Is It Legal? Lots of Legal Software Isn’t Original, But That’s Okay

I’ve got some surprising news: some lawyer didn’t invent the idea of CRM software.  Neither were the relational databases that serve as the backbone for law practice management softwares built for law firms.  But, that’s okay.  Because lots of software is derivative – including within the legal vertical, where there are uncountable numbers of copycats of Clio and RocketMatter, which introduced the first cloud-based case management softwares to lawyers. 

Is any legal version of a CRM going to be as impactful, widely-used or feature-rich as Salesforce is?  Decidedly not.  So, you may be asking yourself the question – Why would I ever use any legal software, if it’s not as good as the alternatives?  Don’t I want to be using the best software? 

 

Well, yes; but, let me add an important caveat to that formulation: You want to be using the best software for your law firm, which means that you may not end up choosing the worldwide leader. 

 

Why not?  Well, there are several reasons.  First of all, software built for lawyers is more likely to house features that attorneys care about.  Secondly (and maybe most importantly), law firm software is more likely to integrate directly with other law firm software – so, you don’t have to connect it via a third party tool, which will add an additional cost.  Third, some law firm softwares (and other non-law firm softwares) are cheaper than mammoth providers, like Salesforce – which small businesses often get priced out of.  Lastly, legal-specific software tools generally feature executives and costumer service reps who have a better understanding of attorneys’ needs. 

 

While it may not be perfect, there is a lot to recommend legal-facing software tools. 

 

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Want to learn more about your legaltech options?  Contact us today! 

Through a unique partnership between the bar association and Jared Correia's Red Cave Law Firm Consulting, Vermont Bar Association members have access to experienced law practice management consultants at a special discounted rate.

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