for prediction and automation
Cons:
- More complex features may have a steeper learning curve
- Dependence on a good internet connection due to its cloud-based nature
- AI tools may require technical understanding
Alt Legal is a top-tier software renowned for its specialized IP docketing services. The platform excels in streamlining and automating legal tasks, particularly in the realm of Intellectual Property, justifying its stature as the best for IP docketing and intuitive legal task management.
Why I Picked Alt Legal: I chose Alt Legal due to its impressive focus on IP docketing, a niche area that many general legal form software often overlook. Its unique ability to automate IP docketing and ease task management sets it apart, making it the preferred choice for businesses dealing with IP matters. It truly stands as the best for IP docketing and intuitive legal task management, with its targeted features enhancing efficiency and precision in this area.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Alt Legal offers automatic IP docketing, deadline calculations, time-tracking, and a robust task management system. The platform also provides IP-specific reporting and analytics to empower data-driven decision-making. For integrations, Alt Legal connects seamlessly with essential applications like Google Calendar, Outlook, and leading law firm management software to ensure the synchrony of tasks and deadlines.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integrations with key business applications
- Comprehensive task management system
- Specialized in IP docketing
Cons:
- Learning curve due to IP-specific features
- Pricing could be on the higher side for small firms
- Might be over-specialized for businesses not dealing with IP
LexisNexis Automated Forms is a web-based legal technology tool that provides a comprehensive library of legal forms and offers automation capabilities. It aims to simplify and accelerate the process of creating legal documents, making it an optimal choice for legal professionals seeking efficient form automation.
Why I Picked LexisNexis Automated Forms: I selected LexisNexis Automated Forms because of its extensive collection of forms and its robust automation capabilities. It stands apart due to its integration with the highly reputed LexisNexis legal research platform. I determined it to be the best tool for extensive legal form library and automation because it uniquely combines a vast form repository with efficient automation, streamlining document creation for legal professionals.
Standout features & integrations:
The standout features of LexisNexis Automated Forms include permission and access controls to thousands of forms across various practice areas and document automation software tools for efficient document creation. Its primary integration is with the LexisNexis legal research and NetDocuments platform, providing users with a comprehensive research and document creation solution.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with LexisNexis legal research platform
- Robust automation capabilities
- Extensive library of legal forms
Cons:
- Limited integrations with other software compared to some competitors
- May have a learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Pricing information is not readily available
Hoowla is a legal technology tool specialized in case management for real estate conveyancing. It enhances the efficiency and accuracy of real estate transactions, delivering a solid solution for solicitors and property professionals.
Why I Picked Hoowla: I chose Hoowla for this list because of its niche specialization in real estate conveyancing, a critical area of law that requires specific tools. What makes Hoowla stand out is its focus on simplifying the conveyancing process, providing tools that can generate quotes, manage cases, and even calculate tax. I picked it as the best tool for real estate conveyancing and case management based on its specific functionality and user-friendly design.
Standout features & integrations:
Hoowla offers notable features such as online case management, a conveyancing calculator, and a secure document and messaging system. It provides integrations with various search providers, Land Registry Services, and Companies House, delivering a connected and efficient platform for conveyancing professionals.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Secure document and messaging system
- Integration with Land Registry and Companies House
- Specialized in real estate conveyancing
Cons:
- Pricing may be high for small firms or solo practitioners
- Annual billing may not be flexible for some firms
- The niche focus may limit its use for other areas of law
Legal Suite is a legal tech software aimed at streamlining legal department operations and simplifying corporate governance processes. It is designed to handle diverse legal processes, making it a one-stop solution for large corporations and legal departments.
Why I Picked Legal Suite: I selected Legal Suite for this list due to its impressive range of features designed to handle complex legal department operations. It distinguishes itself with modules for contracts, litigation, and corporate matters, alongside strong reporting capabilities. Because of this comprehensive approach to legal department operations and corporate governance, I judged Legal Suite to be the best for this use case.
Standout features & integrations:
Legal Suite provides useful features like document management, litigation tracking, and contract lifecycle management. It offers modules for diverse areas of law, allowing for more specialized management of different legal matters. In terms of integrations, Legal Suite integrates with Microsoft Word Office tools, enhancing its document management solution (DMS) capabilities and making it easier for users to work with familiar software.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with Microsoft Office tools
- Specialized modules for different areas of law
- Comprehensive suite of tools for diverse legal department operations
Cons:
- It may have a steeper learning curve due to the range of features
- The software may be too comprehensive for small businesses or solo practitioners
- Pricing information is not readily available
Legal Files is a powerful tool designed to manage cases and matters in a holistic manner. It's intended for legal departments, law firms, universities, and government agencies seeking a comprehensive solution for all aspects of their legal practice, making it a top choice for comprehensive case and matter management.
Why I Picked Legal Files: In my comparison, I chose Legal Files due to its wide-ranging case and matter management capabilities. The software stands out because of its ability to handle a multitude of case-related details and tasks in one place, without the need for multiple systems. This comprehensive approach is what makes it the best choice for entities seeking to manage their legal cases and matters holistically.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Legal Files offers a range of standout features such as robust case management software, real-time firm document assembly and management, workflow automation, client portal, e-signature, and contact management. Its integrations with Outlook and Word make it easy for users to manage communication and documents without leaving the platform, contributing to its overall comprehensive nature.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust document assembly and management features
- Integration with widely used tools like Outlook and Word
- Comprehensive case and matter management
Cons:
- Lack of transparent pricing can make budgeting difficult
- May require a learning curve for those not familiar with comprehensive legal software
- Pricing information is not readily available
FormsPal is a robust legal form software that simplifies the process of legal form creation and completion. It offers step-by-step guidance, helping users navigate complex legal documentation with relative ease, making it ideal for those who need a more structured approach to form completion.
Why I Picked FormsPal: FormsPal earned its place on this list due to its comprehensive, guided approach to legal form creation and completion. I selected it because it differentiates itself by offering step-by-step guidance throughout the process, a feature that not all legal form software provides. As such, it stands out as the best choice for those who value or require a structured, guided approach.
Standout Features & Integrations:
FormsPal's stand-out feature is its step-by-step guide that supports users through the process of completing their legal forms. It also provides access to a vast library of legal form templates, which can be a real asset to those who regularly deal with a variety of legal matters. Regarding integrations, it is worth noting that FormsPal is a standalone tool, and thus its strength lies in its independent capabilities.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Useful for a broad spectrum of legal matters
- Extensive library of legal form templates
- Guided approach simplifies the form-completion process
Cons:
- High cost for single-form purchase
- The interface may seem plain compared to other tools
- No notable integrations
Electronic Form Solution is a versatile software that offers a variety of e-form services, streamlining operations for both small and large organizations. Its standout feature is the customizable e-form solutions, making it an excellent tool for any business seeking flexible and personalized digital forms.
Why I Picked Electronic Form Solution: I chose Electronic Form Solution for its powerful customizability, which allows users to tailor e-forms to meet their specific needs. This tool stands apart due to its intuitive form builder and variety of customizable options, making it ideal for diverse business requirements. It justifies being the best for customizable e-form solutions by providing adaptable features that can mold to the unique needs of any business.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Electronic Form Solution offers a robust form builder with an array of fields and controls for designing personalized forms. The platform supports multi-page forms, file uploads, and form logic to enhance user experience. Regarding integrations, it offers seamless connectivity with CRM and ERP systems, effectively syncing data across different business applications for a smoother workflow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-page forms and file upload support
- Strong integrations with CRM and ERP systems
- Highly customizable e-form builder
Cons:
- Higher pricing tiers can get expensive
- Limited pre-made form templates
- The user interface may require a learning curve
Other Legal Form Software
Below is a list of additional legal form software that we shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- LegalZoom
For providing an all-encompassing legal service hub
- Legal Templates
For a broad selection of free, user-friendly legal templates
- Clio
Good for comprehensive law firm management with robust features
- MyCase
Good for streamlined client communication and legal practice management
- Legal Track
Good for Microsoft Office 365 users seeking integrated case management
- LEAP
Good for solo and small law firms needing end-to-end practice management
- FindLegalForms
Good for instant access to a wide range of legal forms
- PandaDoc
Good for creating, sending, and tracking legal documents digitally
- Thread Legal
Good for collaboration and team management in legal practices
Other Legal Software Reviews
Here are some other popular types of legal software you might be interested in.
Selection Criteria For Legal Form Software
Choosing the right legal form software isn't just about finding a tool with a comprehensive library of forms. After personally testing and evaluating numerous tools, I've found that certain criteria set apart the most effective software in this field. In this case, I was particularly looking for tools that offer customizable templates, robust data security features, and intuitive user interfaces, among other things.
Core Functionality:
- Legal Form Library: The tool should offer an extensive library of legal forms covering various legal fields.
- Template Customization: The ability to customize forms and templates to fit specific legal scenarios is crucial.
- Secure Document Storage: The software should provide a secure environment for storing sensitive legal documents.
Key Features:
- Document Automation: This feature allows for the automatic generation of legal forms using predefined templates.
- Collaboration Tools: These enable multiple users to work on the same legal document simultaneously.
- Electronic Signature: This feature allows users to sign documents electronically, speeding up the document approval process.
Usability:
- Intuitive Interface: For this type of software, a simple, clean interface is essential, enabling users to find and create the forms they need without unnecessary complications.
- Quick Learning Curve: The software should be easy to grasp, even for non-technical users, allowing for a smooth onboarding process.
- Reliable Support: Comprehensive customer support is important, including resources like FAQs, tutorials, and responsive live support.
- Mobile Accessibility: In today's world, it's beneficial if the software provides a reliable mobile interface, allowing users to work from anywhere.
Most Common Questions Regarding Legal Form Software
What are the benefits of using legal form software?
Using legal form software can greatly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of legal processes. The benefits include:
- Time Savings: By using preformatted templates, legal professionals can significantly reduce the time spent on creating and formatting documents.
- Improved Accuracy: Templates ensure consistent and correct formatting, minimizing the potential for errors.
- Collaboration: Many tools offer collaborative features, allowing multiple team members to work on documents simultaneously.
- Document Management: These tools often provide secure document storage, making it easier to organize and retrieve documents.
- Automation: Some legal form software automates the process of creating routine documents, enhancing productivity.
How much do legal form software tools typically cost?
The cost of legal form software can vary widely based on features, the size of the user base, and whether the software is cloud-based, web-based, or installed locally. The pricing typically follows a per-user, per-month model, but some tools may offer annual subscriptions at a discount.
What are the typical pricing models for legal form software?
The most common pricing models for legal form software are subscription-based, either monthly or annually. These subscriptions often come tiered, meaning you pay more for access to additional features. Some tools also offer one-time purchase licenses, but this is less common.
What is the typical range of pricing for legal form software?
Pricing can range from around $10 per user per month for basic packages to over $100 for more advanced features and larger user bases like Smokeball. It’s important to note that many providers offer custom quotes for large organizations.
What is the cheapest legal form software?
One of the more affordable options on the market is Legal Templates and PracticePanther, which offers a range of free, user-friendly templates.
What is the most expensive legal form software?
Higher-end software like LEAP and iManage can cost over $100 per user per month, due to its extensive features and integrated practice management capabilities.
Are there any free options for legal form software?
Yes, there are free options available. Legal Templates, for instance, offers a range of free templates. However, these options often have limited features compared to their paid counterparts. It’s always important to assess your specific needs and the security measures in place when considering a free tool.
Other Legal Document Solutions Reviewed
Here are some other tools you may need if you are looking for legal document solutions.
Summary
In conclusion, choosing the best legal form software requires careful consideration of your specific needs. The diverse market offers tools with various features, integrations, pricing, and suitability for different practice areas.
Here are three key takeaways to guide your decision:
- Identify Core Needs: Determine the core functionalities you require in your practice. This could range from extensive legal form libraries to AI-powered features. Selecting software that aligns closely with your requirements will ensure you derive maximum value from the investment.
- Assess Usability and Support: A tool that offers a user-friendly interface and robust customer support can dramatically improve your experience. Pay attention to aspects such as the ease of onboarding, tool design, and customer support availability when making your choice.
- Consider Pricing and Value: While cost is an important factor, the focus should be on the value the software provides. A more expensive tool may offer comprehensive features that save time and reduce errors, ultimately offering better value for money. Remember, there are options available to suit various budget constraints, from free tools to premium software.
Making an informed choice based on these key aspects can help you pick a legal form software that not only meets your current needs but also scales with your practice over time.
What Do You Think?
Absolutely, your input matters! If there are other legal form software options you've found useful and think should be on this list, I'd love to hear about them. Your suggestions and experiences can help guide this ongoing conversation about the best tools available.
So, feel free to comment or reach out with your thoughts. Let's keep this a dynamic and informative resource for everyone in the legal community.