Top 10 CRM for Law Firms in 2023
Cecily Giancaterino
Sep 06, 2023
∙
16 min read
CRM
Phones ringing, case files piling up, unread emails, client-facing duties—the list goes on. And amidst all this chaos, attorneys are still tasked with trying to remember every client's unique needs. This is the everyday scenario in many law firms, both large and small.
Customer relationship management (CRM) software is the secret weapon in every successful law firm's arsenal, transforming stressed practices into smooth-running legal powerhouses. A CRM can help you manage information and your interactions with potential and current clients. Plus, it's a centralized hub for communication within and outside your firm.
Given the many CRM software options suited for law firms, choosing the best one for you may be overwhelming. In this guide, we dive into 10 of the top law firm CRM software platforms so you can make the right choice.
But first, here are a few key takeaways:
- A law firm CRM is designed to specifically address the needs of law firms, such as keeping track of leads and referrals and maintaining client contacts.
- A law firm CRM makes workflow more efficient by automating operational processes, driving businesses to growth and success.
- Law firm CRMs also enable firms to improve client service by managing follow-ups, providing fast access to contact information, and making client case details easily accessible to all.
- When looking for the best CRM software for law firms, key features include case and matter management, data security, compliance, integrations, and quality support.
- The best law firm CRM software options on the market today include the following: FiveCRM, Lawmatics, HubSpot, Zoho CRM, Salesforce, Law Ruler, Clio, SugarCRM, Captorra, and Intapp.
Table of Contents:
Here are the top 10 CRM software platforms for law firms:
- FiveCRM
- Lawmatics
- HubSpot
- Zoho CRM
- Salesforce
- Law Ruler
- Clio
- SugarCRM
- Captorra
- Intapp
What Is a CRM for Law Firms?
Customer relationship management (CRM) software for law firms streamlines client and case management. It addresses the needs of law firms and lawyers to efficiently organize and track client data, case information, and evidence. It manages client-facing activities such as schedules, contact information, and follow-up communication.
Do Law Firms Need CRM software?
Investing in CRM software is non-negotiable if the goal is to improve client service and grow your practice. A fully integrated CRM software is incredibly beneficial in your day-to-day operations as it assists you with client management, case tracking, and communicating with stakeholders inside and outside your organization.
These benefits help optimize your firm's workflows and foster stronger relationships with potential and existing clients.
How to Evaluate CRM Software for Law Firms
When choosing the best CRM software for your law firm, make an informed decision by carefully assessing the factors relevant to your legal practice. Here are some key considerations to help you with your decision-making.
Legal-Specific Features
The best CRM for law firms has to be equipped with robust capabilities suited to the needs of legal professionals. Using the CRM, you must be able to organize and track cases, matters, clients, and pertinent documents, all in one place.
Look for a platform that offers document management, client communication features, client intake features, and seamless integrations with your legal tech stack.
Data Security and Compliance
As an attorney, you deal with a massive volume of confidential information daily. Your CRM software should comply with data protection regulations and safeguard sensitive legal information. For example, choose a platform that offers features such as data encryption and two-factor authentication.
Responsive Customer Support
Opt for a CRM that provides responsive and attentive customer support so you can focus on your clients’ cases and not on troubleshooting your software. Many vendors offer a wide range of support options, from phone support to live chat.
1. FiveCRM
Rating: 4.4/5.0 (G2)
Key Features:
- Complete customization: FiveCRM can be customized to fit your law firm's unique processes. This means you'll have a CRM tailored to fit you, not just another cookie-cutter platform.
- Intelligent automation: The platform features automation tools to reduce manual tasks. For example, you can automatically schedule follow-up emails or client appointments without lifting a finger.
- Integrations: FiveCRM integrates seamlessly with other critical apps and systems, from accounting platforms to e-sign services.
- Task management and tracking: Maximize your legal team’s efficiency by setting reminders and notifying everyone of deadlines to ensure everyone’s on time with their tasks.
FiveCRM is at the top of its game when it comes to CRM software for law firms. The platform offers the robust management tools you need to manage your clients and processes, from call-back management to enhanced client and KPI reports.
FiveCRM sets itself apart from its other popular competitors with its customizability. It features a modular design that allows you to adjust features based on how your firm's needs evolve. This means that as you scale, your CRM will scale too. You can also extend your CRM using FiveCRM's powerful integrations with other systems.
FiveCRM is also GDPR compliant and offers a range of security features to ensure the security of your data. Pricing starts at just $70 per month/seat when billed monthly.
2. Lawmatics
Rating: 4.6/5.0 (G2)
Key Features:
- Modern intake solution: Client intake is an essential part of legal practice. Lawmatics streamlines this process with its robust online form builder and automatic information-gathering features while maintaining a human touch.
- Instant client engagement: A good client relationship is at the heart of every law practice. Lawmatics features an embedded two-way text communication feature that helps clients have easy access to their legal teams.
- End-to-end CRM automation: Lawmatics automation tools cover the entire CRM lifecycle—from client intake to successful case management.
Lawmatics is designed specifically with legal practices in mind. This tool allows you to effortlessly streamline your law firm’s operations, achieve client satisfaction, and grow your business.
Lawmatics is unique in that it offers robust client intake features, including dynamic email workflows, customizable digital intake forms, and e-signature software built right in. You can easily onboard clients and get to work faster with these tools.
Plans start at $199/month for the Lite option and $249/month for the Pro. The enterprise version is also available with custom yearly pricing.
3. HubSpot
Rating: 4.4/5. (G2)
Key Features:
- Centralized client communication: HubSpot makes interacting and communicating with clients about case updates and sharing documents easy through its built-in and centralized communication system.
- Customizable case management: It allows law firms to create and customize case pipelines that make tracking legal matters, deadlines, and client communications efficient and streamlined.
- Task and activity tracking: Through its task and activity tracking feature, collaboration with the legal team flows more smoothly. It automatically manages appointments, follow-ups, and task deadlines effectively to make sure nothing is missed.
HubSpot is an excellent CRM choice for law firms whose strategies include enhancing client relationship management and operational efficiency to drive business success. By being attuned to clients’ needs, streamlining workflows, and being intentionally data-driven in making decisions, your legal practice can grow with HubSpot.
You can get the basic HubSpot CRM tools for free. The Starter CRM package starts at $20 per month when billed monthly.
4. Zoho CRM
Rating: 4.0/5.0 (G2)
Key Features:
- Comprehensive features: Zoho CRM is packed with features and functions that equip your law firm with the tools to assist in every aspect of your daily operations, covering your whole client lifecycle.
- Custom case management solutions: With its flexible case management tools, you can adapt the CRM to your specific legal processes, helping your firm deliver quality and efficient service to your clients.
- Document management and automation: Law firms can rest assured that all pertinent client and case-related information is securely stored in Zoho CRM’s database. Managing legal documents, contracts, and correspondence is also quick with its capacity for automation and easy-to-navigate platform.
Zoho CRM offers a comprehensive and versatile solution that addresses the unique needs of law firms. Its robust set of features, customizability, and security compliance empower law firms to go about their day-to-day operations with the guarantee of having a firm and steadfast business solutions partner in Zoho CRM.
Zoho CRM plans are available at various price points. Standard starts at $14 per user/month when billed annually, and Professional starts at $23 per user/month. There's also a free trial, so you can test Zoho within your firm.
5. Salesforce
Rating: 4.3/5.0 (G2)
Key Features:
- Contact management: Salesforce is ideal for law firms that prioritize client relationships. With its powered contact management feature, client relationship and interaction management are a breeze.
- Adaptability and user-friendly interface: Salesforce boasts of its easy-to-navigate, drag-and-drop interface, making customization quick and easy.
- Analytics and insights: Gaining insight into your firm’s performance and client interactions is crucial to maintaining quality service and increasing caseload. Salesforce offers detailed analytics and real-time insights to help your business decision-making.
Salesforce is a leading CRM vendor that offers features designed for medium-sized to larger firms and businesses. Its reputation in the industry makes it a top choice for law firms that seek a more efficient and effective way to handle their client-related needs for maximum efficiency.
As for pricing, Salesforce Starter will cost you $25 per user/month when billed annually. Other pricing tiers are available, including Professional, Enterprise, and Unlimited.
6. Law Ruler
Rating: 4.8/5.0 (G2)
Key Features:
- Customized automation: Law Ruler excels in all aspects of client management because of its customized automation feature. From lead generation to nurturing, Law Ruler offers unlimited interaction automation for maximum client engagement.
- Comprehensive communication tools: Built into the Law Ruler system are a range of communication tools, such as text messaging, automatic dialer features, and email marketing, among others. This enhances client interactions by enabling you to connect with clients in the way they want or need.
- Integrations and workflows: Seamless integration with case management software is possible with Law Ruler, making your workflow simpler and your data transfer seamless.
Law Ruler is known for its industry-specific focus and comprehensive features dedicated to legal practices, such as intake and settlement assistance. Law Ruler features a user-friendly interface and excellent customer support, making it non-intimidating for new users who wish to boost their business revenue.
Law Ruler provides affordable pricing, starting at $169/month for Pro to $212/month for Premium. These plans include up to three users.
7. Clio
7. Clio
Rating: 4.6/5.0 (G2)
Key Features:
- Comprehensive case management: Clio offers a centralized database and platform for managing cases, appointments, and bills. As cloud-based software, it provides unlimited storage and remote access to client information, enhancing accessibility and facilitating efficient workflows.
- Streamlined client intake: Clio supports law firms in simplifying their client intake. The platform enables you to collect info using digital intake forms, instantly generate retainer documents, and send documents for e-signature with the press of a button.
- Integrated practice management: A comprehensive and integrated CRM tool, you save financial resources as Clio is all-in-one. It combines multiple functions, enabling law firms to enhance overall productivity.
Clio stands out among its competitors with its comprehensive suite of features that can be fully integrated to enhance your client management processes and workflows. Clio is an all-in-one platform, providing robust CRM features as well as law practice management, document automation, matter organization, and beyond.
A free trial of Clio is available, but paid editions run from $39 per user/month for EasyStart to $129 per user/month for the complete edition.
8. SugarCRM
Rating: 4.2/5.0 (Gartner)
Key Features:
- Exceptional customizability: SugarCRM takes pride in being one of the world's most customizable CRM solutions, making it an excellent tool for law firms that prefer high customization.
- User-friendly interface: Its easy-to-navigate interface enhances the user experience, providing seamless and intuitive CRM interaction. SugarCRM is perfect for small firms that need an easy-to-use and implement CRM platform.
- Cost-effective and scalable: The cost-effective and versatile SugarCRM platform offers scalability for expansion and business growth. Depending on your preferences and current needs, you can add new modules and users and choose between on-premise and cloud-based versions.
Whether you're a small firm or a big legal enterprise, SugarCRM has your unique needs covered with its customization options, adaptability, and scalability.
Depending on your goals, SugarCRM offers varied editions at different price points. Prices range from $49 per user/month for sales automation, $80 per user/month for customer service, and $1,000 per month for marketing automation.
9. Captorra
Rating: 4.1/5.0 (G2)
Key Features:
- Tailored for personal injury firms: Captorra is the only CRM specifically created with personal injury firms in mind.
- Workflow management and intake: Captorra enhances the operational efficiency of personal injury firms with its customized workflows, especially the intake management process.
- Integration and automation: The platform makes integrating with other legal platforms a breeze. Plus, you can automate your processes using the built-in automation features, making your operations easier to handle.
Captorra was built specifically for personal injury practices. The platform offers robust lead management and intake features as well as built-in case management capabilities.
One standout feature is the ability to use Captorra natively or directly within Microsoft 365 applications. This feature enables your team to get up to speed with Captorra faster, especially if they're already used to Microsoft 365.
Pricing isn't readily available on the platform's website. You must contact the sales team for more detailed information.
10. Intapp
Rating: No reviews available
Key Features:
- Client-centered collaboration features: Intapp integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 and enables secure external collaboration with clients. Plus, legal teams can use Microsoft Teams to collaborate on complex matters with Intapp Workspaces, a Microsoft Teams extension.
- DealCloud: For law firms with marketing teams, DealCloud enables marketing professionals to develop pitches, track the ROI of their campaigns, and more.
- Built-in compliance features: Features such as ongoing risk monitoring and advanced search for conflict clearing help firms remain in compliance.
Intapp powers the connected law firm. Through its integration with Microsoft 365, firms can easily collaborate, manage documents, and more using an app they're already familiar with. Other features, such as marketing automation and client intake support, can help you take your firm to the next level.
Pricing isn't disclosed on Intapp's website. For more information, you'll need to reach out to the sales team.
Power Your Client Management Experience With FiveCRM
FiveCRM is your dedicated client management solution that's customizable to fit the needs of your law firm. From automated appointment scheduling to real-time analytics, everything you need to manage and grow your firm is at your fingertips with FiveCRM.
Schedule a demo today to discover the revolutionary impact of FiveCRM on your legal practice.
FAQs: Law Firm CRM
Q: What is a CRM for law firms?
A: A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) for law firms is software designed to streamline client and case management. It helps law firms efficiently organize and track client data, case information, evidence, and manage client-facing activities such as schedules, contact information, and follow-up communication.
Q: Why do law firms need CRM software?
A: Law firms need CRM software to improve client service, optimize their workflows, and foster stronger relationships with potential and existing clients. A fully integrated CRM assists with client management, case tracking, and communication with stakeholders, both inside and outside the firm.
Q: What are the key features to look for in a law firm CRM?
A: Key features to consider when choosing a CRM for law firms include case and matter management, data security, compliance, integrations, quality support, and legal-specific features such as document management, client communication, and client intake features.
Q: Which are the top CRM software platforms for law firms in 2023?
A: The top CRM software platforms for law firms in 2023 include FiveCRM, Lawmatics, HubSpot, Zoho CRM, Salesforce, Law Ruler, Clio, SugarCRM, Captorra, and Intapp.
Q: How does a law firm CRM enhance workflow efficiency?
A: A law firm CRM makes workflows more efficient by automating operational processes. This drives business growth and success by keeping track of leads and referrals, maintaining client contacts, managing follow-ups, providing fast access to contact information, and making client case details easily accessible to all.
Q: What are the data security considerations for a law firm CRM?
A: Law firms handle a significant amount of confidential information daily. Therefore, a CRM software for law firms should comply with data protection regulations and ensure the safeguarding of sensitive legal information. Features such as data encryption and two-factor authentication are essential for data security.
Q: How does FiveCRM stand out among other CRM platforms for law firms?
A: FiveCRM stands out due to its high customizability, allowing it to fit a law firm's unique processes. It features a modular design, enabling adjustment based on evolving firm needs. Additionally, FiveCRM is GDPR compliant, offers a range of security features, and integrates seamlessly with other critical apps and systems.
Q: What is the importance of responsive customer support in a law firm CRM?
A: Responsive customer support in a CRM ensures that law firms can focus on their clients' cases rather than troubleshooting software issues. A CRM with attentive support options, such as phone support or live chat, can address concerns and provide solutions promptly.
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