21 Best Legal Time Tracking Software for Easy Billing In 2024
10 Best Legal Time Tracking Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 21 tools reviewed.
Get free help from our project management software advisors to find your match.
As someone who knows the ins and outs of the legal field, I understand the challenges you face daily—like keeping track of billable hours, managing invoices, and maintaining a productive workflow. That's where legal time tracking software can help.
Legal time tracking software solves common problems around managing time entries and ensuring billing accuracy; integrating with practice tools; enforcing legal billing standards; and providing precise time records to avoid disputes. If you find yourself struggling to track billable hours accurately and efficiently, you might be in need of legal time tracking software.
As a legal tech analyst, keep reading for my top recommendations.
How To Choose The Best Legal Time Tracking Software
⬜ What are your goals for employing a legal time tracking system?
⬜ Have you ever used legal time tracking tools before?
⬜ How many users will need access to the tool? And how often?
⬜ What are 3 key software features you can't live without?
⬜ What unique or niche needs does your company have?
⬜ What channels does it need to connect to? (ie. billing software)
⬜ What's your budget for a legal time tracking platform?
It could be helpful to write down the answers to these questions before you start reading the reviews below. That way, you can measure each tool against the features, functionality, and flexibility you actually need.
Best Legal Time Tracking Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Deel | Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people | Website |
| Insightful | From $8/user/month | Website |
| TimeCamp | From $2.99/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Clio | From $39/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Zoho Invoice | From $9/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Bill4Time | From $27/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Actionstep | From $60/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| CaseFox | From $10/user/month | Website |
| App4Legal | From $9 /user/month billed annually. | Website |
| Amberlo | Pricing starts with a free plan for solo lawyers. | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Legal Time Tracking Software Reviews
Deel is a global HR, payroll, and compliance platform that helps companies manage remote teams across different countries.
Why I Picked Deel: For legal teams, the time tracker widget lets you and your team clock in and out on both desktop and mobile, tracking time more accurately to reduce the chance of payroll errors and ensure accurate billing. You can set permissions to control timesheet adjustments, which can be essential for tracking billable hours accurately in legal practice. Plus, with hours directly linked to payroll, billing, and expense management, Deel lets you focus on legal work instead of administrative tasks.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include global payroll, contractor management, automated compliance, onboarding support, tax compliance, document management, benefits administration, expense management, employee self-service, support for local currency payouts, and mobile access.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Hubstaff, Brex, Personio, Sage, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Workable, UKG Ready, QuickBooks, Xero, and BambooHR.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Emphasizes global compliance
- Connects time-tracking to payroll and billing
- Mobile app available
Cons:
- Limited law-specific features
- Could offer the ability to write more detailed notes for different work periods
Insightful is a productivity management tool designed to enhance workforce efficiency through comprehensive analytics and real-time monitoring.
Why I Picked Insightful: The platform offers automatic time mapping, which reduces human error and ensures that every billable minute is accurately captured. This is particularly beneficial for legal professionals who need to account for time spent on various activities such as client meetings, email correspondence, and phone calls. The software also generates clear, data-rich reports that provide transparency to clients, which can help in quickly resolving any billing disputes.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include time tracking, activity monitoring, screen monitoring and capture for better dispute resolution, AI insights, billable hour tracking, and report exports for generating invoices.
Integrations include 7Shifts, ADP Workforce Now, Adobe Workfront, Aha!, AlexisHR, AllianceHCM, Asana, Azure DevOps, BambooHR, Basecamp, Bitbucket, and Ceridian Dayforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good data visualization
- Scalable for growing practices
- Customizable reporting options
Cons:
- Potential limitations for integrations with niche legal tools
- Some advanced features may have a learning curve
TimeCamp
Best for attorneys desiring a detailed view of time utilization
TimeCamp is a versatile time tracking tool that allows for deep insights into how time is spent. It is a perfect fit for attorneys looking for detailed time utilization information to optimize their workflows and increase productivity.
Why I Picked TimeCamp: In my search for an optimal time tracking app for attorneys, TimeCamp's detailed reporting functionality stood out. What sets it apart is its ability to deliver a comprehensive view of how time is spent, thus helping attorneys to optimize their efficiency. Given this capability, I deemed TimeCamp best for attorneys who desire a detailed view of their time utilization.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include automatic time tracking app, detailed reports, and a user-friendly dashboard that makes it easy to get an overview of time utilization.
Integrations include popular tools like Trello, Asana, Google Calendar, and more, making it easy to sync data and work efficiently.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly dashboard simplifies data interpretation
- Integrates well with popular productivity and project management tools
- Detailed reports offer comprehensive insights into time utilization
Cons:
- The interface might feel less modern compared to some of its competitors
- Some users may find the auto-tracking feature intrusive
- May not be as feature-rich as some other tools in terms of project management
Clio
Best for firms seeking a complete legal practice management suite
Clio is a comprehensive legal practice management software that offers a variety of functionalities, including case management, billing, client intake, and more. Designed specifically for law firms, it provides a centralized platform for lawyers to handle all aspects of their practice effectively. Considering its extensive features tailored to the unique needs of law offices, Clio is best suited for firms seeking a complete practice management solution.
Why I Picked Clio: When choosing Clio, I appreciated its specialized, all-in-one approach to legal practice management. It's different from other tools due to its comprehensive feature set that caters specifically to legal practitioners. This is why I chose Clio as the 'Best for...' firms that want a complete solution for managing their legal practice without the need for multiple, disjointed tools.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include detailed case management, robust billing and invoicing, client intake and relationship management, and task tracking. The platform also offers a client portal for secure communication and document sharing.
Integrations include popular software like QuickBooks, LawPay, Dropbox, and Microsoft Office 365, providing users with a well-rounded, efficient workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with popular software
- Secure client portal for communication and document sharing
- Comprehensive, all-in-one legal practice management
Cons:
- The learning curve might be steep for non-tech savvy users
- Higher price point compared to more basic tools
- May be too feature-rich for smaller firms
Best for firms needing personalized, professional invoice creation
Zoho Invoice is a cloud-based invoicing software specifically designed for businesses to manage their invoices effectively and professionally. For firms that require a personalized touch to their invoices, Zoho Invoice is an ideal choice due to its advanced customization options and user-friendly interface.
Why I Picked Zoho Invoice: As I was evaluating various invoicing tools, Zoho Invoice came across as a tool that has successfully combined the ease of use with a high degree of customization, and it particularly excels in creating professional and personalized invoices. This is why I picked Zoho Invoice as the best option for firms that are in need of custom and professional invoice creation.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include detailed and personalized invoices, manage clients and projects, and even automate payment reminders. The tool provides various customization options for invoices, including custom fields, templates, and branding options.
Integrations include a range of applications, such as Zoho CRM, Zoho Projects, Zoho Books, and popular payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated reminders for payments streamline the invoicing process
- Wide range of integrations with Zoho apps and other popular applications
- Advanced customization options for professional and personalized invoices
Cons:
- More integrations with third-party apps outside the Zoho ecosystem would be beneficial
- Lacks advanced project management features compared to some competitors
- The interface may take some time to get used to due to numerous features
Best for billing, invoicing, and a client portal in one place
Bill4Time is a comprehensive legal time tracking and billing software that combines the power of an intuitive invoicing system with a versatile client portal. It's a one-stop solution for law firms that are looking to manage billing, invoicing, and client interactions within a single platform.
Why I Picked Bill4Time: I chose Bill4Time for its comprehensive blend of billing, invoicing, and client portal features. This blend makes it an all-in-one tool, a rarity in the market, and its intuitive design ensures that these features work harmoniously together. For law firms seeking a unified solution for these areas, Bill4Time stands out as the best fit.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include detailed time entries, streamlined invoice creation, and a client portal that facilitates secure client communications and document sharing.
Integrations include popular applications such as QuickBooks, PayPal, and Stripe make it easy to sync data and simplify financial operations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing with a comprehensive feature set
- Integrated client portal for easy communication and document sharing
- Comprehensive billing and invoicing capabilities
Cons:
- Certain features may have a steep learning curve for new users
- User interface can seem outdated compared to some other tools
- Limited customizability may not suit firms with unique workflow requirements
Best for managing workflows and automating administrative tasks
Actionstep is a comprehensive, cloud-based legal practice management software solution. It's particularly strong in managing workflows and automating administrative tasks, making it an asset for busy law firms.
Why I Picked Actionstep: Among the plethora of tools I considered, Actionstep stood out to me for its robust capabilities in managing workflows and automating administrative tasks. Its unique workflow technology and full-featured platform make it distinct from many others on the market. Given these strengths, I believe Actionstep is best suited for law firms seeking to streamline their workflow and reduce administrative burdens.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include robust workflow management, document management, and CRM capabilities, making it a comprehensive solution for law firms. It's also worth mentioning its powerful task automation feature that can handle routine tasks, freeing up more time for legal work.
Integrations include a variety of tools, including Microsoft Office 365, Xero, and Quickbooks, to make the management of a law firm a more faultless process.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good range of integrations, including Microsoft Office 365 and accounting software
- Comprehensive suite of features
- Powerful workflow and automation capabilities
Cons:
- Some users report that the software has a learning curve
- Could be overwhelming for users who don't require such a wide range of features
- Might be expensive for small law firms or solo practitioners
CaseFox
Best for firms seeking advanced case management and time tracking
Casefox is a cloud-based legal time tracking and case management software, crafted specifically for attorneys, paralegals, and other legal professionals. This tool shines particularly in delivering advanced case management coupled with efficient timer
Why I Picked Casefox: Casefox stood out among the multitude of options due to its specialized focus on advanced case management and efficient time tracking. The software is not merely a generic solution, but one tailored to meet the specific needs of legal firms. This specialization led me to determine that Casefox is the best option for firms that require sophisticated case management capabilities intertwined with time tracking.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include case notes, task tracking, invoice generation, and trust accounting, all designed to support efficient legal operations. Its built-in timesheets can track billable hours efficiently, making the billing process a less daunting task.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Google Calendar, and Dropbox, among others, to streamline workflow and information access.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Accessible pricing, starting from $10/user/month
- Comprehensive feature set tailored for legal firms
- Advanced case management and time tracking
Cons:
- Customer support may not always be prompt, as reported by some users
- Initial setup might take some time due to the range of features
- User interface could be more intuitive
App4Legal is a comprehensive law practice management solution that facilitates efficient case and document management. The platform is tailored to cater to the needs of law firms, providing tools for managing legal matters, clients, and more. Its multi-functionality, particularly in case and document management, makes it an ideal tool for firms that handle a significant amount of case files and legal documents.
Why I Picked App4Legal: I chose App4Legal for its multi-functional approach to law practice management, with a particular emphasis on case and document handling. What makes it stand out among the other tools is its comprehensive suite of features designed to simplify legal processes. I believe it's the best choice for firms that require a reliable system for managing numerous cases and associated documents.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include a comprehensive case management module that allows firms to handle multiple cases efficiently. It also offers robust document management capabilities, providing a centralized location for storing and accessing important files.
Integrations include platforms like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and various CRM systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Tailored specifically for the needs of law firms
- Impeccable integrations with popular platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
- Comprehensive case and document management features
Cons:
- Customizability may be limited compared to other platforms
- Mobile application for android and iOS could use improvement
- Learning curve might be steep for those unfamiliar with practice management software
Amberlo
Best for cloud-based convenience with integrated expense tracking
Amberlo is a comprehensive legal management software designed for legal professionals and law firms. With a focus on cloud-based convenience, it offers the ability to track time and expenses all in one platform.
Why I Picked Amberlo: In my search for the top legal time tracking software, I selected Amberlo primarily for its impeccable integration of time and expense tracking in a cloud-based environment. This feature set offers law professionals an opportunity to manage their time and associated costs from anywhere. The tool stands out with its commitment to convenience and flexibility, making it the best for those who value these aspects.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include case management, invoicing, and billing on top of its time and expense tracking capabilities. It also provides an intuitive dashboard that presents a complete overview of your firm’s activities.
Integrations include Google Calendar, enabling the scheduling of appointments and meetings directly from the platform.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Google Calendar integration for effective scheduling
- Robust feature set that includes case management and invoicing
- Convenient cloud-based platform for anywhere access
Cons:
- Complex interface may require a learning curve
- Lacks integration with other popular software like Outlook
- Higher cost compared to other options
Other Legal Time Tracker Software
Below is a list of additional legal practice management software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- TimeSolv
Best for firms wanting robust project management features
- TimeSlips
Best for law offices prioritizing user-friendly time tracking
- Time59
Best for solo practitioners needing comprehensive time tracking
- Harvest
Best for teams that value easy integrations with existing tools
- CosmoLex
Good for firms looking for built-in legal accounting
- actiTIME
Good for freelancers and small teams needing basic time management
- LegalTrek
Good for larger firms requiring custom legal solutions
- Toggl
Good for teams wanting intuitive time tracking
- LegalFiles
Good for managing complex legal documents and cases
- TimeLedger
Good for businesses that require real-time expense tracking
- ProTempus
Good for small to mid-sized firms wanting an all-in-one practice management software
Other Legal Software Reviews
Here are some other popular types of legal software you might be interested in.
Legal Time Tracking Software Selection Criteria
When it comes to legal timekeeping and legal billing guidance, a few crucial factors come into play when picking the right tools. My criteria relate to specific software buyer needs, pain points, and the intended use of the software. I have personally tried and researched these tools to provide an informed perspective.
Core Legal Time Tracking Software Functionality - 25% of total weighting score:
- Time entry and tracking
- Billing and invoicing
- Reporting and analytics
- Integration with other legal software
- Mobile access
Additional Standout Features - 25% of total weighting score:
- AI-driven time capture
- Customizable dashboards
- Advanced reporting capabilities
- Integration with third-party applications
- Tools like Clio and TimeSolv leverage innovative features
Usability - 10% of total weighting score:
- Intuitive interface design
- Drag-and-drop functionality
- Customizable user settings
- Role-based access control
- Minimal learning curve
Onboarding - 10% of total weighting score:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Chatbots for instant support
- Webinars for in-depth training
- Templates for quick setup
Customer Support - 10% of total weighting score:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels (phone, email, chat)
- Dedicated account managers
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Fast response times
Value For Money - 10% of total weighting score:
- Transparent pricing models
- Flexible subscription plans
- Free trial availability
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Cost vs. feature comparison
Customer Reviews - 10% of total weighting score:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on ease of use
- Comments on customer support quality
- Reviews on feature effectiveness
- User testimonials on ROI
Trends For Legal Time Tracking Software
Legal time tracking software is a type of legal billing solution that is evolving rapidly with new technology like AI and automation. Here are key trends shaping the landscape:
AI-Powered Time Capture
AI is increasingly used to automate time entry, reducing human error and administrative burden. This technology learns from user behavior, offering smarter, more accurate time tracking. Its importance lies in maximizing billable hours with minimal effort.
Seamless Integration with Practice Management Tools
New software solutions emphasize deep integration with existing practice management systems. This allows for a unified workflow, minimizing disruptions and enhancing productivity. It’s a game-changer for firms looking to streamline operations.
Mobile-First Design
Mobile accessibility is a top priority, with apps designed for lawyers on the go. These tools enable real-time tracking from any location, ensuring no billable hour is missed. This trend underscores the shift towards more flexible, remote work environments.
Enhanced Security Features
As data breaches rise, legal time tracking software increasingly focuses on advanced security protocols. Encryption and multi-factor authentication are now standard, safeguarding sensitive client information. This trend is critical for maintaining client trust and compliance.
Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics are being integrated to forecast billable hours and project timelines. This technology offers firms a strategic advantage by improving resource allocation and financial planning. It’s a significant step forward in proactive legal management.
What Is A Legal Time Tracking Software?
Legal time tracking software is a specialized tool designed to help law firms and legal professionals manage their time and billing more efficiently. Primarily, it's used to track billable hours spent on various cases, but its functionality often extends far beyond that.
Robust legal time tracking software can facilitate everything from creating invoices and processing payments to scheduling appointments and managing case documents. Attorneys, paralegals, legal secretaries, and even entire law firms use this software to optimize their operations and ensure accurate billing.
The goal is to automate and simplify administrative tasks, allowing legal professionals to devote more time and energy to their core work: practicing law.
Features Of Legal Time Tracking Software
When choosing legal time tracking software, it's crucial to focus on features that will streamline your workflow and enhance productivity. Here are the key features to look for that ensure your software meets the demands of a modern law practice.
- Automated Time Entry: Automatically captures time spent on tasks, reducing the risk of missed billable hours.
- Integration with Practice Management Tools: Syncs seamlessly with your existing systems, creating a unified workflow that saves time and minimizes errors.
- Mobile Accessibility: Allows you to track time from anywhere, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to record billable hours.
- Customizable Reporting: Generates reports tailored to your firm's specific needs, offering insights that support informed decision-making.
- Billing and Invoicing: Simplifies the process of converting tracked time into accurate invoices, speeding up payment cycles.
- Security and Compliance: Protects sensitive client data with strong encryption and compliance features, maintaining trust and regulatory adherence.
- User-Friendly Interface: Offers an intuitive design that requires minimal training, allowing your team to get up to speed quickly.
- Timekeeping Analytics: Provides data-driven insights into time usage, helping you optimize productivity and identify areas for improvement.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Enables team members to collaborate on time tracking in real-time, improving coordination and efficiency.
- Client Access Portal: Allows clients to view their invoices and time logs, enhancing transparency and trust.
Choosing software with these features ensures that your firm operates efficiently, maintains compliance, and maximizes billable hours.
Benefits Of Legal Time Tracking Software
Investing in legal time tracking software offers significant advantages for both individual users and organizations. Here are the primary benefits that make this software a valuable asset for law firms.
- Increased Accuracy: Reduces errors in time entry, ensuring that every billable minute is accounted for, leading to more accurate invoicing.
- Enhanced Productivity: Automates routine tasks, allowing lawyers to focus more on client work and less on administrative duties, ultimately boosting overall efficiency.
- Improved Financial Management: Provides real-time insights into billable hours and expenses, helping firms better manage budgets and forecast revenues.
- Stronger Client Relationships: Increases transparency by providing clients with detailed time logs and accurate invoices, which fosters trust and satisfaction.
- Compliance and Security: Ensures that all time-tracking data is stored securely and complies with industry regulations, protecting both the firm and its clients.
These benefits demonstrate why legal time tracking software is essential for modern law practices. It not only optimizes operations but also strengthens client relationships and financial performance.
Costs And Pricing Of Legal Time Tracking Software
This section provides an estimate of average plans and costs for legal time tracking software. Pricing varies by plan type, with features scaling to meet different needs.
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic time tracking, limited users, standard reports |
| Personal Plan | $10/mo | Advanced time tracking, mobile access, basic invoicing |
| Business Plan | $30/mo | Integration with practice management tools, customizable reports, team collaboration |
| Enterprise Plan | $75/mo | AI-powered features, enhanced security, unlimited users, priority support |
Most Common Questions Regarding Legal Time Tracking Software (FAQ's)
How can I ensure my legal time tracking software integrates smoothly with existing systems?
Most legal time tracking software offers integration with common practice management tools. Before choosing software, check compatibility with your current systems. Many vendors provide detailed documentation or customer support to assist with the integration process, ensuring a smooth transition.
This is especially important if you use small law firm billing software, as some are limited in their integrations to save on cost.
What security measures should I look for in legal time tracking software?
Look for features like data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and compliance with industry standards like GDPR or HIPAA. These measures help protect sensitive client information and maintain the integrity of your data. Regular software updates and audits are also crucial for maintaining security.
Can legal time tracking software handle multiple billing rates for different clients?
Yes, most advanced legal time tracking software allows you to set different billing rates for various clients, matters, or even individual tasks. This flexibility ensures accurate billing and helps manage complex fee structures easily.
How do I manage user permissions within legal time tracking software?
User permissions can be managed through role-based access controls. This feature allows you to assign different levels of access to users based on their roles within the firm. For example, partners might have full access, while associates have limited access to certain data.
Is it possible to track non-billable hours effectively with legal time tracking software?
Yes, legal time tracking software typically allows you to differentiate between billable and non-billable hours. This feature helps you understand where time is spent and manage internal resources more effectively, ensuring that non-billable hours are accounted for.
What support options are typically available for legal time tracking software?
Support options often include email, phone support, live chat, and a comprehensive knowledge base. Some vendors also offer premium support packages with faster response times and dedicated account managers, especially at higher pricing tiers.
How do I ensure data accuracy when transitioning to new legal time tracking software?
Start with a data migration plan that includes backing up current data, testing the migration process, and conducting thorough data validation checks post-migration. Many vendors provide migration assistance or tools to help you transfer data accurately.
What reporting capabilities should I expect from legal time tracking software?
Expect customizable reports that cover billable hours, productivity metrics, and financial summaries. The best software will allow you to filter data by client, matter, or time period, giving you insights tailored to your firm’s specific needs.
Can legal time tracking software handle (UTBMS) legal billing codes?
Yes, most legal time tracking software can handle UTBMS legal billing codes. By integrating these codes, the software helps lawyers categorize their tasks more efficiently, ensuring accurate billing and alignment with client expectations.
Other Legal Billing Solutions Reviewed
Here are some other tools you may need if you are looking for legal billing systems and tools.
Conclusion
The best legal time tracking software effectively combines lawyer time tracking with robust legal billing software features. These tools simplify tracking non-billable time and streamline the process to bill clients accurately. Top solutions often include elements of law practice management software, providing a comprehensive approach to managing legal practices efficiently.
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