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    Trends To Watch In 2022

    by SimpleLaw on
    Case management software

    Hold on a second while I grab my crystal ball. Just kidding. But there are some clear trends to keep an eye on in the coming year for law firms of all sizes. Client needs, data security, and the adoption of technology are the three key trends we anticipate for the coming year.

    Client Needs

    We start with client needs because ultimately, giving clients the optimal experience is at the heart of what law firms must consider. Naturally, the top need is resolving their legal issue and getting the best possible advice to do that. Beyond that core need, clients look for efficiency and responsiveness. Transparency to their case and the process is also a top need. Particularly as a result of the pandemic, clients are increasingly comfortable with cloud-based software and accessing client portals. Similar to medical portals, sending messages, sharing documents, and reviewing notes are now the norm.

    The first focus is of course on finding the right attorney for their legal issue. Unless you are an attorney in an area without many options or a legal desert, clients often have several choices when choosing an attorney. When selecting an attorney, over 75% of people check online reviews prior to making a decision. If you don't have an online review setup for your firm, best to get on that right away. This trend will only continue.

    Looking into 2022, clients will continue to grow even more comfortable with technology. They will be even more comfortable working on their legal matter themselves, providing information through a portal to be used to streamline processes. Firms without this technology will see, at best, a slower growth rate, if not a decline. Client portals are no longer a competitive advantage, but a necessity.

    Data Security

    As a result of the move to online options over the last two years, data security is critical. As individuals become more aware of the risks of all this online activity, they will learn more about the options. Make sure your firm has a data security process documented. Clients will increasingly ask about how your firm protects their data.

    There are some great options out there to help you develop your data security. Always, check with the ABA. They offer a great resource created in conjunction with LawPay, 'Law firm guide to cybersecurity'. Everything from taking an inventory of your cyber assets, best practices on creating passwords, network protection, limits to access, and many other aspects. 

    Training is key. Check out online training to spot malware, phishing, and other cyber threats. Most cyber security breaches are caused by individuals opening attachments, or clicking links, from seemingly trustworthy sources. Training is key. There are several online options to ensure your firm knows how to spot potential attacks. The National Cybersecurity Alliance is a great resource.

    Technology Adoption

    I must say, I was a bit surprised at how low the adoption of case management software continues to be in 2022. Law firms adopted needs-based tools, like cloud-based document storage, eSignature options, and other task-oriented tools. Specifically, as it relates to data security, a piecemeal approach spreads data security risk solely because the more tools used, the greater the odds. 

    As law firms continue to grow in confidence in adopting technology, we believe more firms will adopt full case management software. The right platform is out there, no doubt. The trick is to identify your top needs, your top concerns, and then expand the list of needs from there. So rather than looking solely for a client portal consider a platform that also provides time tracking, invoicing, online payment, notes, and more. 

    Why the legal industry has been slow to adopt technology is anyone's guess. 2021 was another typical year in terms of technology adoption as in prior years, not solely pandemic-affected 2020, per the ABA TECHREPORT. We also anticipate growing technology capabilities. However, with the legal industry, these advancements won't be quickly instituted. 

    The benefits of technology include driving efficiency for the firm and the client, creating a collaborative team to address the legal issue at hand, and delivering transparency. Managing the security aspect of it is up to the provider as well as the firm. 

    Is your firm focused on these issues? 

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