The Very Best Time and Billing Software for Attorneys in 2024

Last Updated -
September 1, 2024 18:01
Written by -
Alec Chambers

If you’re an attorney looking to streamline your practice, the right time and billing software can make all the difference.

But many small law firms and solo practitioners struggle to find an affordable, efficient solution tailored to their specific needs.

That’s where the best time and billing software for attorneys comes in—designed to simplify and automate your billing processes, these tools free up your time for more important tasks.

You don’t need to be tech-savvy or invest countless hours learning complex software—these solutions are user-friendly and built with busy attorneys in mind. In 2024, many of these tools have integrated the latest in technology, making them smarter and quicker than ever.

After extensive research and testing of various options available, we've curated a list of the top time and billing software for attorneys. Read on to discover the best tools to help you improve your billing accuracy, manage your time effectively, and boost your practice’s productivity.

LawPay - Simplify Legal Payments with LawPay

LawPay is a specialized payment processing solution crafted exclusively for law firms to securely manage client payments while adhering to legal industry standards. Trusted by thousands of legal professionals, LawPay empowers firms to handle payments with ease, ensuring compliance with American Bar Association (ABA) and Interest on Lawyers' Trust Accounts (IOLTA) guidelines. This payment platform offers a secure environment for clients to pay invoices, make deposits, and transact, safeguarding the integrity of trust accounts.

LawPay simplifies the payment process with an array of advanced features. It guarantees the correct separation of earned and unearned fees, crucial for ethical and financial compliance. Integration with major practice management software allows seamless financial management within existing systems. Additionally, LawPay ensures that no debits occur from IOLTA accounts, protecting trust funds at all times.

Boasting a user-friendly interface, LawPay enables law firms to accept online payments quickly. Simple payment links can be shared with clients, expediting transactions and improving cash flow. LawPay claims to help firms get paid 39% faster compared to traditional methods, reducing administrative burdens. Its reliability is further endorsed by all 50 state bars, 60+ local and specialty bars, and the ABA, cementing its trustworthiness in the legal community.

LawPay's commitment to the legal industry extends beyond payment processing. It offers special promotions such as no monthly fees for a certain period, especially for state bar association members. Educational resources, including Continuing Legal Education (CLE) events, assist law firms in staying current on payment-related legal and ethical issues. LawPay provides robust technical support, ensuring any issues are promptly addressed, and maintains stringent security and privacy standards for all transactions.

Benefits:

  • Compliance with Legal Standards: LawPay ensures that payments are processed in compliance with American Bar Association (ABA) and Interest on Lawyers' Trust Accounts (IOLTA) guidelines.
  • Separation of Earned and Unearned Fees: The system is designed to correctly separate earned and unearned fees, avoiding ethical and financial compliance issues.
  • Secure Online Payments: LawPay provides a secure platform for clients to make online payments, covering invoices, deposits, and other transactions.
  • Integration with Practice Management Software: LawPay integrates with most major practice management solutions for seamless financial management.
  • No Debits from IOLTA Accounts: Protects trust funds by guaranteeing that no debits occur from IOLTA accounts.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies online payment acceptance with easy-to-use payment links.
  • Faster Payment Processing: Helps firms get paid 39% faster, improving cash flow.
  • State and Local Bar Association Endorsements: Endorsed by all 50 state bars, 60+ local and specialty bars, and the ABA.
  • Special Offers and Member Benefits: Special promotions like no monthly fees for a period, especially for state bar association members.
  • Educational Resources: Provides CLE events to keep firms updated on payment-related legal and ethical issues.
  • Technical Support: Ensures support for any technical issues through robust channels.
  • Security and Privacy: Emphasizes secure and compliant transaction processing.

Simplified Pricing Info:

  • Promotional Offers: Sign up for LawPay and get no monthly fee for the first three months, available for members of certain state bar associations like the State Bar of Texas.
  • General Pricing Structure: LawPay typically charges a processing fee for each transaction. The exact rates vary depending on factors such as the type of card used (e.g., credit vs. debit).
  • No IOLTA Debits: LawPay ensures that no debits are allowed from the IOLTA (Interest on Lawyers' Trust Accounts) at any time, a key compliance feature for law firms.
  • Integration and Additional Services: LawPay integrates with major practice management solutions which might have additional costs or requirements.
  • Contact for Detailed Pricing: For precise and accurate pricing, contact LawPay directly through their support channels.

TimeSolv: Comprehensive Time and Billing Software for Attorneys

TimeSolv is a robust time tracking and billing solution tailored for law firms and other professional services. Popular among solo practitioners, partners, and billing managers, TimeSolv simplifies administrative tasks through its comprehensive features and intuitive design.

The platform excels in time tracking and billing, boasting a user-friendly interface suitable for both online and offline use across various devices. Automated billing features, like retainer replenishment using credit card or ACH information, streamline the invoicing process. TimeSolv's customizable invoice templates and efficient payment processing through TimeSolvPay ensure that businesses can maintain a healthy cash flow without hidden costs.

Project management is made easier with TimeSolv's capabilities to create phases and tasks for matter management, coupled with daily to-do lists to enhance staff productivity. Dynamic dashboards offer real-time insights into key metrics and billing performance, aiding firms in making informed decisions. Data security is paramount, with the cloud-based system backing up every 10 minutes and highly encrypted data transmission.

The software also integrates seamlessly with other legal tools like Law Ruler, allowing for streamlined workflows and efficient client data management. Support for client and contact management, alongside encrypted document sharing, ensures that all client interactions are secure and efficient. TimeSolv offers assistance in migrating historical data from other systems, ensuring a smooth transition for new users.

While specific pricing details are not immediately available on their website, interested parties can contact TimeSolv directly or request a demo to obtain a customized quote.

With a commitment to enhancing efficiency, improving cash flow, and providing robust data security, TimeSolv stands as a reliable tool for law firms and professional services looking to optimize their time tracking and billing processes.

Benefits:

  • User-Friendly Interface: TimeSolv offers an intuitive interface for tracking time and generating invoices. It supports both online and offline use across various devices, including MACs, PCs, and mobile devices.
  • Automated Billing: The software allows for the automation of billing processes, including the replenishment of retainers using stored credit card or ACH information.
  • Customizable Invoices: TimeSolv provides flexible billing templates that enable users to customize invoices according to their needs. This feature helps in presenting the desired information in a clear and organized manner.
  • Efficient Payment Processing: With TimeSolvPay, users can process client payments automatically, improving cash flow and reducing accounts receivable. This feature includes competitive processing rates and no hidden costs.
  • Budgeting and Task Management: Users can create phases and tasks for their matters, facilitating budgeting and project management. This helps in organizing and tracking the progress of projects effectively.
  • Daily Tasks: The software provides daily to-do lists, ensuring that staff members are aware of their tasks and can manage their work efficiently.
  • Dynamic Dashboards: TimeSolv offers dynamic dashboards that provide real-time insights into key metrics. These dashboards can be personalized to display essential data points, helping users monitor productivity and track the progress of specific matters.
  • Billing Performance: The software allows for the tracking of billing performance, enabling firms to gain insights into their financial health and make informed decisions.
  • Cloud-Based Security: TimeSolv ensures that all data is secured in the cloud and backed up every 10 minutes to two different locations. Data transmission is highly encrypted using 256-bit SSL.
  • Third-Party Integrations: TimeSolv integrates with other legal software solutions, such as Law Ruler, to streamline workflows. This integration allows for the seamless transfer of client data, documents, and other relevant information.
  • Client and Contact Management: The software facilitates the creation and management of client and contact records. It also checks for duplicate contacts to avoid redundancy.
  • Document Sharing: Documents from other systems, such as Law Ruler, can be shared with TimeSolv via encrypted document URLs.
  • Ease of Use: TimeSolv is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible for solo firms, partners, and billing managers alike. The software aims to simplify time tracking and billing processes, allowing professionals to focus on their core work.
  • Data Conversion: TimeSolv offers services to migrate existing and historic data from other systems, ensuring a smooth transition.

Simplified Pricing Info:

  • Free 30-day trial available for all new users, providing access to the full suite of features including time tracking, billing, invoicing, project management, performance tracking, data security, and integrations with third-party software.
  • After the trial period, TimeSolv offers flexible pricing plans based on the number of users and specific requirements of the firm. Customizable plans ensure that firms of all sizes, from solo practitioners to large law firms, can find a plan that fits their needs.
  • Additional discounts may be available for annual subscriptions, providing a cost-effective solution for long-term users. Contact TimeSolv directly for detailed pricing information and to discuss the best plan for your firm.
  • Special pricing options available for non-profits and educational institutions. Reach out to the sales team to learn more about eligibility and discounted rates.

Clio - Manage Day-to-Day Operations Effectively

Clio is a comprehensive legal practice management software designed to help law firms manage their day-to-day operations efficiently. Trusted by legal professionals worldwide, Clio offers a robust suite of features tailored specifically for law firms to streamline workflows and maximize productivity.

Clio's core features include case management, time and expense tracking, billing and invoicing, and financial management. The software allows you to manage every detail of your cases, track and assign tasks, and oversee client communications, ensuring all deadlines and tasks are met. Time tracking is seamless, allowing entries from various interfaces and supporting real-time tracking with a running-clock timer. Billing is simplified with customizable invoices and secure online payment processing via Clio Payments, which supports various payment methods including credit, debit, and eChecks.

Document management in Clio is powerful, with advanced automation to create and fill legal documents using reusable templates. Client engagement tools such as custom online intake forms, online scheduling, and a secure client portal help firms attract and onboard new clients efficiently. Clio also integrates with numerous third-party applications like Office 365, G Suite, QuickBooks, and Slack, enhancing its functionality and allowing firms to build a complete management platform.

Additional features include automated workflows, multilingual support, digital payments, and court filing. Clio's pricing plans are designed to meet the needs of various firms, starting with the EasyStart plan at $39 per user per month (billed annually). More advanced plans offer additional features, ensuring there's a suitable option for firms of all sizes. Overall, Clio's extensive features and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for law firms seeking a reliable and efficient practice management solution.

Benefits:

  • Streamlines legal practice management
  • Elevates case management and client communication
  • Saves time on billing and document automation

Simplified Pricing Information:

EasyStart Plan: $39 USD per user per month (billed annually) or $49 USD per user per month (billed monthly). Essentials Plan: $79 USD per user per month (billed annually) or $89 USD per user per month (billed monthly). Advanced Plan: $109 USD per user per month (billed annually) or $129 USD per user per month (billed monthly). This plan offers advanced features and can save you over 17% compared to monthly billing. Complete Plan: $139 USD per user per month (billed annually) or $159 USD per user per month (billed monthly). This plan includes all the features from the Advanced plan plus additional tools like Clio Grow, which helps manage client intake and firm growth.

Additional features and add-ons: Clio Grow: Included in the Complete plan, but can be added as an add-on to other plans. It helps manage client intake and grow the firm. Clio Accounting: Available as an add-on to manage and analyze transactions. Personal Injury: Simplifies the management of medical records, damages, and settlements. Available as an add-on. HIPAA Liability Protection: For storing and processing protected health information in compliance with HIPAA regulations. Available as an add-on. Clio Draft: Automates routine legal drafting with easy-to-fill templates and court forms. Available as an add-on.

Payment processing fees: eCheck Payments (US): 1% fee. Credit and Debit Card Payments (US): 2.95% fee, with 3.5% for American Express. Credit Card Payments (Canada): 2.95% fee.

Bill4Time - Simplify Your Legal Billing and Time Tracking

Bill4Time Time Tracking and Billing Software Bill4Time is a comprehensive time tracking and billing software designed specifically for law firms and other professional services. This robust tool ensures accurate time and expense tracking, helping firms capture lost revenue and maximize billable hours. With Bill4Time, users can manage their billing processes seamlessly through flexible options including hourly, flat-fee, and contingency billing. The software supports LEDES invoicing and provides customizable invoices, making it ideal for law firms and professional services that require tailored billing solutions. The software also includes a suite of project management tools, enabling users to oversee projects from start to finish. This feature includes tracking billed and non-billed time, attaching files, scheduling appointments, and maintaining a detailed audit trail of activities.

Bill4Time's trust accounting capabilities, such as IOLTA reconciliation, further enhance its suitability for legal practices by ensuring accurate management of client trust funds. Security is paramount, and Bill4Time employs strict security measures to protect user data. It offers 128-bit data encryption, daily off-site backups, and customizable user access permissions. Furthermore, integration with QuickBooks facilitates easy financial management, while the built-in report library provides valuable insights into firm productivity and billing efficiency. Bill4Time offers flexible pricing plans tailored to different needs. The Free Plan supports one user with limited clients and projects, while the Basic Plan at $19.99 per month extends capacity to two users, 20 clients, and 30 projects. For firms requiring unlimited clients and projects, the Pro Plan is available at $39.99 per user per month. Additionally, a 30-day free trial is available, allowing potential users to test the software before committing to a subscription. Praised for its user-friendly interface and effective billing functionalities, Bill4Time is a valuable tool for law firms and other professional services looking to streamline their operations and enhance their billing processes.

Benefits:

  • Streamlines time and expense tracking: Allows users to track time and expenses accurately from anywhere, at any time. This feature helps in capturing lost revenue by ensuring all billable time is recorded.
  • Elevates billing and invoicing quality: Offers flexible billing options, including hourly, flat-fee, and contingency billing. Users can define unlimited billing rates and customize invoices with terms, discounts, and fees. The software supports LEDES invoicing, which is particularly useful for law firms.
  • Saves time on project management: Provides tools for managing projects from start to finish. This includes tracking billed and non-billed time, notes, file attachments, appointments, deadlines, and an audit trail of all activities.
  • Enhances trust accounting: Includes trust accounting features, such as IOLTA reconciliation, which helps firms manage client trust funds accurately.
  • Offers robust reporting: Provides a robust report library that allows users to view their firm’s billable time in various formats. This helps in quickly determining who is and isn’t billing their time.
  • Ensures security and data protection: Implements strict security settings to control user access and define which employees can access specific client files. The software uses 128-bit data encryption and provides daily off-site data backups.
  • Simplifies integration: Integrates with QuickBooks, making it easier to manage financial data. It also includes a filing cabinet feature for attaching files to any case.
  • Controls user access and permissions: Allows administrators to control who can perform specific actions within the system, ensuring that sensitive data is protected.
  • Facilitates client and project management: Enables easy management of clients and projects, including the ability to see everything related to a case or matter in one place.
  • Simplifies implementation and migration: The software is designed to be easy to implement, even for firms transitioning from other practice management systems. This makes it a viable option for law firms looking to streamline their billing and time tracking processes.
  • Offers mobile accessibility: While not explicitly mentioned, it is likely that Bill4Time offers mobile accessibility to allow users to track time and manage billing on the go.

Simplified Pricing Info

Free Plan: One user, three clients, five projects. It is free of charge. Basic Plan: $19.99 per month (two users, 20 clients, 30 projects). Pro Plan: $39.99 per user per month (unlimited clients and projects). 30-Day Free Trial: Available for testing the software before committing to a plan.

MyCase - Robust Legal Practice and Case Management Software

MyCase is a robust legal practice and case management software tailored to streamline the operations of law firms, particularly benefiting solo practitioners and small teams. With an array of features that cover case management, document management, communication tools, billing and invoicing, reporting and analytics, lead management, integration and collaboration, security, and accessibility, MyCase provides an all-encompassing solution for legal professionals.

MyCase is a comprehensive tool designed to meet the diverse needs of law firms by offering essential functionalities that simplify legal practice management. It integrates case and document management, enhances communication, facilitates billing, and ensures robust data security, all accessible from any device.

Benefits

  • Case Management: Manage cases from start to finish, tracking client interactions, case details, and related documents, covering the entire client lifecycle, from lead management to case closure.
  • Document Management: Centralized hub for document and contact management from any device with secure file sharing via a client portal, enhancing client communication and collaboration.
  • Communication Tools: Integrated 2-way text messaging and a client portal for centralized, secure client communication and file sharing.
  • Billing and Invoicing: Robust time tracking, centralized billing and invoicing, and integrated payments with MyCase Payments for easy and secure transaction processing.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Comprehensive reporting tools to track performance metrics, client interactions, and financial data enabling firms to make data-driven decisions.
  • Lead Management: Track prospective clients from initial contact through to signing, providing insights into areas for growth.
  • Integration and Collaboration: Integrates with various tools and platforms such as LawPay and CallRail, supporting team collaboration and better firm coordination.
  • Security: Bank-grade data protection ensures all client files and communications are secure, providing peace of mind for sensitive data.
  • Accessibility: Cloud-based platform allowing access from any device or computer, with mobile compatibility for Apple iOS, Android, and mobile web.

Simplified Pricing Information

  • Free Trial: MyCase offers a free trial for users to test the software’s features and functionality before committing to a purchase.
  • Pricing Plans: To obtain precise pricing details, visit the official MyCase website, contact their support via the website, or request a quote directly through their contact options. MyCase pricing is typically structured based on the features and the number of users. Evaluate the software during the free trial and discuss pricing plans with their sales team to determine the best plan for your law firm.

MyCase is an all-in-one solution designed to enhance efficiency, productivity, and client satisfaction by providing seamless administration, secure data management, and effective communication tools for legal professionals.

Benefits of Using Time and Billing Software for Attorneys

  • Improved Efficiency: Streamline administrative tasks, reduce manual data entry, and focus more on client-related activities.
  • Accurate Billing: Ensure precise time tracking and billing to capture all billable hours and eliminate disputes with clients.
  • Greater Productivity: Automate routine processes, allowing attorneys to manage their workloads more effectively and increase overall productivity.
  • Enhanced Client Satisfaction: Provide transparent invoicing and faster turnaround times, leading to higher client satisfaction and retention.
  • Comprehensive Reporting: Access detailed reports for better financial analysis and strategic planning to help grow your law firm.
  • Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly integrate with other essential tools and systems, such as practice management software, CRM, and accounting platforms.
  • Compliance and Security: Maintain compliance with industry regulations and safeguard sensitive client information with robust security features.
  • Customizable Features: Tailor the software to fit your firm’s specific needs and workflows, enhancing its effectiveness and usability.
  • Mobility and Accessibility: Access your time and billing information from anywhere, at any time, with cloud-based solutions and mobile apps.
  • Cost Savings: Reduce overhead costs associated with traditional billing methods and improve overall financial management.
  • Scalability: Easily scale the software as your law firm grows, accommodating increasing numbers of users and clients without disruption.
  • User-friendly Interface: Benefit from an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface that minimizes learning curves and boosts user adoption.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Facilitate better collaboration among team members with centralized data and communication tools.
  • Improved Cash Flow Management: Optimize billing cycles and expedite payments, improving cash flow and financial stability for the firm.
  • Client Portal Access: Offer clients the convenience of a secure portal to view invoices, payments, and time logs, enhancing transparency and trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is time and billing software for attorneys?

A: Time and billing software for attorneys is a specialized tool designed to help legal professionals manage and streamline their time tracking and billing processes. This type of software allows attorneys to efficiently track billable hours, generate invoices, manage client accounts, and ensure accurate billing. It often includes features like time entry, expense tracking, billing rate management, and integration with accounting systems.

Q: Why is time and billing software important for attorneys?

A: Time and billing software is crucial for attorneys as it helps improve accuracy and efficiency in tracking billable hours, invoicing clients, and managing financial records. It reduces the risk of errors, saves time on administrative tasks, ensures timely and accurate billing, and ultimately aids in maximizing profitability. Additionally, it provides a structured and transparent system for handling client billing, which can enhance client satisfaction and trust.

Q: What features should I look for in the best time and billing software for attorneys?

A: When selecting time and billing software for attorneys, look for features such as:

  • Easy time tracking and entry
  • Expense management
  • Customizable billing rates
  • Invoice creation and management
  • Integration with existing accounting software
  • Reporting and analytics
  • Client portals for viewing and paying bills
  • Secure cloud-based access
  • Mobile app functionality
  • Compliance with legal billing practices and standards

Q: How can time and billing software improve my law firm's productivity?

A: Time and billing software can significantly enhance your law firm's productivity by automating time-consuming administrative tasks. It streamlines time tracking, simplifies billing processes, and provides clear financial insights, allowing attorneys to focus more on legal work rather than administrative duties. The software's analytical tools can offer valuable insights into time management and resource allocation, enabling better decision-making and more efficient use of time and resources.

Q: Can time and billing software integrate with my current legal practice management system?

A: Yes, most modern time and billing software solutions can integrate with leading legal practice management systems. Integration capabilities ensure seamless data flow between your firm's existing systems and the new time and billing software, reducing duplication of effort and maintaining consistency in your records. When selecting software, verify compatibility and integration options with your current systems to ensure a smooth transition and better overall efficiency.

Q: Is it necessary for the time and billing software to be cloud-based?

A: While it is not strictly necessary, cloud-based time and billing software offers several advantages. Cloud-based solutions provide easy access from anywhere, at any time, and on any device, which is particularly beneficial for attorneys who often work remotely or need to access their billing information while on the go. Additionally, cloud-based software typically includes automatic updates, data backups, and enhanced security measures, ensuring your firm operates with the latest technology and safeguarded data.

Q: How much does time and billing software for attorneys typically cost?

A: The cost of time and billing software for attorneys can vary widely based on factors such as features, scalability, and the number of users. Prices can range from $20 to $50 per user per month for basic plans, with more advanced or comprehensive solutions costing $100 or more per user per month. Some software providers also offer tiered pricing models or discounts for annual commitments. It's essential to evaluate your firm’s specific needs and budget to select the most cost-effective and beneficial option.

Q: How do I choose the best time and billing software for my law firm?

A: When choosing the best time and billing software for your law firm, consider the following steps:

  1. Assess your firm’s specific needs and workflow requirements.
  2. Identify essential features and functionalities.
  3. Research and compare different software options.
  4. Take advantage of free trials or demonstrations.
  5. Read reviews and seek recommendations from other legal professionals.
  6. Evaluate the software’s ease of use and support services.
  7. Ensure compatibility and integration with your existing systems.
  8. Consider the pricing and any long-term commitments.

By thoroughly evaluating your options and involving key stakeholders in the decision-making process, you can select a time and billing software that effectively meets your firm’s needs and enhances its operational efficiency.

Written by Alec Chambers

Hi! I'm the creator behind ToolsForHumans. My journey, ignited by an obsession with ChatGPT after witnessing the practical applications of the tool, quickly expanded to include the launch of this site and a deep dive into more than 90 AI apps.

Over the past 8 months, I've been diligently crafting use cases and producing tutorial videos with the goal of demystifying AI and making it accessible to everyone. Alongside this, I've assembled specialized business toolkits, carefully selecting the best tools specifically tailored to various professions and industries.

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn, and if you're feeling particularly generous, giving our company page a follow. I'm always up for a chat!