Guide To The Top 22 Legal Writing Software Of 2024
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12 Best Legal Writing Software Shortlist
I've compiled this shortlist of the very best legal writing software of 2023 and what each one is best suited for:
- Wealth Docx - Best for intricate estate planning needs
- Legito - Best for automated and efficient legal document drafting
- HotDocs - Best for turning frequently used documents into reusable templates
- Definely - Best for speedy and accurate contract reading
- GhostPractice - Best for efficient law practice management with billing functionality
- Litera - Best for drafting professional legal documents in Microsoft Word
- MyCase - Best for integrating document automation in case management
- Appara - Best for utilizing AI in transforming legal document drafting
- Disco - Best for e-discovery with robust AI and cloud technology
- Drafting Assistant by Thomson Reuters - Best for leveraging legal research while drafting documents
- SmartAdvocate - Best for comprehensive case management software designed for injury law firms
- Westlaw Edge - Best for data-driven legal research to drive better decision-making
Legal writing software isn't just an editing tool or a grammar checker. It's like having your personal proofreader, Hemingway editor, and law school professor rolled into one, offering editing suggestions as you write. It leverages machine learning to help improve your writing by identifying precedents, checking for plagiarism, creating a table of authorities, and much more.
The main benefit? It frees up your time for more important tasks while ensuring your documents adhere to the American legal style. If you're grappling with maintaining consistency in your legal documents, struggling with catching those elusive grammar mistakes or readability issues, then legal writing software might be your saving grace.
Some even come with a free version that can prove to be a useful asset for law students or those on a budget. So let's dive into the world of legal writing software and explore options that could potentially transform your legal writing process.
What Is Legal Writing Software?
Legal writing software is a digital tool used by legal professionals—attorneys, paralegals, law firms, and in-house legal departments. This innovative technology assists in drafting legal documents, contracts, briefs, and memoranda, helping professionals navigate the intricacies of legal language with precision and clarity.
Besides automating repetitive tasks, it aids in managing case documents, integrating research within the drafting process, and maintaining consistency across various legal materials. The result is a more streamlined, efficient, and effective law practice that ultimately enhances client service and satisfaction.
Overviews of the 12 Best Legal Writing Software
1. Wealth Docx - Best for intricate estate planning needs
Wealth Docx is a pioneering tool that provides an extensive system for drafting estate planning documents. It helps legal professionals generate complex, tailored, state-specific estate planning documents catering to various client needs.
Why I Picked Wealth Docx:
In the realm of estate planning, Wealth Docx stands out for its ability to handle complexity with ease. Its wide-ranging forms library and state-specific document adjustments make it a unique tool in this niche. I picked it because its expansive features cater to a wide variety of estate planning situations. It's best for intricate estate planning needs because of its robustness and adaptability, serving both simple and complex client requirements equally well.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Wealth Docx excels with features such as comprehensive document drafting, integrated notes, and forms library. Its intuitive interface enables effortless navigation through documents, allowing for smooth drafting and editing. Wealth Docx integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Word, which means users can easily create, edit, and manage their documents in a familiar environment.
Pricing:
Wealth Docx pricing starts from $200/user/month, with a minimum of one seat.
Pros
- Extensive estate planning documents system
- State-specific adjustments for document creation
- Integration with Microsoft Word
Cons
- High pricing point compared to other tools
- The interface may be complicated for beginners
- Limited to estate planning; lacks broad legal document management
2. Legito - Best for automated and efficient legal document drafting
Legito is a dynamic software tool designed to enhance the legal document drafting process. It offers an automated system that generates precise and professional documents while improving efficiency in the drafting process.
Why I Picked Legito:
Among a vast selection of tools, Legito caught my attention with its superior automation capabilities in document drafting. The ability to automate a traditionally labor-intensive process is truly distinctive.
I find Legito best for automated and efficient legal document drafting as it drastically reduces drafting time, decreases errors, and maintains consistency, making it a high-value tool for any busy legal professional.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Legito boasts a suite of helpful features like interactive templates, workflow automation, and smart document storage. Its interactive templates enable customization according to specific client needs while ensuring legal precision. As for integrations, Legito connects with a range of other software such as Google Drive, Microsoft Office, and various CRM tools, enhancing usability and streamlining your work process.
Pricing:
Pricing for Legito starts from $15/user/month (billed annually).
Pros
- Robust document automation capabilities
- Wide variety of integrations for seamless workflows
- Interactive and customizable templates
Cons
- Pricing may be high for small firms or single practitioners
- Requires a learning curve to fully utilize all features
- Annual billing could be a downside for those who prefer monthly payments
3. HotDocs - Best for turning frequently used documents into reusable templates
HotDocs is a proficient legal writing software popular for transforming regularly used documents into intelligent, reusable templates. These templates can be customized quickly, saving legal professionals considerable time and reducing the risk of errors.
Why I Picked HotDocs:
After reviewing several tools, HotDocs surfaced as a standout with its innovative approach to template creation. Its capability to convert frequently used documents into templates that can be reused and easily tailored for new clients makes it distinct in the market.
I selected HotDocs for this list because it's best for turning frequently used documents into reusable templates, greatly enhancing efficiency in a field where time is of the essence.
Standout Features & Integrations:
HotDocs is packed with features such as dynamic template creation, interactive interviews for document customization, and an enterprise-grade document generation engine. This allows for high-volume document production, which is a significant benefit for large firms. It integrates with numerous third-party systems like Microsoft Word and Excel, as well as popular case management systems, for a seamless working experience.
Pricing:
HotDocs pricing starts from $20/user/month (billed annually).
Pros
- Efficient creation of reusable document templates
- High-volume document production capability
- Seamless integration with other commonly used software
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- High cost for small-scale users or solo practitioners
- Limited utility outside document template creation
4. Definely - Best for speedy and accurate contract reading
Definely is a standout tool with a laser focus on contract reading, assisting legal professionals in comprehending complex contracts rapidly and accurately. It simplifies legal jargon and highlights essential points, making it ideal for fast, precise contract review.
Why I Picked Definely:
In assessing various legal writing software, Definely impressed me with its specialized approach. Its unique AI algorithms simplify and streamline the contract reading process, making it one of a kind. I chose Definely for this list as it's best for those who need to review contracts efficiently, combining speed with accuracy.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Definely boasts AI technology that simplifies the legal language, provides definitions for legal terms, and highlights key contract points. It also features collaboration tools for teams. Integration with Microsoft Word and other document formats ensures you can work directly in your preferred environment.
Pricing:
Pricing for Definely starts at $50/user/month, with discounts available for larger teams.
Pros
- Fast, accurate contract reading capabilities
- Excellent integration with Microsoft Word
- Useful collaboration features for team-based contract review
Cons
- Higher cost compared to other tools
- Limited functionality outside of contract review
- Less intuitive for non-legal users
5. GhostPractice - Best for efficient law practice management with billing functionality
GhostPractice is an advanced law practice management software designed to help legal professionals streamline their work. With a robust billing system embedded in its heart, this tool is a powerful assistant for law firms who aim for efficiency and financial clarity.
Why I Picked GhostPractice:
Through my comparisons, GhostPractice stood out for its integrated billing functionality, a feature not commonly found in legal writing software. This blend of law practice management with a financial system made it a unique choice. I chose GhostPractice for this list because it's best for law firms wanting to combine their legal tasks with an effective billing solution, promoting overall efficiency.
Standout Features & Integrations:
GhostPractice's standout features include comprehensive billing and accounting tools, case management, time tracking, and powerful reporting capabilities. The software integrates smoothly with popular productivity tools like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, ensuring easy adoption into any workflow.
Pricing:
Pricing for GhostPractice starts at $49/user/month.
Pros
- Integrated billing and accounting tools
- Rich set of features for case and time management
- Good integration with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with billing systems
- Starting price is higher than some competitors
- Limited customization options
6. Litera - Best for drafting professional legal documents in Microsoft Word
Litera is a document drafting software that directly integrates with Microsoft Word. It enhances the document creation process, making it an excellent tool for legal professionals who spend substantial time drafting and editing complex legal documents in Word.
Why I Picked Litera:
In my assessment, Litera shone brightly for its seamless integration with Microsoft Word, a program most legal professionals are well-acquainted with. Its ability to facilitate easier drafting and editing of documents made it an exceptional choice. I decided on Litera as it's best for creating professional legal documents directly within Word, making it a familiar and efficient tool for most legal work.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of Litera include advanced document comparison, clause libraries, and error checking. It also offers an intuitive user interface that operates within Word. The software integrates well with other Microsoft applications, such as PowerPoint and Excel, further extending its usability and convenience.
Pricing:
Pricing for Litera is upon request, as the company provides customized solutions based on individual requirements.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Microsoft Word
- Advanced document comparison and error checking tools
- Clause libraries for efficient document drafting
Cons
- Pricing is not readily available
- Might be excessive for smaller law practices with simpler needs
- Dependency on Microsoft Office suite
7. MyCase - Best for integrating document automation in case management
MyCase is a comprehensive legal practice management software that centralizes various aspects of law practice into one platform, including case management, billing, and client communication. Its integrated document automation makes it an ideal tool for legal professionals aiming for efficiency and consistency in their document preparation process.
Why I Picked MyCase:
I selected MyCase for its effective integration of document automation with case management. This integration aids in achieving a high level of efficiency and reducing errors in document preparation. I deemed MyCase "best for" this feature because it reduces the time spent on repetitive tasks, allowing legal professionals to focus on case analysis and strategy.
Standout Features & Integrations:
MyCase comes with a robust set of features, including integrated billing, time tracking, and calendaring. Its document automation feature stands out, allowing for the creation of multiple document templates that can be auto-populated with case information. It integrates with tools such as QuickBooks and Dropbox, offering additional convenience and functionality.
Pricing:
Pricing for MyCase starts from $49/user/month (billed annually).
Pros
- Integrated document automation with case management
- Integrations with QuickBooks and Dropbox for added functionality
- Comprehensive suite of features including billing and time tracking
Cons
- May be expensive for solo practitioners or small firms
- Dependency on internet connection as it's a cloud-based tool
- Learning curve for non-tech savvy users
8. Appara - Best for utilizing AI in transforming legal document drafting
Appara is an AI-driven legal technology that streamlines the process of document drafting. Utilizing artificial intelligence, Appara enhances the efficiency of drafting complex legal documents, making it the optimal choice for those seeking to leverage modern technology in their legal work.
Why I Picked Appara:
I chose Appara for its unique ability to leverage artificial intelligence in the process of drafting legal documents. This standout feature accelerates the drafting process and minimizes the risk of human errors. I believe Appara is "best for" this purpose as it provides the right balance of technological sophistication and a user-friendly interface that can drastically improve productivity in any law practice.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Appara’s AI capabilities are at the core of its features. It has an intelligent document assembly system that assists in drafting comprehensive legal documents efficiently. Moreover, it provides a clause library feature that can be tailored to meet specific drafting needs. As for integrations, Appara can work seamlessly with commonly used office tools, increasing its overall utility.
Pricing:
Pricing for Appara starts from $30/user/month (billed annually).
Pros
- AI-driven drafting system that enhances efficiency
- Tailorable clause library feature
- Integrates well with commonly used office tools
Cons
- Relatively high price point
- Limited effectiveness for less structured or more creative legal tasks
- Dependence on the quality of user input for best results
9. Disco - Best for e-discovery with robust AI and cloud technology
Disco is a cutting-edge e-discovery tool that brings the power of AI and cloud computing to your legal processes. It simplifies the identification, collection, and production of relevant data for legal matters, which aligns perfectly with its title as the best for e-discovery with robust AI and cloud technology.
Why I Picked Disco:
Disco stood out to me due to its powerful AI-driven e-discovery features and secure cloud-based operation. This combination sets Disco apart from other tools and optimizes the processes involved in e-discovery. In my judgment, Disco is the "best for" AI-enhanced e-discovery, as it caters to this requirement in a secure and efficient way.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Disco's AI capabilities are employed to drive the efficiency of the e-discovery process, reducing the time taken to identify and categorize relevant documents. The tool's cloud-based nature ensures a secure, scalable, and accessible platform for law firms. As for integrations, Disco seamlessly interfaces with other common legal software and cloud storage solutions, further enhancing its versatility.
Pricing:
Pricing for Disco is available upon request.
Pros
- Robust AI features that drive efficiency
- Secure and scalable cloud-based operation
- Integration with other legal software and cloud storage solutions
Cons
- Pricing information is not readily available
- The learning curve for utilizing all the features effectively
- Potential over-reliance on AI which might require manual review for accuracy
10. Drafting Assistant by Thomson Reuters - Best for leveraging legal research while drafting documents
Drafting Assistant is a tool by Thomson Reuters that incorporates legal research into the document drafting process. By enabling seamless integration of research and drafting, it lives up to its title as the best for leveraging legal research while drafting documents.
Why I Picked Drafting Assistant by Thomson Reuters:
I chose Drafting Assistant because of its innovative approach to integrating legal research with the drafting process. It makes it different and adds a new dimension to document preparation. Considering these unique traits, I determined that Drafting Assistant is best for leveraging legal research while drafting documents.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Drafting Assistant comes with features that check citations, format documents, and even provide context-specific legal information. Its integration with Westlaw, another Thomson Reuters product, allows users to access a comprehensive legal research database right from within the drafting tool.
Pricing:
The pricing for Drafting Assistant starts from $20/user/month (billed annually).
Pros
- Seamless integration of legal research and drafting
- Comprehensive citation and formatting tools
- Integration with Westlaw for broad legal research
Cons
- The price might be high for smaller firms
- Requires annual commitment for best pricing
- A slight learning curve to fully utilize all features
11. SmartAdvocate - Best for comprehensive case management software designed for injury law firms
SmartAdvocate is a comprehensive case management software designed with a specific focus on injury law firms. This specialization means it's perfectly tailored to handle the unique requirements and demands of injury law, making it best suited for these firms.
Why I Picked SmartAdvocate:
I selected SmartAdvocate for its depth of features specifically aimed at injury law firms. Its customization and in-depth functionality make it stand out from generic case management software. This specialization is why I've judged it as the best comprehensive case management software designed for injury law firms.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Some of the key features of SmartAdvocate include document automation, case cost tracking, and advanced calendaring. Moreover, it integrates smoothly with legal billing software and other productivity tools, making it easier for users to manage their operations without having to switch between different platforms.
Pricing:
Pricing for SmartAdvocate begins at $79/user/month (billed annually).
Pros
- Tailored specifically for injury law firms
- Advanced feature set including document automation and case cost tracking
- Seamless integrations with other legal and productivity software
Cons
- May not be as suitable for non-injury law firms
- Higher cost compared to more general case management software
- Annual billing could pose a barrier for smaller firms
12. Westlaw Edge - Best for data-driven legal research to drive better decision-making
Westlaw Edge is a comprehensive legal research platform that utilizes data analysis to aid in making better-informed decisions. It leverages AI to sift through extensive legal databases, making it the best tool for data-driven legal research.
Why I Picked Westlaw Edge:
I picked Westlaw Edge because it sets itself apart with its emphasis on data analytics, which can transform the way legal professionals conduct research. In my opinion, its use of AI to optimize legal research efforts gives it an edge, making it the best tool for data-driven legal research.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Westlaw Edge includes features such as litigation analytics and Statutes Compare, which shows the evolution of laws over time. It integrates well with legal practice management software like Clio, allowing for a more cohesive workflow between research and case management.
Pricing:
Pricing for Westlaw Edge is available upon request as it offers a bespoke pricing structure based on user needs.
Pros
- Uses data analytics to facilitate more accurate decision-making
- Incorporates AI for optimal legal research
- Seamless integration with popular case management software
Cons
- Pricing is not transparent and can vary greatly based on user needs
- May have features that are not necessary for smaller firms
- Can be complex to learn due to its extensive feature set
Other Legal Writing Software
Below is a list of additional legal writing software I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Kofax Copitrak - Good for cost recovery and expense management
- DiliTrust - Good for board meetings and corporate governance management
- LollyLaw - Good for immigration law case management
- LawDepot - Good for creating personalized legal documents
- Loio - Good for enhancing legal document editing
- Lexis Advance - Good for comprehensive legal research
- ContractPodAi - Good for AI-driven contract lifecycle management
- Casetext - Good for leveraging AI in legal research and litigation
- Case Notebook by Thomson Reuters - Good for digital case management
- BriefCatch - Good for improving legal writing with AI insights
Selection Criteria for Legal Writing Software
In my journey to find the most beneficial legal tech tools, I've tested numerous applications, examining how they stack up against each other in various categories. It's important to remember that not every tool will be a perfect fit for every user, so I aimed to highlight those with the most potential across various use cases.
Core Functionality
When evaluating legal tech tools, there are several core functionalities I expect these applications to deliver:
- Legal Research: The tool should provide access to a comprehensive database of legal resources, including case law, legal news, legal forms, and more.
- Document Management: The tool should offer the ability to store, organize, and easily retrieve legal documents.
- Task Management: The tool should help track tasks, deadlines, and milestones in cases.
- Collaboration and Communication: The tool should facilitate collaboration between team members and simplify communication with clients.
Key Features
There are certain key features that set apart top-notch legal tech tools from their competition:
- AI-Powered Functionality: AI can drastically increase efficiency, from automating simple tasks to providing insights and suggestions.
- Integration Capabilities: The best legal tech tools can easily integrate with other popular software like email clients, calendar apps, and accounting systems.
- Security Measures: Given the sensitive nature of legal work, high-end security features such as encryption, two-factor authentication, and compliance with data protection regulations are crucial.
- Customizable Workflow: Every law firm operates differently, so customization options for workflows can be invaluable.
Usability
Usability is a paramount factor in legal tech tools. Key considerations here include:
- Intuitive Interface: Legal tech tools should have clear, user-friendly interfaces that don't require a steep learning curve.
- Easy Onboarding Process: The tools should offer comprehensive onboarding resources, such as tutorials, demos, and support, to assist new users.
- Responsive Customer Support: Quick, efficient customer support can be a lifeline when dealing with technical issues or complex features.
- Role-Based Access: The software should allow for role-based access to help manage who can view or modify certain information.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using legal writing software?
Legal writing software offers numerous advantages to its users:
- Efficiency: These tools streamline and automate the drafting and reviewing process, saving considerable time.
- Accuracy: They can help reduce human error in documents, enhancing the precision and consistency of the content.
- Collaboration: Many tools enable real-time collaboration, allowing team members to work together seamlessly.
- Research: Some software offers integrated research capabilities, providing access to extensive legal databases.
- Organization: With features for document and task management, these tools help maintain order in workflows.
How much do these tools typically cost?
The cost of legal writing software varies greatly, depending on the features offered and the scale of the intended usage. Some basic tools can be as low as $10 per user per month, while others with advanced features can cost several hundred dollars per user per month.
What are the typical pricing models for legal writing software?
Legal writing software typically operates on a subscription-based pricing model. This could be charged monthly or annually. Other pricing factors may include the number of users or clients, the volume of data being managed, or the specific features and modules included in the package.
What's the typical range of pricing for legal writing software?
Generally, legal writing software starts at around $10 per user per month for basic functionalities. For premium features and integrations, prices can go up to several hundred dollars per user per month.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive legal writing software?
The cheapest software often includes only basic functionalities and might start at around $10 per user per month, such as Google Docs with its collaboration features. The most expensive ones, like Westlaw or LexisNexis, can cost several hundred dollars per user per month, offering advanced features like AI-powered legal research.
Are there any free options for legal writing software?
Yes, there are free options available, but they often come with limitations. For instance, Google Docs offers basic document creation and collaboration features for free. However, specialized legal writing and research functionalities are usually part of premium, paid tools.
More Legal Writing Software Reviews
Summary
In summary, choosing the right legal writing software requires careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances. Whether it's drafting and editing documents, conducting thorough legal research, or facilitating effective collaboration, the right tool can provide significant efficiency and accuracy benefits.
Key Takeaway 1:
Understand Your Needs: Before diving into the vast pool of legal writing software, first define your specific needs. This includes core functionalities, key features, and the type of user interface that will be most beneficial to your workflow.
Key Takeaway 2:
Consider Pricing Models and Budget: Legal writing software comes in a wide range of pricing models. Always look for a tool that fits your budget without compromising on the critical features you need. Remember to consider factors such as number of users, volume of data, and specific features when looking at pricing.
Key Takeaway 3:
Test Before You Commit: Most software providers offer trial versions of their products. Make use of these trials to test whether the tool fits your requirements and is user-friendly. This hands-on experience is invaluable in making your final decision.
What Do You Think?
I’ve tried to compile a comprehensive list of the best legal writing software tools available, but the technology landscape is vast and ever-changing. If there's a tool that you find invaluable in your legal writing process, and it's not on my list, I'd love to hear about it.
Please be sure to share your recommendations and experiences in the comments below. I am always looking for new tools to evaluate and possibly include in future updates.