Top Tools Used by Legal Assistants in Legal Research

Legal Assistants are essential to the smooth operation of any legal office, and their effectiveness often depends on the tools they use. From legal research and document preparation to scheduling and communication, a wide array of software and resources helps Legal Assistants streamline workflows and support attorneys with accuracy and efficiency. Mastering these tools not only enhances productivity but also contributes to the overall success of legal teams.

1. Legal Research Platforms

Research is a foundational part of any legal task, and Legal Assistants rely on trusted platforms to find laws, case precedents, and regulations. Common tools include:

• Westlaw: Offers comprehensive access to statutes, case law, legal encyclopedias, and KeyCite citation tracking.
• Lexis+ (formerly LexisNexis): Includes Shepard’s Citations and advanced search filters for case validation and legal interpretation.
• Fastcase: An affordable alternative for searching state and federal law, often provided through bar association memberships.
• Casetext: Uses AI to streamline research by suggesting relevant authorities based on uploaded documents.

These platforms help Legal Assistants ensure the documents they support are based on current and applicable law.

2. Document Creation and Management Tools

Legal Assistants are responsible for drafting, formatting, and organizing legal documents. Useful tools include:

• Microsoft Word: Still the industry standard for legal drafting, especially when used with legal templates and formatting macros.
• Adobe Acrobat Pro: For creating, editing, and securely sharing PDF documents, including redactions and e-signatures.
• HotDocs or Woodpecker: Document automation tools that simplify the creation of standard legal forms and contracts.
• iManage or NetDocuments: Used in larger firms for secure document storage, retrieval, and collaboration.

Efficiency in document handling saves time and minimizes errors, especially when managing multiple active cases.

3. Case and Practice Management Software

These platforms help Legal Assistants stay organized and ensure attorneys are prepared. Popular options include:

• Clio: A cloud-based system that manages client information, case files, billing, and deadlines in one interface.
• MyCase: Offers time tracking, client communication tools, and document management features.
• PracticePanther: Known for automation features, billing integrations, and legal CRM functionality.

These systems are essential for keeping tasks on schedule and centralizing case materials for team collaboration.

4. Legal Citation and Formatting Tools

Accuracy in legal writing and formatting is non-negotiable. Legal Assistants use:

• The Bluebook: A citation guide for legal documents, often used with companion software for faster formatting.
• PerfectIt or Grammarly: Assists with grammar, consistency, and tone in legal correspondence and filings.
• WordRake: Helps refine legal writing by improving clarity and conciseness in Word documents.

These tools help ensure documents meet professional standards and court requirements.

5. Scheduling and Communication Tools

Legal Assistants often manage attorney calendars and client appointments. Helpful tools include:

• Outlook or Google Calendar: For coordinating meetings, hearings, and filing deadlines.
• Calendly: Enables clients and colleagues to schedule appointments without back-and-forth emails.
• Slack or Microsoft Teams: Used for internal firm communication and document sharing.

Staying on top of time-sensitive tasks is crucial in a legal environment where deadlines are strict.

6. Free Legal Research Resources

In addition to premium databases, Legal Assistants also use free resources for legal research:

• Google Scholar: Provides access to court opinions and legal journal articles.
• Cornell Legal Information Institute (LII): Offers free access to federal and state laws and legal dictionaries.
• Justia and FindLaw: Helpful for quick statute lookups and basic legal guides.

These platforms are excellent supplements to subscription-based tools and useful for budget-conscious organizations.

Conclusion

The tools Legal Assistants use directly impact their effectiveness and the overall productivity of legal teams. From research and writing to document management and scheduling, mastering these platforms helps Legal Assistants deliver reliable, timely, and high-quality work. As legal technology continues to evolve, staying current with the latest tools will be essential for thriving in the modern legal workplace.