If you’re a solo and starting to create a paperless practice you can get by with using the file-organization system built into your computer. And you can use the simple file-naming system to automatically organize documents.

But if you’re serious about having a smooth-running paperless practice you should invest in document management system software (i.e. “DMS”). The cloud-based versions are your best option, and they are very affordable now (with prices dropping steadily).

When you use a DMS you’ll avoid chaos like mis-filed information, improperly accessed information, and security breaches. A DMS will integrate easily with your word processing and other commonly used programs—including email.

If you want to learn more about creating a paperless law practice, click this link for a special discount on my online course: Paperless Lawyering.

Recommended Articles

General Resources

Thanks to Our Sponsors

SweetProcess is a great way to document your important workflows. Doing so will help make your practice run more smoothly, and require less involvement on your part to keep things running smoothly.
The best way to understand how SweetProcess will help streamline your firm is to start using it. The company offers a 14-day free trial, but as a loyal listener of this podcast, you can try it for 28-days free of charge. And you don’t even have to enter a credit card to get started.
Just navigate to SweetProcess.com/ernie to start your 28-day free trial today.
And thanks to the other sponsor of this podcast…
Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai you’re actually hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.
If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.
Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

EPISODE CREDITS:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.
He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.
Find out more at EmeraldCity Pro

Show notes
  • Simple folders are okay for a solo lawyer on a tight budget
  • But you should plan to transition as soon as possible to a full-featured, dedicated document management system.
  • Using Dropbox, Microsoft One Drive and Google Drive aren’t the best choice for most lawyers.
  • Netdocuments and Uptime Legal are two reputable cloud-based DMS software options for lawyers.
  • Hire a consultant to help you assess options if you don’t feel comfortable doing research on your own.

P.S. If you want my Ultimate Guide to Technology for Lawyers click here.