Legal Technology Tools and Software
Expert-defined terms from the Specialist Certification in Legal Technology and Legal Operations course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Legal Technology Tools and Software Glossary #
Legal Technology Tools and Software Glossary
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Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especia… #
In the legal industry, AI is used for tasks such as legal research, contract analysis, and predicting case outcomes. It enables lawyers to work more efficiently by automating repetitive tasks and providing insights based on data analysis.
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Blockchain
Blockchain is a decentralized, distributed ledger technology that records transa… #
In legal technology, blockchain can be used for smart contracts, digital identity verification, and secure document management. It ensures transparency and immutability of legal records.
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Case Management Software
Case management software is a tool that helps legal professionals manage their c… #
It enables tracking of case progress, deadlines, and communication with clients. Examples of case management software include Clio, MyCase, and PracticePanther.
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Cloud Computing
Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services over the internet #
In the legal industry, cloud computing allows law firms to store data, access applications, and collaborate with clients securely from anywhere. It provides flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency for legal operations.
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Compliance Software
Compliance software helps organizations ensure that they are following regulator… #
In the legal field, compliance software assists in monitoring and managing compliance with laws, policies, and procedures. It reduces the risk of non-compliance and helps in audits and reporting.
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Contract Management Software
Contract management software is designed to streamline the creation, negotiation… #
It enables legal professionals to track contract deadlines, obligations, and revisions efficiently. Examples of contract management software include Concord, Agiloft, and ContractWorks.
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Document Automation
Document automation is a technology that enables the creation of documents using… #
In legal practice, document automation saves time and reduces errors in drafting legal documents such as contracts, agreements, and pleadings. It ensures consistency and compliance with legal standards.
8. E #
Discovery Software
E-discovery software is used to identify, collect, and analyze electronic data f… #
It helps lawyers search, review, and produce relevant documents and information during litigation or investigations. E-discovery software includes features like data processing, document review, and predictive coding.
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Legal Project Management Software
Legal project management software helps law firms and legal departments plan, tr… #
It enables task management, budgeting, resource allocation, and collaboration among team members. Examples of legal project management software include LexisNexis CounselLink and BigHand.
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Machine Learning
Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence that enables computers t… #
In the legal domain, machine learning algorithms are used for legal research, contract analysis, and predicting case outcomes. It enhances decision-making and efficiency in legal tasks.
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Practice Management Software
Practice management software is designed to help law firms organize their day #
to-day operations, including client management, billing, time tracking, and scheduling. It centralizes administrative tasks and enhances productivity for legal professionals. Examples of practice management software include MyCase, Clio, and Rocket Matter.
12 #
Regulatory Technology (RegTech)
Regulatory technology, or RegTech, refers to the use of technology to facilitate… #
RegTech solutions help law firms and legal departments automate compliance processes, monitor regulatory changes, and mitigate risks effectively. It improves regulatory reporting and governance.
13 #
Virtual Data Room (VDR)
A virtual data room is a secure online repository for storing and sharing confid… #
VDRs enable authorized users to access and collaborate on sensitive information while maintaining control over document access and permissions. Examples of VDR providers include Intralinks, Merrill Datasite, and Firmex.
14 #
Workflow Automation
Workflow automation involves the use of technology to streamline and automate re… #
It helps legal professionals eliminate manual interventions, reduce errors, and increase efficiency in tasks such as document review, contract management, and billing. Workflow automation tools include Zapier, Integromat, and Microsoft Power Automate.
15 #
Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics uses statistical algorithms and machine learning techniques… #
In the legal field, predictive analytics can be used to forecast case outcomes, identify trends in legal disputes, and optimize legal strategies. It enables lawyers to make data-driven decisions and mitigate risks effectively.
16 #
Digital Signature
A digital signature is a cryptographic technique used to authenticate the identi… #
In legal transactions, digital signatures are legally binding and provide a secure way to sign contracts, agreements, and other legal documents online. They offer authenticity, non-repudiation, and compliance with e-signature laws.
17 #
Knowledge Management Software
Knowledge management software helps law firms and legal departments capture, org… #
It enables storing and retrieving legal documents, precedents, expertise, and best practices for future reference. Knowledge management software enhances collaboration, decision-making, and efficiency in legal workflows.
18 #
Legal Research Platforms
Legal research platforms are online tools that provide access to legal databases… #
These platforms help lawyers find relevant information, analyze legal issues, and support arguments in legal proceedings. Examples of legal research platforms include Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Bloomberg Law.
19 #
Data Privacy Software
Data privacy software helps organizations protect sensitive information and comp… #
In the legal sector, data privacy software assists in managing data breaches, conducting privacy assessments, and implementing data security measures. It ensures confidentiality, integrity, and compliance with privacy laws.
20 #
Legal Billing Software
Legal billing software enables law firms to track time, generate invoices, and m… #
It helps lawyers capture billable hours, expenses, and client payments accurately. Legal billing software integrates with practice management systems to streamline financial operations and improve revenue management. Examples of legal billing software include TimeSolv, Bill4Time, and CosmoLex.
21 #
Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM)
The Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM) is a framework that outlines the… #
The EDRM includes identification, preservation, collection, processing, review, analysis, and production of electronic data. It provides a structured approach to managing electronic evidence and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
22 #
Data Analytics
Data analytics involves the use of statistical analysis and data mining techniqu… #
In the legal domain, data analytics can be used to analyze case data, track legal trends, and measure performance metrics. It enables lawyers to make informed decisions, optimize strategies, and enhance legal services.
23 #
Legal Document Management System (DMS)
A legal document management system (DMS) is a software platform that helps law f… #
It provides version control, access controls, metadata tagging, and search capabilities for managing documents efficiently. Legal DMS enhances document collaboration, compliance, and information governance.
24 #
Knowledge Graph
A knowledge graph is a data structure that represents relationships between enti… #
In legal technology, knowledge graphs can be used to organize legal knowledge, connect legal concepts, and facilitate legal research. They enable visualizing complex legal data, exploring legal connections, and enhancing decision-making in legal practice.
25 #
Legal Hold Software
Legal hold software helps organizations preserve and manage electronic data that… #
It enables issuing legal holds, tracking custodians, and ensuring data preservation according to legal requirements. Legal hold software helps prevent spoliation of evidence and supports defensible data retention practices.
26 #
Data Security Software
Data security software helps organizations protect sensitive data from unauthori… #
In the legal sector, data security software assists in encrypting data, monitoring access, and detecting anomalies in data usage. It ensures confidentiality, integrity, and availability of legal information and systems.
27 #
Legal Chatbots
Legal chatbots are AI #
powered virtual assistants that can interact with users, answer legal questions, and provide information on legal topics. Chatbots can be used on law firm websites, messaging platforms, and mobile apps to offer instant support to clients and streamline client intake processes. They enhance customer service, engagement, and efficiency in legal interactions.
28 #
Matter Management Software
Matter management software helps law firms and legal departments organize and tr… #
It enables managing matter details, deadlines, tasks, and documents in a centralized system. Matter management software enhances collaboration, visibility, and accountability in legal workstreams. Examples of matter management software include Legal Files, Mitratech, and SimpleLegal.
29 #
Legal Analytics
Legal analytics involves the use of data analysis and visualization tools to ext… #
It can help lawyers assess case strategies, evaluate judge and opponent behaviors, and optimize legal decision-making. Legal analytics tools provide data-driven insights, trends, and metrics to support legal research and practice.
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Client Portal
31 #
Legal Risk Management Software
Legal risk management software helps organizations identify, assess, and mitigat… #
It enables tracking risks, evaluating controls, and implementing risk mitigation strategies effectively. Legal risk management software enhances regulatory compliance, governance, and decision-making in legal operations.
32 #
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Natural language processing (NLP) is a branch of AI that focuses on the interact… #
In the legal field, NLP is used for tasks such as contract analysis, legal research, and document review. It enables machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language, improving efficiency and accuracy in legal tasks.
33 #
Legal Practice Automation
Legal practice automation involves the use of technology to streamline and autom… #
It helps law firms reduce manual work, increase productivity, and deliver legal services more efficiently. Legal practice automation tools can include document assembly, workflow automation, and client intake automation solutions.
34 #
Matter Intake Software
Matter intake software helps law firms manage and streamline the process of onbo… #
It enables capturing client information, conflict checks, engagement letters, and matter setup efficiently. Matter intake software enhances client intake, risk management, and compliance with regulatory requirements in legal practice.
35 #
Legal Chat Platforms
Legal chat platforms are messaging tools designed for secure communication withi… #
They enable real-time messaging, file sharing, and collaboration on legal matters. Legal chat platforms help lawyers communicate effectively, exchange information securely, and streamline internal and external communication in legal operations.
36 #
Legal Knowledge Graph
A legal knowledge graph is a structured representation of legal knowledge, conce… #
It helps legal professionals visualize legal data, analyze legal connections, and discover insights for legal research and decision-making. Legal knowledge graphs enhance knowledge management, legal research, and semantic understanding in the legal domain.
37 #
Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO)
Legal process outsourcing (LPO) involves the delegation of legal tasks and proce… #
LPO services can include document review, legal research, contract drafting, and administrative support. It allows law firms to focus on core legal activities while leveraging external expertise and resources.
38 #
Legal Tech Accelerator
A legal tech accelerator is a program that supports and invests in early #
stage legal technology startups to help them develop and scale their products. Accelerators provide mentorship, funding, networking opportunities, and access to legal industry experts. They foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration in the legal technology ecosystem.
39 #
Legal Operations Software
Legal operations software helps legal departments manage their internal operatio… #
It includes tools for matter management, spend management, contract management, and reporting. Legal operations software enables legal departments to streamline workflows, optimize resources, and improve performance in legal operations.
40 #
Legal Research Tools
Legal research tools are online resources that provide access to case law, statu… #
These tools help lawyers conduct comprehensive legal research, analyze legal issues, and support legal arguments. Examples of legal research tools include Fastcase, Casemaker, and Ravel Law.
41 #
Legal Data Analytics
Legal data analytics involves the use of data analysis techniques to extract ins… #
It can help lawyers identify trends, assess risks, and predict case outcomes based on data patterns. Legal data analytics tools provide visualizations, metrics, and reports to support legal research and strategy.
42 #
Legal Document Automation
Legal document automation is a technology that enables the creation of legal doc… #
It helps lawyers generate contracts, agreements, and other legal documents quickly and accurately. Legal document automation reduces manual work, errors, and turnaround time in document drafting, enhancing productivity and consistency in legal practice.
43 #
Legal Entity Management Software
Legal entity management software helps organizations manage corporate entities,… #
It enables tracking entity data, documents, ownership, and regulatory filings in a centralized platform. Legal entity management software enhances transparency, compliance, and risk management for corporate legal operations.
44 #
Legal Research Platforms
Legal research platforms are online tools that provide access to legal databases… #
These platforms help lawyers find relevant information, analyze legal issues, and support arguments in legal proceedings. Examples of legal research platforms include Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Bloomberg Law.
45 #
Legal Tech Incubator
A legal tech incubator is a program that supports early #
stage legal technology startups by providing resources, mentorship, and workspace to help them grow and succeed. Incubators offer guidance, funding, and networking opportunities to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the legal technology sector. They facilitate collaboration, experimentation, and development of new legal tech solutions.
46 #
Legal Spend Management Software
Legal spend management software helps organizations track, analyze, and optimize… #
It enables monitoring legal costs, invoices, outside counsel spend, and matter budgets in real time. Legal spend management software enhances financial control, cost visibility, and decision-making in legal operations.
47 #
Legal Data Privacy Software
Legal data privacy software helps organizations protect sensitive information, c… #
It includes tools for data encryption, access controls, data mapping, and compliance monitoring. Legal data privacy software ensures data security, privacy compliance, and risk mitigation in legal operations.
48 #
Legal Document Collaboration
Legal document collaboration tools enable multiple users to edit, review, and sh… #
They provide version control, commenting, and tracking features to streamline document collaboration among legal teams, clients, and external parties. Legal document collaboration tools enhance communication, productivity, and efficiency in legal workflows.
49 #
Legal Entity Compliance Software
Legal entity compliance software helps organizations monitor and manage complian… #
It enables tracking compliance deadlines, tasks, and documents for multiple entities in a centralized system. Legal entity compliance software enhances transparency, governance, and risk management for corporate legal operations.
50 #
Legal Tech Marketplace
A legal tech marketplace is an online platform that connects legal professionals… #
It provides a centralized hub for discovering, comparing, and purchasing legal tech solutions for various legal needs. Legal tech marketplaces facilitate access to innovative tools, resources, and expertise in the legal technology ecosystem.