15 Best Case Management Software for 2025

Worldwide, litigation has increased and is expected to continue doing so in the near future. As more and more cases are taken on with more lives, reputations, and revenue on the line, legal firms are constantly looking for ways to streamline their workflows and increase the accuracy of case and evidence analysis in preparing legal briefs and research on precedents and case examples to help their clients.

Case management software can help firms do these. The legal case management software market size globally was worth $0.776 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow to $1.91 billion by 2028 with a steady growth rate of 12.4% CAGR from 2021 to 2028 (Yahoo! Finance, 2023a). Pairing these legal software packages with the best workforce management software may lead to more productivity.

Utilizing the latest available statistics and data, our expert team at Research.com has compiled the latest recommended case management software for law firm activities, citing their best functionalities and how they can best help legal firms manage their cases.

Case management software popularity has increased dramatically over the years as shown by the following statistics:

• In 2023, U.S. law firms had a total revenue of $397.1 billion while employing 1 million in about 450,00 businesses; total wages are estimated at $147.4 billion (IBISWorld, 2023).
• The 2022 global legal AI software market reached $680.2 million (Yahoo! Finance, 2023b).

• 83% of surveyed law firms stated that document management functions of software and apps had a moderate to high impact on their work (Statista, 2023).
• 76% of these surveyed firms mentioned financial management tools (ERP) as the tools with the highest impact (Statista, 2023).
• 74% cited that time and expense management technologies had the highest impact on their legal profession (Statista, 2023).
• The global legal AI software market is expected to reach $2.576 billion by 2028 (Yahoo! Finance, 2023b).
• Global market growth of legal AI software is estimated to be at a CAGR of 24.9% from 2022 to 2028 (Yahoo! Finance, 2023b).

• For the year 2022, the highest revenue per lawyer among U.S. legal firms was Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, earning $3.54 million per lawyer followed by Sullivan and Cromwell at $2.14 million per lawyer (Statista, 2023c).
• The projected CAGR for global data volumes is 26%, a data explosion described as the juncture when the amount of data created over the next three years will exceed that created over the past 30 years (NASDAQ, 2021).
• The iPhone is the most popular phone used by lawyers for work at 80%, followed by Android phones at 19%. 2% do not use their phone for work, and Blackberry usage has gone down to 0% (American Bar Association, 2022).
• In 2020, the legal case management software market size globally was valued at $0.776 billion and is forecast to increase up to $1.91 billion by 2028, with an expected steady growth rate of 12.4% CAGR from 2021 to 2028 (Yahoo! Finance, 2023a).

For law firms to have improved efficiency, productivity, and profitability, they need to keep abreast with industry and software technology. With the increasing complexity of cases, increased competition between plaintiffs and defendants, the growing knowledge base of court rulings and case dockets, and multiple differences in legal systems and rulings in different countries, case management software is essential to a firm’s success. The following trends have been observed in developments in the software and in the legal industry:

1. Real-time case database updates. More case sentencing and rulings data, case filings, official policy changes in government institutions and private or public companies, legal changes in international law, and other types of legal information can be automatically obtained online and incorporated into the law firm’s internal case databases. This ensures real-time utilization and analysis of data as they come in, improving the chances of winning one’s cases.
2. Artificial Intelligence Assistance. AI is very useful in accurately summarizing legal information from multiple documents and data sources to provide quick and current answers to specific legal questions that may arise during trials. It is also useful in classifying text as useful or not in a given case, extracting keywords for further research and grouping, and creating basic drafts for writing legal opinions and responses.
3. Time and billing management. Automated tracking of billable hours and performing client billings are all incorporated into the software. Types of work can be customized according to pricing tiers, applying discounts and informing clients directly automatically. Contractor accounting software can also be used here, but integrated apps are much better.
4. Automated Document Management and Document Assembly. Document management and assembly from a central repository for all case documents, including emails, letters, news articles, contracts, court filings, audio recordings, crime scene photos, PDF files, and other forms of physical or digital media that may be used as evidence or counter-evidence saves time during the discovery process and throughout the trial. These are all accessible to all team members with the right access privileges, streamlining workflows and making document-related tasks efficient and consistent.
5. Collaborative and Remote Work. Attorneys and their teams can collaborate, access, and work on cases from remote locations as needed, especially for cases with active developments and new evidence discovery. Real-time discussion and case planning via cloud platforms facilitate quicker analysis and case buildup through live real-time updates. This is also useful for specialists in different practice areas to help each other with strategy and case planning for specific cases.
6. Integrated ERP Tools. ERP (Enterprise Resource Management) integrates HR, logistics, and accounting functions that can be viewed as a real-time snapshot at any time by executive management. This provides information that can be used for quick decision-making as cases and personnel are adjusted depending on case developments locally and worldwide. Such versatility and timely decisions can make or break a case and help avoid mistrials or drawn-out trials that cost more money the longer they go on.
7. Improved Client Communication Tools. Secure client portals allow attorneys to communicate directly with their clients, have quicker access to client information, inform their clients of changes in strategy and plans, and update clients with new case developments. Most platforms have secure mobile phone apps to facilitate these with text-only, voice, or video functionalities.
8. Task Management and Scheduling/ Calendaring Functions. Scheduling activities and tasks using a central calendar to highlight deadlines, hearings, meetings, and case discovery activities allows for keeping with tight deadlines and increases time efficiency. To-do lists of tasks and events are updated and relayed to team member assignees with the corresponding time and monetary resources allotted.
9. Cyber Insurance and Cyber Liability Coverage. Cloud-based platforms now include insurance coverage for cyber incidents and cyberattacks, making online legal hardware and software architectures more secure and reliable.

In a 2022 survey by the American Bar Association, the most common types of legal-specific software In U.S. law firms were software for conflict checking at 67%, case or practice management at 51%, docket or calendar rule-based software at 36%, and specialized practice software at 33% (American Bar Association, 2022) These figures indicate a growing demand for different software capabilities in most law firms, a trend that will only continue to grow.

The top U.S. states with the most lawyers in 2022 were New York at 187,246, California at 170,306, and Texas at 95,196 (American Bar Association, 2022). The other states’ number of lawyers is shown in the chart, and this gives you a good idea of where you would want to practice.

Also revealing are the sources of U.S Firms for legal news and research online. In 2021, the most used free sites such as government websites at 24%, Cornell’s Legal Information Institute also at 24%, FindLaw at 16%, and Google Scholar at 12%, among others (American Bar Association, 2022).

Law360 was the top preferred paid site at 39%, followed by the Wall Street Journal at 21%, Bloomberg Law News at 7%, Bloomberg News also at 7%, and Westlaw Today at 6%, among others (American Bar Association, 2022).

With numerous options available, selecting the most suitable case management software is critical for law firms to streamline their operations and improve productivity. Here are key factors to consider:

• Integration Capabilities. Ensure the software integrates smoothly with other essential tools, such as document management, ERP, and billing systems. Integration enhances efficiency by allowing data to flow seamlessly between systems, reducing manual entry.
• Data Security and Compliance. Given the sensitive nature of legal data, the software should comply with data protection laws (like GDPR) and have robust security measures, such as encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates.
• Customization and Scalability. Select a platform that can be tailored to your firm’s workflows and scales as your firm grows. Customizable features ensure that the software can adapt to your specific needs, practice areas, and team size.
• Ease of Use. User-friendly software with an intuitive interface minimizes the learning curve for your team, enhancing adoption and productivity. Features like drag-and-drop functionalities and dashboards also make case tracking and management easier.
• Automated Workflows. Look for software that offers automation for tasks like billing, document creation, and case updates. Automation reduces time spent on repetitive tasks, ensuring your team can focus on high-value work.
• Reporting and Analytics. Detailed reporting and analytics help law firms track case progress, monitor productivity, and identify bottlenecks. These insights are crucial for making informed decisions and improving efficiency.
• Customer Support and Training. Reliable customer support and comprehensive training resources are essential to help your team maximize the software's capabilities and troubleshoot issues effectively.

What Role Does Data Analytics Play in Enhancing Case Management Software?

The integration of data analytics with case management software is becoming increasingly important for law firms to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions. By leveraging a robust data analytics platform, legal professionals can analyze large amounts of data, identify trends, and optimize their case management strategies. This can lead to improved outcomes, increased efficiency, and enhanced client satisfaction. Furthermore, data analytics can help law firms to identify areas of improvement, streamline their workflows, and reduce costs. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the incorporation of data analytics into case management software is likely to play a crucial role in driving success and competitiveness for law firms.

Integration with Other Legal Technology Solutions

Integration with complementary legal technologies has become a game-changer for law firms striving to maximize efficiency and remain competitive in today's fast-evolving landscape. For instance, many modern case management software platforms now offer seamless integration with tools like e-discovery software, billing systems, and document automation platforms. Such integrations minimize the need for redundant data entry, enhance collaboration, and streamline workflows across multiple departments.

Additionally, integrating case management software with contract management software enables firms to optimize document handling processes, track contract lifecycles, and ensure compliance with legal obligations. By connecting these technologies, legal professionals can work smarter, not harder, thereby increasing accuracy and reducing the potential for errors. For more insights and recommendations, explore this carefully curated list of the best contract management software.

The rise of API functionalities also allows law firms to customize the interoperability of their selected case management software to reflect their unique workflows. This becomes particularly important as firms scale their operations and encounter new demands that require robust and flexible technology solutions.

The Future of Case Management Software

AI is becoming a more in-demand tool to help lawyers, law enforcement, and prosecutors in automated document analysis, text classification, topic analysis, and text extraction from relevant case rulings. It will also be useful in finding similarities and differences in international law settings and identifying loopholes and limitations that can be taken advantage of by criminals. Case management software for social services would benefit from these data.

Improvements in AR and VR will help in evidence management and chain of custody filings, especially with the help of some of the most awesome best evidence management software in the market.

Multiple databases and law enforcement and corrections facilities data analytics may become the building blocks for repealing, amending, or creating new laws to improve case resolution and the implementation of justice nationwide and globally. Having case management software free for nonprofits and individuals would be quite welcome.

Key Insights

• Growing Litigation and Case Management Needs: The increasing volume of litigation and the need for efficient case management has led to a significant rise in the use of case management software, with the market expected to grow from $0.776 billion in 2020 to $1.91 billion by 2028.
• Impact on Law Firms: Case management software is essential for law firms to streamline workflows, improve accuracy in case and evidence analysis, and enhance productivity, especially with the integration of AI and automated document management.
• Statistics and Trends: The U.S. legal industry had a total revenue of $397.1 billion in 2023, with a notable impact of document management (83%) and financial management tools (76%) on legal work. The legal AI software market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 24.9% from 2022 to 2028.
• Software Features and Trends: Key features of case management software include real-time case database updates, AI assistance, automated billing, document management, collaborative tools, ERP integration, and improved client communication.
• Top Case Management Software: Leading software includes Access Legal LegalEx, Filevine, CARET AbacusLaw, INSZoom, and CaseManagerPro, among others. Each offers unique features like automated workflows, secure client portals, comprehensive document management, and advanced analytics.

FAQ

1. What is case management software, and why is it important for law firms? Case management software helps law firms streamline their workflows, manage case information efficiently, and increase accuracy in case and evidence analysis. It is essential for handling the growing volume of litigation and improving overall productivity and profitability.
2. What are the expected market growth and trends for legal case management software? The legal case management software market is expected to grow from $0.776 billion in 2020 to $1.91 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 12.4% from 2021 to 2028. Trends include real-time case database updates, AI assistance, automated billing, and improved client communication.
3. How does AI integration benefit case management software? AI integration enhances case management software by providing accurate summaries of legal information, classifying useful text, extracting keywords for research, creating basic drafts for legal opinions, and automating routine tasks to save time and reduce human error.
4. What are some key features to look for in case management software? Important features include real-time case database updates, AI assistance, automated document management, collaborative tools, ERP integration, improved client communication, task management, scheduling functions, and cybersecurity measures.
5. Can case management software be used for industries other than law firms? Yes, case management software can be adapted for various industries, including healthcare, social services, and nonprofit organizations. It helps manage client information, streamline workflows, and improve efficiency in these sectors as well.
6. What are some top case management software options available? Some top options include Access Legal LegalEx, Filevine, CARET AbacusLaw, INSZoom, CaseManagerPro, Legal Files, DecisionVault, ALB Legal Software, Clio, MyCase, PracticePanther, Rocket Matter, LEAP, Smokeball, CASEpeer, and CaseFox.
7. How does automated document management benefit law firms? Automated document management saves time during the discovery process and throughout the trial by storing and organizing all case documents, including emails, letters, contracts, and court filings, in a central repository accessible to authorized team members.
8. What are the advantages of using collaborative tools in case management software? Collaborative tools enable attorneys and their teams to work on cases remotely, facilitating real-time discussions and case planning. This improves the speed and accuracy of case analysis and builds up, especially for cases with active developments and new evidence.
9. How can case management software improve client communication? Secure client portals and communication tools allow attorneys to update clients on case developments, strategy changes, and other important information quickly. This enhances transparency and client satisfaction.
10. What future advancements can be expected in case management software? Future advancements may include enhanced AI capabilities for automated document analysis, improved AR and VR tools for evidence management, and more comprehensive data analytics for legal research and case resolution.

References

• American Bar Association. (2022). TECHREPORT 2021 Solo & Small Firm. American Bar Association.
• American Bar Association. (2023). ABA Profile of the Legal Profession 2022.American Bar Association.
• IBISWorld. (2023). IBISWorld industry market research, reports, and statistics. IBISWorld.
• Nasdaq. (2021, October 11). Legal Technology: Why the Legal Tech Boom is Just Getting Started. Nasdaq.
• Statista. (2023a, February 14). Impact of different technologies in law firms worldwide 2020. Statista.
• Statista. (2023b, July 26). Revenue of the leading U.S. law firms 2015-2022. Statista.
• Statista. (2023c, July 27). Law firms in the U.S. with the highest revenue per lawyer 2022. Statista.
• Yahoo!Finance. (2023a). Legal Case Management Software Market Size to Hit $1.91 Billion, Globally, by 2028 with 12.4% of CAGR Comprehensive Report by The Insight Partners. Yahoo!Finance.
• Yahoo!Finance. (2023b). Legal AI Software Market Size 2023 with a CAGR of 24.9% : Latest Growth Rate, New Development, Market Segment, Sales & Revenue, Global Demand and Regional Outlook till Forecast Year 2030 Research Report. Yahoo!Finance.