Attorneys at solo practice and small firms are reporting an increase in the amount of time spent practicing law, as opposed to administrative tasks. It’s the reversal of a years-long trend, according to the Thomson Reuters Institute 2023 State of U.S. Small Law Firms report.

This research details that the amount of time attorneys spend on administrative tasks has decreased from 44% to 39% – allowing more time to focus on revenue-generating work.* This is great news for billable hours and rates!

But when we look closer at this statistic, it also means that solo and small practice attorneys, like you, are still spending 15.5 hours on administrative issues out of every 40 hours worked. That includes tasks like finding clients, creating marketing materials and tracking down payments. So, what can you to do help cut down on this time even more?

Tips to increase your firm’s efficiency

1. Utilize a virtual receptionist

According to CLIO, a virtual receptionist is “a remote professional who ensures all client calls are answered and resolved based on their needs.” What they work on depends on your needs, however they can often be used to schedule appointments, route calls and answer basic questions.

2. Invest in practice management software

Utilizing a high-quality practice management software can help make sure you don’t miss out on important dates and details. This type of software can help with a variety of administrative tasks such as time tracking and billing, document management, scheduling and more. By using technology to handle these tasks, you can spend more time practicing law and participating in revenue-driving activities.

You may already be using practice management software, but these platforms are always evolving. Consider the following questions:

• Are you up to speed on the latest developments and tools?
• When was the last time you shopped around for new software solutions?
• Does your current software cover the needs of your practice?

Take some time to evaluate your current software to ensure that your project management solution is working hard for you and your practice.

3. Use an intake system

Similar to – or even in combination with – practice management software, an intake system can automate parts of your intake process so you can spend more time on what matters – connecting with your clients. An intake system can send out a set of standard questions for all new clients and allow them to upload critical documents and other background information.

This is another area where a virtual receptionist or assistant is valuable. If you have an automated intake system, your virtual receptionist could help manage the software and organize everything that new clients need to get started working with you.

4. Consider incorporating AI into your firm

Some attorneys are still considering how to best incorporate AI technology in their firms. Consider utilizing AI to streamline your practice, such as through:

• Completing research
• Reviewing documents more efficiently
• Analyzing large datasets for insights
• Document analysis
• Case management

If you’re someone who is ready to go all in with generative AI, make sure to utilize an AI software system that is specifically designed for the legal field. Whether you want to start small or go all in, AI can be beneficial for your firm’s productivity.

5. Join a legal insurance provider network – like ARAG

When you join the ARAG Attorney Network, you will save time looking for new clients, because we refer engaged and informed clients directly to your firm. You won’t have to worry about tracking down payments from ARAG clients – you get paid directly by ARAG for covered matters. And now, joining the ARAG Attorney Network can expand your practice even further – you will have the choice to be available for clients across the states where you’re licensed, for select legal matters that can be handled fully virtually.

If you’re interested in joining the ARAG Attorney Network, apply now!