Last Reviewed: November 29th, 2024

Best Legal Calendaring and Docketing Software Of 2024

What is Legal Calendaring and Docketing Software?

Legal Calendaring and Docketing Software is a specialized tool for managing court dates, deadlines, and legal workflows. It tackles problems such as missed deadlines, scheduling conflicts and disorganized case information, that can lead to significant legal malpractice risks. Importance lies in its ability to enhance organization, improve workflow efficiency, and ensure deadline compliance. Key features often include shared access, reminders, conflict checking, court rule integration, and secure cloud storage. Emerging features point to greater integration with other systems and the use of AI for smarter scheduling. The main beneficiaries are law firms, solo practitioners, and legal departments in corporations. However, challenges include the need for substantial user training, potential system compatibility issues, and costs. To summarize, Legal Calendaring and Docketing Software serves as a critical organizational backbone for the legal field, enhancing compliance, efficiency, accessibility, and collaborative efforts.

What Are The Key Benefits of Legal Calendaring and Docketing Software?

  • Enhances deadline compliance
  • Improves workflow efficiency
  • Offers shared scheduling access
  • Ensures conflict checking
  • Provides automated reminders
  • Integrates with court rules
  • Establishes secure information storage
  • Supports system integration
  • Boosts collaborative efforts
  • Reduces malpractice risks
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Overall

Based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub for 103 solutions, we determined the following solutions are the best Legal Calendaring and Docketing Software overall:

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Why We Picked MyCase

MyCase has attracted a loyal following within the legal community, with many users praising its intuitive interface and comprehensive features. The platform's ease of use is a recurring theme in reviews, making it accessible even for those with limited technical expertise. Users appreciate the ability to efficiently manage cases, track time, and communicate with clients all within a single platform. MyCase's billing and invoicing tools also receive positive feedback, streamlining the often cumbersome process of generating invoices and collecting payments. Compared to competitors like Clio and PracticePanther, MyCase is often lauded for its affordability and user-friendly design, making it a popular choice for solo practitioners and small law firms. However, some users note that MyCase's reporting capabilities may not be as robust as those offered by some competitors, and integrations with third-party applications could be more extensive. Despite these limitations, MyCase's core functionality, affordability, and ease of use make it a compelling option for legal professionals seeking a reliable and efficient practice management solution.

Pros & Cons

  • Client Communication: MyCase offers a secure client portal that facilitates easy document sharing, messaging, and appointment scheduling, streamlining communication and collaboration.
  • Case Management: The platform provides tools for organizing case files, tracking deadlines, and managing tasks, ensuring that legal professionals stay on top of their workload.
  • Billing and Invoicing: MyCase simplifies the billing process with features like time tracking, expense recording, and online payment processing, making it easier for lawyers to get paid promptly.
  • Mobile App: The MyCase mobile app allows attorneys to access case information, communicate with clients, and manage tasks on the go, providing flexibility and convenience.
  • Limited Customization: MyCase offers limited options for tailoring workflows or interfaces to specific firm needs, which can be frustrating for users with unique processes.
  • Billing Challenges: Some users report difficulties with generating invoices, particularly batch billing, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in client billing.
  • Mobile App Functionality: The mobile app's features and functionality lag behind the desktop version, limiting its usefulness for lawyers on the go.
  • Integrations: MyCase's integrations with other software can be limited, requiring workarounds or manual data entry to connect with essential tools.

Key Features

  • Case Management: Consolidate case-related documents into one location, track ongoing cases and manage obligations through the legal calendar. Leverage automated workflows to carry out repetitive tasks and standard procedures. 
    • Documentation: Store an unlimited number of documents in customizable folders. Pre-fill document templates with case information. Encourage collaboration on documents across multiple teams, track version history and access legal documents globally from any mobile device. Upload, download and print documents in bulk. 
    • Legal Calendar: Create calendar entries and link them to associated cases. Share important events with clients and team members. Color code entries and sort by status or cases. Access a personal calendar and a centralized calendar for firm-wide updates on meetings, deadlines and appointments. Automatically get notifications on important events, touchpoints and Statute of Limitation deadlines. 
    • Status Reports: Get real-time insights into case history, progress and status via the dashboard. Track the firm’s productivity with built-in reports. Supported reporting metrics include cases by stage, average duration spent in each case and cases closed over time. 
    • Automated Workflows: Implement code-free automation to prepare workflows for standard processes. Automatically set case milestones, assign tasks and create forms. Get alerts for important dates, trial hearings and deadlines. 
  • Integrations: Integrate with Microsoft Outlook for real-time document synchronization, collaborative editing, offline editing and browser-based editing. Other integrations include Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar, QuickBook and Mailchimp. 
  • Security: Encrypt case files and messages with 128-bit SSL encryption while in transit and with 256-bit AES encryption at rest. Regularly back up the firm’s data. Validate data integrity after every update and eliminate redundancies. Physical access to servers is controlled via security escorts and two-factor authentication. 
  • Electronic Signatures: Send encrypted documents to clients for their signatures. Supports multiple signers and countersigners and complies with the ESIGN act. Use the eSignature dashboard to track pending signatures. 
  • Billing: Manage the entire billing cycle from invoicing and time tracking to payments and accounting. 
    • Legal Invoicing: Create legal invoices directly from time entries. Generate UTBMS codes for billable tasks and implement LEDES billing. Prepare invoices in bulk and share them with clients via the client portal, emails or traditional paper. Sort invoices by payment status and get automated notifications for overdue and outstanding payments. Automatically notify clients regarding outstanding invoices. 
    • Revenue Reporting: Run built-in reports on aging invoices and accounts receivable. Run reports on the firm’s financial health. Compare the amount billed to revenue collected to prepare a case revenue report. Measure performance against business goals and take corrective action if necessary.  
    • Time Tracking: Track billable hours with multiple timers or add entries after completing the task. The Smart Time Finder tool identifies billable actions without time entries. Leverage billable and non-billable expense tracking and embedded activity timers to maximize billing proficiency. Track time on the go from mobile devices and automatically link entries to associated cases. 
  • Payments: Offer clients multiple secure payment options, including in-person, over the phone, and online via credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX) or eCheck (ACH). Process eChecks for free and automatically update invoice status and trust accounts for payment reconciliation. Set up tailored payment plans and automated monthly reminders for clients. 
    • Accounting: Seamlessly manage multiple trust and operating accounts. Deduct credit card fees only from operating accounts, maintain detailed logs of every transaction and organize payment history by date range or case.  
  • Lead Management: Use the Lead Status Board extension to manage the entire lead lifecycle from prospect to client. Break down lead acquisition into multiple stages and assign staff tasks for every step. The analytics dashboard gives complete visibility into successful referrals, touchpoint history and conversion rate. Process leads faster with customizable intake forms and eSignature support. 
  • Client Experience: Provide clients with a secure, two-way channel for sharing messages, documents and events via the client portal. Automatically record all correspondence for future reference. Directly share invoice links for simple, secure and direct online payment. 
  • Website: Design a custom, mobile-friendly website with preconfigured search engine optimization, Google Analytics integration and 99% uptime. Upload a custom business logo. Embed client intake forms and client portal connections directly into the website. 
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Why We Picked Clio

Clio offers practice management capabilities, along with data and task management modules. According to reviews, its primary functions like time tracking, billing and matter management meet modern legal requirements. It’s scalable, secure and easy to use, with a responsive support team to back it up.
However, reviewers noted that integrations are buggy and loading time is slow. While the features make it worthwhile, many users feel that the cost could be lower. Overall, Clio is an excellent package if you don’t mind paying a bit more and dealing with extended load times.

Pros & Cons

  • Ease of Use: All the users who reviewed this aspect found the UI intuitive and easy to pick up.
  • Functionality: According to 73% of users reviewing capabilities, basic functions such as time tracking, accounting and document management perform satisfactorily.
  • Service and Support: 83% of users who mentioned this element said they’re satisfied with the customer support and response rates.
  • Task Management: Regarding this feature, 71% of users said the softwaremade task management easier.
  • Integrations: Integration options are limited and plagued with bugs, according to 60% of users mentioning this aspect.
  • Speed and Performance: According to 100% of users who reviewed this element, loading speed is slow, negatively affecting performance.
  • Reporting: 56% of users who reviewed this feature found that reports lack customizability.
  • Training: 80% of users found the training resources to be insufficient.
  • Cost: According to 80% of users who reviewed this aspect, the software cost is higher than its competitors.

Key Features

  • Client Management: Increase operational efficiency by automating standard firm procedures throughout the client lifecycle. Improve the customer experience by encouraging client collaborations in case operations. 
    • Client Intake Management: Automate logging and synchronization of client intake data, case management tasks and calendar information under one scheduling environment. Track potential client information and open new matters seamlessly with Quick Intake. 
    • Client Tracking: Never miss a single task or appointment with checklists, automated reminders and cross-platform sharing of client information and documentation. Follow up on potential clients and collect matter details with 24/7 secure access to cases, scheduling, contacts through Online Intake Forms and the Matter Pipeline. 
    • Client Services: Increase client engagement with automated follow-up emails and reminders. Offer flexible payment options including online credit cards. 
  • Security: Secure your data from potential external and internal vulnerabilities with a dedicated cybersecurity portal. Enforce administrative, physical and technical controls like 2FA, criminal background checks, security training and more to protect against future liabilities. 
    • Compliance: Ensure GDPR compliance both as a data controller and processor. Get payments processed 39% faster with credit cards while operating in compliance with PCI guidelines. 
    • Data Encryption: Store and transmit data securely with HTTPS and TLS-based in-transit and at-rest encryption. The secure web interface is verified by DigiCert. 
    • Control Implementation: Control access to sensitive information with role-based permissions, login safeguards and session/activity tracking via IP information. Increase safety standards with strong passwords, regular password resets and two-factor authentication via the mobile app. 
  • Firm Insights: Thoroughly understand the firm’s strengths and weaknesses with in-depth reporting on the most valuable referral sources, clients, and matter types. Compare actual matter totals to estimated ones and track billed, unbilled and collected amounts. 
  • Case Management: Track and manage case-related documents, bills, time and client contact information from anywhere. Integrate pre-existing case information from over 200 applications including Dropbox, Outlook and Google Workspace. 
  • Document Management: Remotely store and access an unlimited number of legal documents, images, audio and video files. Backup documents automatically, filter and sort using customized categories, search using keywords and send documents for signature through the e-Signature portal. 
  • Billing Management: Create, approve and send bills electronically and process interest for late payments with the Clio Connect portal. Offer automated, flexible and faster payment plans with integrated credit card processing via the Clio Payments extension. 
  • Contact Management: Track the firm’s clients and contacts with quick overviews of their connected matters, documents, transactions and bills. Trace their interactions with the firm, identify conflict of interests, if any, and log case-specific information in custom data fields. 
  • Accounting: Create trust and operating accounts and produce invoices in compliance with legal industry regulations. Use the client ledger portal to monitor all accounts and transactions associated with a client and perform 3-way reconciliations either manually or with the help of third-party extensions. 
  • Calendar Management: Stay on top of deadlines and important dates by synchronizing calendars with cases. Create custom entries to log more billable hours, share important events and dates with clients and keep track of firm-wide events, meetings and appointments. 
  • Task Management: Keep track of pending tasks on legal cases, assign tasks to other members and set as many customized task categories as required using the Advanced Tasks portal. Get notifications about overdue tasks, organized by due date, in the main dashboard. 
  • Time and Expense Tracking: Keep a record of time spent working by seamlessly adding entries from calendar events, tasks, communication logs, notes, documents, Outlook and Gmail. Track time and expenses in real time even when on the go using the mobile application. 
  • Performance Management: Get detailed reports on the utilization of the firm’s time with insights on how to streamline workflows and reallocate resources for better productivity. Identify unbilled hours and write-offs to prevent further incidents. 
  • Legal Client App: Clients can use the mobile app to receive push notifications, status updates and case details, contact their lawyer and scan and upload documents. Case lawyers provide sign up links via email for secure login with Face ID or Touch ID verification. 
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Why We Picked Quickbase

Quickbase is a user-friendly platform suited to help businesses optimize project management with custom applications, workflow automation and data-driven insights. Its no-code structure and intuitive interfaces to develop applications and reports quickly, even with minimal coding experience, are often mentioned by users.

Users can centralize data from multiple sources and access advanced data insights on key project metrics to improve decision-making, save time and optimize resource allocation. Extensive customization options are another reviewer favorite, enabling users to build solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Integration with third-party applications adds to Quickbase's appeal by enhancing productivity and streamlining operations. Additionally, reviewers consistently highlight the abundance of training resources and documentation available, including guides, video courses and a supportive user community.

Despite high customization and ease-of-use, reviewers note a learning curve to optimize adoption and performance. Quickbase’s “reads”-based cost structures are also a barrier for smaller businesses with limited budgets.

Overall, Quickbase is an excellent option for businesses who require extensive customization to optimize their project management, offering ease-of-use with data accessibility and custom apps for task management.

Pros & Cons

  • Ease of Use: Use a no- or low-code structure to easily input and access data. Speed up application development and report creation with easy navigation and intuitive interfaces.
  • Workflow Automation: Streamline processes and task management using workflow emails, notifications and live data views through charts and graphs.
  • Customization: Build customized applications for unique business processes using AI, pre-built templates and no code software. Access custom portals for teams and clients, define personalized user roles and permissions and utilize dynamic dashboards.
  • Data Accessibility and Data Analysis: Eliminate date silos by consolidating information from multiple sources into a centralized view. Generate custom reports to visualize data intuitively, track key metrics, and identify trends and patterns.
  • Integration: Enhance productivity and streamline operations by integrating with third-party applications and using API access to build custom extensions.
  • Training Resources and Documentation: Access training resources and documentation in the form of guides, video courses, certifications, online help and a strong user community to help users learn the intricacies of the solution.
  • Learning Curve: New users may face a steep learning curve and adoption can be challenging for those unfamiliar with programming principles.
  • Cost: The pricing can be a barrier for some organizations, especially smaller ones or those with limited budgets.

Key Features

  • No-Code Builder: Create custom project management applications with minimal coding experience. Use AI, drag-and-drop tools and pre-built templates to design custom applications for your team's needs and workflows.
  • Integrations: Use pre-built integration channels to unify existing business systems, data sources and workflows with third-party tools. Eliminate manual data entry and ensure all project information is centralized and up-to-date using APIs to develop custom extensions.
  • Automated Workflows: Use automation features to streamline repetitive tasks and processes within your projects. Set up automated triggers and actions based on specific events, such as sending notifications when a task is completed or automatically generating reports when deadlines approach.
  • Dashboards: Use interactive dashboards to gain a real-time, centralized view of all your projects. View key project metrics, resource allocation, task statuses and overall progress to identify potential issues early on and make informed decisions to keep projects on track. Filter, group, modify and search dashboards to improve project analysis. Design highly personalized, role-based dashboards with simple drag-and-drop functionality.
  • Mobile Apps: Build and access mobile-ready applications, monitor projects securely and remotely, and view mobile dashboards.
  • Customizable Reporting: Create custom reports and dynamic dashboards tailored to your specific needs. Analyze project performance, identify trends and make data-driven decisions by intuitively visualizing project data using charts, graphs and tables.
  • Role-Based Security: Improve data security and access control with role-based permission to ensure only authorized personnel can view or modify sensitive project information. Define user roles and assign specific access levels to different team members based on their needs.
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Why We Picked Needles

Needles provides all the functions expected of a modern legal practice management solution, including matter and document management, mobile time tracking, reporting and task supervision. It offers an efficient task management module, but it’s important to note that some users experienced difficulty editing entries in the legal calendar.
According to reviews, the platform is difficult to learn, but the product training and support team are helpful in getting past the initial hurdle. Finally, the intuitive UI and exhaustive features make it a capable contender, but only for companies with a budget to justify the extra cost.

Pros & Cons

  • Functionality: Its time-tracking, billing and accounting functionalities meet the modern-day requirements of the legal industry, according to 65% of users mentioning this element.
  • Ease of Use: According to 69% of users who reviewed this aspect, the platform is intuitive and easy to use.
  • Reporting: 67% of users who reviewed this feature said that it provides plenty of customizable options.
  • Task Management: Regarding this feature, 75% of users found it helpful to track tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Training: 75% of users who reviewed this element said they’re satisfied with the knowledge base and training resources.
  • Integrations: It provides limited integration options, according to 60% of users mentioning this aspect.
  • Speed and Performance: According to 100% of reviews about this feature, the platform’s performance sometimes suffers under heavy workloads.
  • Cost: All the users who mentioned this element said it’s more expensive than its competitors.

Key Features

  • Task Management: Stay on top of pending tasks, deadlines and important events with fully configurable workflows, synchronized Outlook calendars and automated daily checklists. Receive and broadcast important updates with firm-wide scheduling and communication portals. 
  • Document Management: Encourage employees to collaborate on and share documents, globally in real time. Identify documents using keywords, prepare files for e-Signatures and choose customizable rich templates from industry-specific case libraries. 
  • Firm Insights: Leverage real-time reporting and analytics on business health. Use the configurable dashboard to create custom reports, data and metrics, monitor business processes and identify valuable assets. 
  • Data Management and Security: Secure your data with centralized data storage that eliminates redundancies and automatically backs up all documentation. Organize and store files with the PDF Template Wizard and import data in bulk via CSV files. 
  • Time and Expense Tracking: Track time effortlessly with the help of the Outlook add-in for any device, including mobile devices. Log expenses in real time, eliminate errors and omissions and automate internal audit logs. 
  • Client Management: Improve customer satisfaction via the self-service portal with over 99% uptime. Address client inquiries, process reimbursements and payments and update case details seamlessly. 
  • API: Implement low-code integration of third-party extensions or create new integrations entirely using the API-based architecture. Directly integrate with Microsoft Office 365, OneDrive, QuickBooks, DocuSign and Lexitas. 
  • Security: Secure data, documentation and digital access with Microsoft Azure. Get 24/7 security from cyber attacks and ensure business continuity with biometrically-secured physical data centers, remote-hosted servers and advanced data encryption. 
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Why We Picked SmartVault

Is SmartVault truly a smart vault for your documents, or does it miss the mark? User reviews from the past year paint a mixed picture of this document management software. While many appreciate its ease of use and robust security features, some have expressed concerns about customer service, pricing, and occasional glitches.

SmartVault shines in its user-friendliness and security. Users highlight the intuitive interface, making it simple to upload, organize, and share files. The integration with popular tools like Outlook streamlines workflows, allowing users to easily share documents via email. The robust security features provide peace of mind, especially for businesses handling sensitive client information. One user praised SmartVault's ability to securely store and share tax documents with clients, eliminating the need for physical storage and enhancing data protection.

However, SmartVault's customer service has been a recurring complaint. Users have reported slow response times, unhelpful representatives, and unfulfilled promises of call-backs. Technical issues, while not widespread, have also been reported, with some users experiencing glitches and syncing problems. These issues, coupled with concerns about price increases, have led some users to explore alternative solutions. For instance, one user, frustrated with ongoing technical issues and unhelpful customer service, ultimately decided to switch to a competitor after experiencing significant disruptions to their workflow.

Overall, SmartVault is a good choice for businesses seeking a user-friendly and secure document management solution, particularly those already familiar with cloud-based software. However, those requiring responsive customer support or seeking advanced features might find SmartVault lacking. Thoroughly evaluating your specific needs and priorities is crucial before committing to SmartVault.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Use: SmartVault is known for its user-friendly interface, allowing users to easily add client folders, share subfolders, and locate documents using filters.
  • Robust Integrations: The software integrates seamlessly with popular business applications like QuickBooks and Microsoft Outlook, streamlining workflows.
  • Strong Security: SmartVault prioritizes document security with features like AES-256 encryption, giving users peace of mind when handling sensitive information.
  • Client Collaboration: The platform facilitates easy and secure file sharing with clients through its branded client portal.
  • Customer Service: Users have reported experiencing difficulties with SmartVault's customer service.
  • Pricing: Some users have expressed concerns about the pricing structure of SmartVault.
  • Occasional Glitches: Users have occasionally encountered technical issues or glitches while using the software.

Key Features

  • Secure Document Storage: SmartVault provides a cloud-based storage solution with bank-level encryption, ensuring your documents are safe from unauthorized access.
  • Integrated Workflow: Seamlessly integrates with popular software like QuickBooks and Xero, allowing for streamlined document management within your existing workflows.
  • Customizable Permissions: Offers granular control over who can view, edit, or share documents, enabling tailored access for different team members or clients.
  • Version Control: Automatically tracks changes and maintains a history of document versions, so you can easily revert to previous iterations if needed.
  • Client Portal: Provides a secure, branded portal for clients to upload and download documents, enhancing client communication and collaboration.
  • Mobile Access: Access your documents on-the-go with SmartVault's mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
  • Document Scanning: Includes a built-in scanning feature that allows you to digitize paper documents directly into your SmartVault account.
  • Audit Trails: Keeps detailed logs of all document interactions, providing transparency and accountability for compliance and auditing purposes.
  • Template Management: Create and manage document templates to standardize forms and processes across your organization.
  • Advanced Search Functionality: Quickly locate documents using robust search tools that filter by metadata, tags, or content.
  • Email Integration: Directly save email attachments to SmartVault, reducing the need for manual uploads and ensuring important documents are stored securely.
  • Automated Workflows: Set up automated processes for document approval and routing, increasing efficiency and reducing manual intervention.
  • Compliance Support: Features designed to help meet industry-specific compliance requirements, such as HIPAA for healthcare or FINRA for financial services.
  • Custom Branding: Personalize the SmartVault interface with your company’s logo and colors to maintain brand consistency.
  • Collaboration Tools: Facilitate teamwork with features like shared folders and real-time document editing.
  • Notifications and Alerts: Stay informed with customizable alerts for document uploads, changes, or access requests.
  • Multi-Factor Authentication: Enhance security with an additional layer of protection beyond just passwords.
  • API Access: Offers API capabilities for developers to create custom integrations and extend SmartVault’s functionality.
  • Data Backup and Recovery: Regularly backs up your data and provides recovery options to protect against data loss.
  • Scalable Storage Options: Accommodates growing storage needs with flexible plans that can scale with your business.
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Key Features

  • Activity Dashboard
  • Billing & Invoicing
  • Calendar Management
  • Client Portal
  • Conflict Management
  • Contract/License Management
  • CRM
  • Customizable Forms
  • Customizable Templates
  • Document Management
  • Email Management
  • Forms Management
  • Legal Case Management
  • Task Management
  • Time Tracking
  • Trust Accounting
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Why We Picked Filevine

Filevine is a versatile legal practice management solution that helps streamline various operations, from client management and document organization to time tracking, invoicing, and payment processing. Its integrated payment processor facilitates client payments through credit cards or ACH, providing a convenient option for law firms.

One of Filevine's standout features is its robust reporting capabilities, enhanced by built-in AI. Law firms can generate detailed reports to track revenue, performance, lead conversion, hiring, caseloads and staff performance. AI-powered analytics provide valuable insights into team dynamics, caseload trends and overall firm health. By identifying top performers and areas for improvement, firms can optimize their operations and enhance efficiency.

Filevine's AI also offers generative capabilities. The platform can summarize client applications and interactions, analyze lead sources to inform marketing strategies, and even generate demand letters and scan documents for insights. Additionally, it can automate immigration application processes and assist in document creation by generating summaries, charts and descriptions based on user prompts.

While Filevine is a powerful tool for many law firms, it has some limitations that may not suit all needs. For example, it currently lacks a dedicated section for subrogation liens in the draft closing tab. Its sorting and filtering options for reminders could be improved. Additionally, the restriction of assigning only one cost/trust account per organization may not align with regulatory requirements for larger firms.

Overall, Filevine is a valuable tool for solo practitioners and mid-sized law firms seeking to streamline their operations and leverage AI-powered insights. However, larger enterprises with more complex needs may find limitations that require careful consideration.

Pros & Cons

  • Customization: Filevine is highly customizable to suit various legal practices and case types.
  • Ease of Use: Most reviewers highlighted the platform’s user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate.
  • Comprehensive Reporting Features: Its robust reporting tools help firms track data, performance and client conversion effectively.
  • Streamlined Client Communication: Features like two-way text messaging, document sharing and email linking simplify client communication while maintaining accountability.
  • Support for Remote Work: Many users praised its accessibility, allowing legal work from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • Easy Integrations: Filevine integrates well with other legal platforms, enhancing its versatility.
  • Customer Support Issues: Several users complained about poor customer service, long response times and challenges during onboarding and implementation.
  • Complex Setup: The initial setup and implementation process can be lengthy, requiring significant internal resources.
  • Glitches and Bugs: Some users experienced software glitches and technical issues, leading to workflow delays.
  • Documentation and Training: Reviewers expressed concerns about the lack of sufficient documentation and the need for more training.

Key Features

  • Case Management: Centrally access all case-related information, documents, notes, tasks and correspondence. Automate standardized procedures, tasks, reminders and deadlines. Use the activity feed to track tasks in real time, communicate with clients and pull up contextual information. Set up roles and permissions to control access and assign responsibilities. 
  • Lead Capture: Create client intake forms tailored to the firm’s needs. Automate follow-up tasks and communications required to convert potential clients. Use the dashboard to display tasks and track lead volume over time, lead sources, revenue by source and conversion rate. 
  • Integrations: Connect with Lead Docket to streamline lead referrals and access its vast library of integrations. Add over 2,000 applications through its API-based architecture. Seamlessly integrate with QuickBooks to synchronize legacy accounts. Other integrations include Google Calendar, Zapier, Office 365, Domo, Vinesign and Slack. 
  • Legal Documentation: Access an end-to-end document management module with unlimited storage and built-in editing and collaboration tools. The DocGen inclusion instantaneously creates custom contracts, retainers, firm reports, demand letters, interrogatories and more. Search for specific documents via custom document hashtags and OCR. Create custom folder structures to store legal documents separately based on practice areas or cases. 
    • Editing: Lock documents for edits. Edit PDFs, combine and insert documents and apply consistent identifiers to multiple sets of documents. 
    • Filevine Fusion: Use granular reporting to create dynamic documents, sophisticated forms, visuals and charts with a single click. Consolidate data from all over the system into a single document ready to download, print and email. Seamlessly fits into the firm’s existing workflows. 
  • Contracts: Leverage automated approval workflows, version control, custom alerts and real-time editing to manage the entire contract lifecycle. Use dynamic templates with conditional logic to create legally binding contracts instantly. Create custom contracts, letters and drafts in bulk with self-service templates. Seamlessly transfer legacy contracts with captured metadata and track legal obligations via dashboard snapshots. 
  • Reporting and Business Analytics: Generate reports on everything from tasks and notes to time entries and calendar events. Schedule automatic delivery of reports when required. Get data-driven insights on top performers, productivity, training opportunities, task completion rates, cumulative actions taken and more. Expand or limit report results by any condition or factor. 
    • Audit Reports: Record every activity registered in the system and store it for 30 days. Get actionable insights into staff productivity and business profitability. 
    • Filevine Periscope: Enable data visualization via the Periscope extension and expand raw datasets. Get recommendations on the best possible combination of workflows and actions for maximum productivity. Identify and standardize efficient workflows and eliminate ineffective habits.
  • Time and Expense Tracking: Track time from anywhere within the platform. Set up custom hourly rates for legal practitioners and define default rates for everyday expenses. Implement custom templates to streamline expense tracking. 
  • Billing: Seamlessly generate invoices and connect payments to the corresponding bills. Send invoices directly from the billing portal via email, fax or postal mail. Create, send and review active invoices via the billing control panel.
  • Guest Access: Configure permissions to provide temporary guest access to co-counsels, clients and others. Securely share important files, documents, updates and information. 
  • E-signature: Allow clients to electronically sign documents via drawing, typing or uploading an image of their signature. Use recyclable templates to add up to four signers per document and create custom fields for dates, initials and signatures. Track document status and get instant alerts about updates. Automatically save signed documents and contracts to associated folders. 
  • Security: Require clients and staff to sign in with a selfie to get past gesture authentication. 
  • Mobile App: Securely access case files and time tracking capabilities on the go with the mobile application. 
  • Legal Calendar: Always stay up to date with deadlines, Statute of Limitations, important events, meetings and client touchpoints. Schedule firm-wide meetings, appointments and tasks with the central calendar. Filter the view to drill down on specific staff and run calendar reports to create actionable tasks. 
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Why We Picked Clio Grow

Will Clio Grow help your law firm grow its client base? Many users say yes. Clio Grow is lauded for its user-friendly interface and seamless integrations, which simplify the often-cumbersome client intake process. For instance, users praise its ability to automate tasks like sending engagement letters and collecting information through online forms, saving them valuable time and reducing errors. This streamlined approach not only enhances efficiency but also allows lawyers to focus on what matters most: their clients. However, some users have pointed out that Clio Grow can be a bit pricey, especially for smaller firms or solo practitioners. Additionally, occasional bugs and feature limitations have been reported, though these appear to be relatively infrequent. Think of it like a well-maintained car: it might have a few minor hiccups now and then, but overall, it gets you where you need to go reliably.

Clio Grow's emphasis on automation and client relationship management makes it stand out from the crowd. Unlike some competitors that focus primarily on case management, Clio Grow prioritizes nurturing leads and converting them into paying clients. This is achieved through features like automated email sequences, appointment scheduling, and personalized communication tools, all designed to enhance the client experience from the very first interaction. This makes it an ideal solution for firms looking to boost their client acquisition efforts and build stronger relationships that translate into long-term success.

In conclusion, Clio Grow is best suited for law firms that place a premium on efficiency, automation, and providing a stellar client experience. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its robust features and user-friendly design make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to streamline their intake process and grow their client base effectively.

Pros & Cons

  • Simplified Intake: Clio Grow makes it easier for legal professionals to manage the often cumbersome client intake process.
  • Lead Management: Users praise the software for its effectiveness in managing leads, enabling them to track and nurture potential clients.
  • Seamless Integrations: Clio Grow receives positive feedback for its ability to integrate with other tools, streamlining workflows for legal professionals.
  • Excellent Support: Users consistently highlight the strong customer support provided by Clio Grow, ensuring they receive assistance when needed.
  • Price: Some users find the pricing structure of Clio Grow to be expensive, especially for smaller law firms or solo practitioners with limited budgets.
  • Learning Curve: New users unfamiliar with legal practice management software may face a learning curve when adapting to Clio Grow's features and interface, potentially requiring additional time for training and adjustment.

Key Features

  • Client Management: Improve customer experience for existing clients and follow up with potential customers via the legal customer relationship management portal. Always keep track of tasks, client requirements and opportunities. 
    • Contact Management: Tag and organize retained clients, professional contacts and potential customers to get an organized overview of their contact and matter details on the dashboard. Encourage potential contacts to show up for consultations with a simplified scheduling process and automated reminders. 
    • Client Services: Choose from a variety of customizable intake forms and create documents instantly. Automatically set up tasks, reminders and personalized multi-step email campaigns to keep clients up-to-date about case proceedings, increase engagement and convert potential leads. 
    • Client Insights: Get detailed reports on client referrals, high-value contacts, conversion rates and profitable practice areas to improve client retention rates and advertise efficiently. 
  • Intake Management: Streamline the intake process with a completely digital client intake portal. Eliminate paper usage, redundant PDF forms and in-person consultations, organize important details about new clients and track their status in real time. 
    • Intake Processing: Create a public intake form, link it to the firm website and share it with clients via email or SMS. Automatically create to-do lists, documents and emails to speed up the intake process. All contact and matter information is automatically categorized in the client relationship management portal. 
    • Lead Tracking: Get status updates and matter overviews of potential clients in the Lead Inbox and Matter Pipeline portals. Identify exactly which prospective clients require a follow-up and when in order to sign retainers. 
    • Intake Tasks: Schedule appointments and follow up on meetings with the Scheduler extension. Check potential contacts against the firm’s records to identify conflicts of interest and repeat clients. 
    • Synchronization: After completion of the intake process, synchronize all documents, notes, events, intake form details, and related contacts with the firm database through the cloud. 
  • E-signature: Automatically prepare documents with integrated e-signature capabilities. Send and approve e-signatures securely in order to speed up business processes and remove bottlenecks. 
  • Document Management: Prepare and send documents and retainers for e-signatures. Clients can even sign the legal documents securely from their phones and tablets without ever having to download, print or mail them. 
  • Task Automation: Stay on top of matter updates, client appointments and pending requests with real-time tracking and alerts. Keep current and prospective clients in the loop with timed-delivery email scheduling, unlimited email templates and automated reminders. 
  • Client Intake Insights: Identify the most successful practice areas, matter types, referral sources and top-performing firm members and clients with advanced reporting and analytics modules. Organize client intake reports and lead sources to improve financial forecasting and eliminate redundancies. 
  • Calendar Management: Optimize schedules to prevent same day, back-to-back and last minute appointments. Book meetings and appointments online with the easy-to-use, calendar extension that automatically sends event reminders and appointment confirmation alerts and provides firm-wide visibility. 
Start Price
$50
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Key Features

  • Case Management: Manage and track all aspects of legal cases, including deadlines, documents and communication in a centralized repository. Easily view and manage case status, filing dates and important milestones. 
    • Customized Case Workflows: Streamline and automate routine tasks like data entry or document generation. 
    • Deadline Tracking: Track case deadlines and set automated reminders to avoid missing critical dates, reducing the risk of missed deadlines and associated penalties. 
  • Document Management: Organize and manage all legal documents related to immigration cases in a single place. Access all relevant case forms, applications, contracts and other important files. 
    • Document Version Control: Track and manage multiple document versions. Team members can collaborate effectively on documents by accessing the latest version. 
    • Document Automation: Create, assemble and distribute legal documents automatically, saving time and increasing efficiency. 
  • Time and Billing: Track billable hours and expenses, create invoices, and manage payments to bill clients accurately. 
    • Invoicing: Generate professional-looking invoices for clients and track payments based on predefined billing rules or time-tracking data. 
    • Trust Accounting: Manage client funds, including deposits, payments and refunds. Track all transactions and generate reports to comply with relevant regulations. 
  • Reporting and Analytics: Create custom reports and dashboards to track case information, financial data and performance metrics. Get a range of reporting options such as ad-hoc, scheduled and automated reporting. Export data in various formats like Excel and PDF. 
    • Financial Analytics: Analyze financial performance and profitability of cases and clients using detailed financial reports that provide insights into billing rates, billable hours, expenses and payments. 
    • Performance Metrics: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify areas for improvement with performance metrics. View metrics such as case cycle time, client satisfaction and employee productivity to optimize legal operations. 
  • Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate with team members and assign tasks with ease. Clients can use a portal to access case information and documents. 
  • Compliance Management: Stay compliant with immigration regulations by providing alerts and reminders for key deadlines, managing compliance documents, and automating compliance checks. 
  • Secure Portal: Upload documents securely and communicate with the legal team. Access up-to-date information about cases and eliminate the need to visit the legal office for updates. 
  • Integrations: Integrate with various third-party apps, such as HR systems, eSignature tools and document management systems, to streamline workflows and simplify data management. 
  • Mobile App: Access and manage cases from anywhere, at any time, on any device. 
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$39
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Why We Picked ServeManager

Can ServeManager serve up a legal software solution that's a cut above the rest? User reviews from the past year suggest a resounding "yes." Customers consistently praise ServeManager for its user-friendly interface, with many claiming it's the easiest to use compared to competitors like Process Server's Toolbox. This ease of use translates to significant time savings, with users reporting an average reduction of 25 minutes per serve, a factor highly valued in the fast-paced legal field.

ServeManager's automation capabilities are another major selling point, streamlining tasks such as document generation and client communication. Users particularly appreciate the software's ability to automatically populate job details across various stages, minimizing manual entry and reducing errors. The integration with QuickBooks is also frequently commended, simplifying billing and payment processes. However, some users express a desire for a standalone mobile app and a wider range of pre-built affidavit templates.

Overall, ServeManager emerges as a top choice for legal professionals, especially process servers, seeking to optimize their workflow and enhance client satisfaction. Its intuitive design, coupled with robust automation and integration features, makes it a powerful tool for managing serves efficiently and effectively. While minor feature requests exist, the overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores ServeManager's value proposition in the legal software market.

Pros & Cons

  • Intuitive Interface: ServeManager is designed with an easy-to-learn interface that allows for quick onboarding of new staff without extensive training or manuals.
  • Increased Efficiency: The software streamlines workflows, automates tasks, and eliminates paperwork, enabling legal professionals to manage more serves in less time.
  • Time Savings: ServeManager's optimized processes and automation features save users an average of 25 minutes per serve, allowing for greater productivity and focus on other critical tasks.
  • Enhanced Client Satisfaction: With features like automated client notifications, online payment processing, and real-time case tracking, ServeManager helps boost client satisfaction by providing transparency and convenience.
  • GPS Tracking and Proof of Service: ServeManager incorporates GPS tracking to record service attempts, providing accurate and verifiable proof of service, which is essential for legal proceedings.
  • Limited Feature Information: User reviews highlight positive features, but lack details about potential limitations or drawbacks in ServeManager's functionality.

Key Features

  • Case Management: Centralize all case details, documents, and notes in one place for easy access and organization.
  • Real-Time Updates: Receive instant notifications and updates on the status of serves, ensuring you are always informed.
  • GPS Tracking: Track the location of process servers in real-time, providing transparency and accountability.
  • Document Upload: Easily upload and store affidavits, photos, and other important documents directly within the platform.
  • Client Portal: Offer clients a dedicated portal to view case progress, download documents, and communicate with your team.
  • Automated Invoicing: Generate and send invoices automatically based on completed serves, streamlining your billing process.
  • Customizable Templates: Use and modify templates for affidavits, invoices, and other documents to fit your specific needs.
  • Mobile App: Access ServeManager on-the-go with a mobile app designed for both iOS and Android devices.
  • Integration Capabilities: Integrate with other legal software and tools, such as Clio and QuickBooks, to enhance workflow efficiency.
  • Secure Communication: Utilize encrypted messaging within the platform to ensure confidential information remains protected.
  • Service Mapping: Visualize service attempts and completions on a map, aiding in strategic planning and resource allocation.
  • Detailed Reporting: Generate comprehensive reports on serve attempts, completions, and other key metrics for performance analysis.
  • Multi-User Access: Allow multiple team members to access and collaborate on cases simultaneously, improving teamwork and productivity.
  • Time Stamping: Automatically record the date and time of each serve attempt, providing an accurate and verifiable timeline.
  • Client Management: Maintain detailed records of client interactions, preferences, and history to enhance client relationships.

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All Legal Calendaring and Docketing Software (103 found)

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Buyer's Guide

Legal Calendaring Software Is All About Managing Deadlines, Tasks and Meetings Effectively

Legal Calendaring and Docketing BG Intro

Legal professionals continuously juggle multiple deadlines, appointments and tasks. It’s easy to lose track of pending obligations amidst all the chaos. Failure to follow deadlines and meetings can have detrimental effects on your firm. For law firms dealing with multiple clients daily, it can lead to loss of clients, malpractice suits and negative publicity.

The simplest solution is to implement a standalone calendaring and docketing software or all-in-one legal software with specialized calendaring capabilities, ensuring you never miss out on critical dates. This buyer’s guide will cover what docketing software is, its benefits and key features to help you find an ideal solution.

Executive Summary

  • Legal calendaring software helps lawyers schedule and track legal proceedings.
  • Regular alerts and notifications automatically remind task owners of pending obligations.
  • A firm-wide calendar makes it easier to schedule and share task responsibilities.
  • The platform can automatically generate dates for court proceedings based on jurisdictional rules.
  • Make sure to ask the right questions internally and to vendors when selecting software.
What This Guide Covers:

What Is Legal Calendaring Software?

Legal calendaring software is a task management tool for legal professionals. This singular source of all docketing and calendaring information simplifies scheduling and tracking deadlines and action items in legal proceedings. Law firms and legal professionals have a lot on their plates, and access to an easy-to-use calendaring system can improve the quality of life for everyone involved.

Traditionally, case file maintenance and management relied heavily on manual processes and physical paperwork. Legal professionals had to manage numerous documents and deadlines, primarily using manual calendars, filing systems and paper-based reminders. It not only consumed significant time and resources but also increased the risk of errors and inefficiencies in legal work.

Legal calendaring systems streamline the process by automating deadline calculation, providing centralized document storage, and enabling efficient tracking and organization of case-related information.

Enterprise-grade software can track all sorts of dockets and obligations, including firm meetings, court deadlines, hearing dates, client meetings, discovery deadlines, eFiling tasks and more. A built-in notification system automatically alerts involved parties of what’s on the horizon and what action items require immediate attention.

You can even integrate email apps to import tasks into the system directly. The purpose is to enable a more organized and systematic task management approach to eliminate accidents and scheduling conflicts.

The Most Popular Legal Calendaring Software

It’s neither possible nor plausible to point at any one legal calendaring system and declare it the best. Every law firm has different requirements and needs a different type of care. That’s why we’ve shortlisted some of the most popular software in this category for your reference.

MyCase

MyCase is a cloud-delivered system that helps streamline legal calendaring and docketing workflows. It connects calendar events to associated legal cases and notifies all relevant clients and team members. You can create separate personal and firm-wide calendars and automatically sync entries. The court rules-based calendaring system lets you identify and highlight court dates, deadlines and statute of limitations.

MyCase

Analyze your lead traffic over a specific period.

The platform can directly integrate with Microsoft Outlook, G Suite, Mailchimp and other mailing systems to import calendar events from emails. Set up custom or color-coded calendar labels to effectively organize calendar views. You can:

  • Increase Billable Hours
  • Optimize Lead Conversion
  • Get a Dedicated Website Service
  • Reduce Time to Market
  • Simplify Collaboration
Product Overview
User Sentiment Score 93%
Company Size S | M
Pricing $$$$

Clio

Clio is comprehensive case management software that can streamline case organization, time tracking, billing, document management and calendaring. It helps onboard new clients faster, reduces invoicing time and easily centralizes daily legal processes.

Ensure a smooth task flow by linking contacts, time entries, calendar events, bills and files to related cases using a centralized dashboard. The platform’s features include billing, accounting, calendaring, task management, online payments, a client portal and more.

Clio

Build easy-to-use client intake forms.

Build custom data fields related to specific practice areas to configure the platform to business needs. You can organize cases according to categories, budgets, payment profiles and billing rates. Create online intake forms using Clio Grow. The system provides:

  • Unlimited Cloud Storage
  • Mobile App
  • Dashboard Tracking
  • Prompt Support
Product Overview
User Sentiment Score 93%
Company Size S | M | L
Pricing $$$

Quickbase

Quickbase is a legal case management tool that helps law firms with database organization, workload management and dynamic reporting. You can easily create, connect and customize enterprise apps with this no-code platform to fix visibility and workflow gaps.

Quickbase

Use a centralized dashboard to manage all tasks.

It provides drag-and-drop tools to create dynamic reports that help make strategic decisions and identify areas for improvement. Ensure coordination between stakeholders and serve clients better by managing a centralized database of legal documents, case files and client information. The platform offers:

  • Automated Alerts and Reminders
  • Business Intelligence
  • In-Depth Visibility
  • Centralized Data Repository
Product Overview
User Sentiment Score 88%
Company Size S | M | L
Pricing $$$

Primary Benefits

Legal calendaring and docketing software has a lot to offer in terms of task management and practice management. In this section, we’ll discuss some of these benefits:

Legal Calendaring and Docketing Benefits

Simplify Task Management and Organization

The software delivers all your law office calendar and task items in a centrally accessible firm-wide calendar. Having a single solution to track deadlines and dates makes it significantly easier to stay organized and in the loop.

You can customize views based on week, month, clients or matter type. The platform can automatically connect calendar entries to associated legal matters, amplifying visibility into action items.

A good legal calendaring system can organize itself with automated workflows and integrations. You can plan how your entire week or month looks just by looking at the dashboard. The system automatically populates important dates, deadlines and tasks based on predefined workflows, saving time and effort spent on manual data entry.

Avoid Missed Deadlines

Get routine alerts or notifications for upcoming events, tasks and deadlines through emails, pop-up notifications or integrated calendar alerts. You can set up directed notifications to alert task owners and team members about pending calendar items.

Run routine reports on your system to get a summary of upcoming events and legal proceedings to stay informed of what’s going on and where. This proactive approach enables you to remain on top of your workload and effectively manage your time.

Streamline Compliance With Automated Deadlines

Rules-based calendaring lets you accurately and efficiently manage deadlines and court dates. The platform automatically calculates deadlines based on jurisdiction and court rules. It lets you consider multiple factors like holidays, weekends, non-working days and various filing requirements.

You can stay updated with rule changes and amendments to ensure compliance, minimizing the risk of dismissed cases, missed hearings or potential malpractice suits. Court rules are subject to regular revisions, and tracking these changes can be daunting. Automatic updates ensure that legal calendaring software remains accurate and compliant with the latest rules.

Additionally, customizability options let you adjust the system according to specific practice areas, jurisdictional requirements or individual preferences, providing further flexibility and convenience.

Encourage Collaboration and Teamwork

A transparent and shareable system encourages collaboration across all departments and processes. Everyone can access everyone else’s calendar to know who’s doing what.

Users can view and edit the calendar, share important dates and deadlines, assign tasks to team members, and easily communicate about upcoming events or updates. Being in the loop makes it easier to schedule meetings without conflicts and errors.

You can also check on your team members to help them track deadlines and meetings if they miss a notification here and there.

Automatically Update Changes

In the legal industry, it’s not uncommon to reschedule appointments, defer hearings and seek extensions. However, it’s easy to lose track of what’s been moved to when and become disorganized.

Legal calendaring software can integrate with emailing systems to track date changes, allowing you to automatically update calendar entries. For instance, if an opposing counsel sends an email requesting you to reschedule a hearing, the system can detect relevant information in the email and automatically update the corresponding calendar entry.

Key Features & Functionality

Email Integration

You can automatically create calendar events from emails by integrating with email platforms like Gmail, Microsoft Outlook and Apple Mail. The platform associates emails with related legal matters and updates calendar entries accordingly.

This integration reduces the risk of overlooking crucial information or deadlines buried within emails. It links relevant correspondence to appropriate events, enabling you to access and reference required information in one centralized location.

Calendar Management

This module is the primary function of legal calendaring and docketing software. It gives visibility into legal dockets, including meetings, deadlines and hearings.

You can link calendar dates to case files and filter entries by week, month, case type and client. The shareable calendar format also allows you to track other people’s calendars.

Task Management

Having a transparent calendaring system makes it that much easier to schedule tasks. Review and assign cases to attorneys after reviewing individual workloads and obligations. Transparency ensures no single attorney has too much on their plate at any point in time.

You can create, edit and save custom task lists to streamline the assignment process for similar cases. Streamline the assignment process for similar cases using a template for tasks you need to complete.

The platform saves time and effort by eliminating the need to recreate task lists from scratch for each new case. It improves productivity and ensures consistency and accuracy in task management across different cases.

Audit Trail

Create and archive an internal audit trail for all calendaring and docketing actions your attorneys have undergone at the firm. These actions include everything from adding a task item to its subsequent conclusion and everything in between.

The internal audit trail ensures your firm functions in full compliance with regulations. It also safeguards against malpractice suits as long as you and your attorneys are in the right.

You can get a comprehensive record of all important dates, deadlines and updates, allowing for easy information retrieval and analysis during case management or legal proceedings. It helps lawyers stay organized, enhance collaboration and increase transparency within the firm.

Automated Alerts

Set up automated reminders to alert task owners of pending deadlines and commitments, including meetings, hearings, eDiscovery and eFiling. You can customize how often and how early notifications trigger.

The system lets you set preferences based on your working requirements or the nature of the task at hand. You can receive reminders daily, a few days in advance or even several weeks before the event.

This level of customization allows for personalized and efficient task management, reducing the chances of missing important deadlines.

Case Management

This module directly connects legal docket and calendar entries to associated case files. Store all confidential case files in a secure and centrally accessible database linked to the legal calendar management tool.

You can view, review and edit case files, check for conflicts of interest, and access contact details. It enables you to identify any potential issues that may arise in representation. You can also communicate promptly with clients, opposing counsel or other relevant parties.

Document Management

You can access, store and archive an unlimited number of legal documents. The legal document management tool also provides additional functionalities, including version history, optical character recognition (OCR) and eSignatures.

Court Rules and Data Feed Tracking

All legal calendaring and docketing systems have an internal database of court rules based on the client’s jurisdiction. You can import these court rules to automatically calculate deadlines based on jurisdictional requirements.

You can even maintain a real-time feed of court docket entries and schedule court hearings to ensure you don’t miss anything important.

Software Comparison Strategy

90% of law firms use legal technology and tools to manage legal proceedings. However, you shouldn’t rush into anything just because everyone else does it. Here are a few crucial points of comparison that should be a part of your requirements list:

  • Solo Practitioners: You’ll rarely need an enterprise-grade system; it’ll be more expensive, and you won’t need access to all its functionalities. A standard calendar tool with built-in email integration should be enough to serve your immediate requirements. However, if you can implement a scalable system with room for future growth, it would be ideal for your needs.
  • Small and Medium Businesses: A simple legal calendaring and docketing software won’t make it for small to mid-sized law firms. Assuming you deal with an average number of cases daily, you’ll also need tools for case management, document management, billing and time tracking. While these are by no means indispensable, they’ll still boost productivity and fuel your firm’s long-term growth.
  • Large Law Firms: In our opinion, large law firms should go for full-scale legal or case management software with dedicated calendar and docket management tools. When dealing with many lawyers and cases daily, you’ll need access to all the help you can get. In addition to regular features, this includes reporting, accounting, auditing, CRM and more.

Mode of Deployment

The preferred deployment mode will determine how accessible your legal calendaring and docketing software will be to your lawyers.

  • On-Premise: You’ll be physically installing the software on your company’s existing or newly acquired hardware. This method allows more room for customizability and flexibility and provides uninterrupted offline access in case of internet outages.
  • Cloud-Based: You’ll need to subscribe to the software on a monthly, quarterly or yearly basis. Once that’s done, you can access the platform from a web browser or a dedicated application. While this is a quicker and simpler choice, you’ll need a continuous internet connection to access the system and its features.

Integrations

If you’re transitioning from a previous system, you might have existing relationships with several third-party apps. These integrations are crucial to how the software interacts with your firm, the absence of which can negatively affect your ROI. You need to determine beforehand if the software supports integration with required apps.

Security Requirements

The legal industry is a highly regulated playing field because of access to extremely confidential documents. Multiple state and federal regulations govern how firms store and protect client and payment information. Ensure the legal calendaring and docketing software meets all relevant regulatory requirements before you make a decision.

Remote Accessibility

Generally, cloud-delivered software is a popular and far superior choice for remote accessibility. The ability to connect to the platform from any authorized device with an internet connection isn’t available for on-premise deployments.

However, many vendors provide a mobile app along with the primary platform. As long as the mobile app has access to most primary functionalities, it can be a suitable alternative.

For more guidance, you can explore our nine-step Lean Selection methodology that ensures you follow the right path when selecting software for your business-specific needs.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

  • Deployment: On-premise deployment requires you to physically install the software on your firm’s hardware. It offers greater flexibility and customization but is more expensive to maintain. On the other hand, cloud-based deployment is less expensive and easier to implement. However, it relies on having a fully functional internet connection active 24/7.
  • User Numbers: Vendors offer different licensing options, such as per-user or firm-wide licenses. The cost will typically depend on the number of users requiring software access.
  • Feature Set: Different software providers offer varying levels of features and functionalities. The cost may increase with more advanced features like practice management software integration or advanced reporting capabilities. Assess your firm's needs and select a software package that aligns with those requirements to avoid paying for unnecessary features.
  • Customization: Some legal calendaring software may offer the option to customize the platform to fit your firm's workflows and requirements. Additional customization may come with an added cost.
  • Implementation and Training: Consider the cost of implementation and training, including the time and resources required to onboard your staff and ensure a smooth transition to the new platform.
  • Support and Maintenance: Make sure you are aware of any ongoing support or maintenance fees associated with the software. These costs may include updates, technical support and access to customer service.
  • Additional Services: The number of services you engage with can affect pricing. Depending on the vendor, subscription prices can vary for a basic package and a complete suite. Some vendors also offer additional services, including migration assistance, premium support and data residency. Always keep your budget in mind when selecting what services to go for.

Questions To Ask

Questions are the gateway to figuring out your requirements. The more questions you ask, the easier it will be to understand what’s ideal for you and your firm.

To get you started, we’ve prepared a list of questions to ask internally:

  • What’s the size and scale of our law firm?
  • Do we need a scalable solution?
  • Do we need to track court data feeds?
  • Do we need access to the case management/electronic case files (CM/ECF) system?
  • What regulations do we need to comply with?

Legal Calendaring and Docketing Key Questions

Here are a few questions to simplify communication with your vendor:

  • What kind of integrations does the software support?
  • Does the vendor support data localization?
  • Does the platform provide jurisdictional rules-based calendaring?
  • What type of support does the vendor provide?
  • Does the platform offer a mobile app?

FAQs

Why is legal calendaring important?

Legal calendaring can help legal professionals and law firms:

  • Track and manage important dates and deadlines related to legal proceedings efficiently.
  • Set automated reminders to avoid missing critical events or deadlines.
  • Facilitate collaboration and coordination among team members by allowing shared access to important dates and schedules.
  • Promote transparency and ensure a balanced distribution of tasks and responsibilities within a legal practice.
  • Centralize case files and link them to the calendar for easy access and retrieval of relevant information.
  • Enhance communication with clients, opposing counsel and other parties by providing quick access to contact details.

What is calendaring and docketing?

Calendaring and docketing are crucial functions in the legal field that involve managing and organizing important dates, deadlines and events related to legal proceedings.

Calendaring refers to creating and maintaining a calendar of dates and deadlines associated with legal cases. It includes court appearances, hearings, filing deadlines, meetings and other significant events.

Docketing, on the other hand, involves systematically recording and tracking case-related information in a docket. A docket serves as a chronological record of all events, filings and actions taken in a legal case. It helps you properly document and assign all necessary tasks and responsibilities for smooth case management.

Both calendaring and docketing are essential for legal professionals to stay organized, meet deadlines, avoid conflicts of interest and efficiently manage their workload.

What’s the advantage of a court rules-based calendaring system?

A court rules-based calendaring system offers several advantages in the legal field:

  • Ensure Accuracy: You can automatically calculate court deadlines based on the jurisdiction’s specific rules and requirements to ensure accurate calendaring.
  • Maintain Compliance: It helps stay compliant with jurisdiction-specific requirements and adjust deadlines in real time if court rules change.
  • Meet Deadlines With Confidence: The system provides assurance and confidence in meeting court deadlines. Legal professionals can trust that the calendaring system considers all relevant court rules and factors, reducing the need for constant double-checking.
  • Mitigate Risks: It helps prevent the consequences of missed deadlines like case dismissals, default judgments or adverse rulings due to filing or appearance delays.

Next Steps

The entire point of implementing legal calendaring software is to simplify the organization of legal matters while minimizing human errors and omissions. You can get a significant ROI depending on how good of a job you do at selecting the software. But don’t let the stakes distract you from the task. You already know everything you need to know to make the right decision.

Carefully frame your requirements, prepare a shortlist and then take it one option at a time. Selecting the perfect system can be overwhelming, but we hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices.

For further assistance in your software selection journey, you can check out our free comparison report that provides a side-by-side analysis of industry leaders based on your unique requirements. Happy selecting!

Product Comparisons

Additional Resources

About The Contributors

The following expert team members are responsible for creating, reviewing, and fact checking the accuracy of this content.

Technical Content Writer
As a Senior Technical Content Writer at SelectHub, Riddhiman Roy delivers content about eCommerce, legal, employee scheduling, procurement, hotel management and property management software. He holds a Master's in multimedia journalism from the Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media. When he is not fighting huge-article-ogres and evil Grammarly suggestions, you can find him in his natural habitat grooving to music and banging his drumkit.
Technical Research By Vidhi Kanodia
Senior Analyst
Vidhi Kanodia joined SelectHub after graduating from Osmania University in Hyderabad. Building on the hands-on experience she gained there, she expertly reviews peer research work in categories like procurement, PLM, eCommerce, insurance, hotel management, risk management and legal software.
Technical Review By Shashank K K
Principal Analyst
After graduating with a Masters in Finance from Trinity College Dublin, K K Shashank's research and detail-oriented skills led them to SelectHub. He has diverse knowledge across various software categories like Accounting, Financial Planning and Analysis, Ecommerce, Risk Management, PLM, Insurance and more since 2020.
Edited By Pooja Verma
Content Editor
Pooja Verma is a Content Editor and Senior Market Analyst at SelectHub, who writes and edits content for endpoint security, legal, CRM, fundraising software, eCommerce, and mental health software. She earned a literature degree from Miranda House, DU and also holds Master’s in Journalism from Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication in India. In her free time, you can spot her reading a book or binge-watching the latest web series and movies.