Have you ever invested in software that promised the world, but delivered chaos? If your team avoids the software you bought, or you’re not seeing clear ROI, it’s time to reassess.
Legal tech evaluation isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential for your firm’s growth, efficiency, and sanity. Read 8 Figure Firm’s blog to learn what questions to ask before buying software for your firm. (6 min. Read.)
Why Legal Tech Evaluation Matters
Technology can be your firm’s greatest asset—or its biggest headache. Tools that don’t integrate, go unused, or solve the wrong problems don’t just waste money—they erode your team’s trust in leadership and slow down client delivery.
Legal tech evaluation ensures that your investment isn’t based on hype, but on strategy. It’s about asking the right questions before you commit, so you only bring in tools that align with your workflows, team needs, and growth goals.
Smart firms don’t just buy software—they evaluate it with intention.
The 5 Questions to Guide Any Legal Tech Evaluation
1. Will This Integrate With My Current Tools?
One of the biggest reasons legal tech fails? It doesn’t play well with your existing systems.
Before buying, ask if the software integrates with your case management, billing, document storage, or CRM tools. A great product on its own can still create friction if it requires duplicate data entry or forces your team to juggle platforms.
Actionable tip: Prioritize tools that offer APIs (Application Programming Interfaces)—which allow different programs to share data—or support platforms like Zapier, which connects apps without coding.
Tools with native syncing also reduce friction by automatically linking with popular platforms like Google Drive, Outlook, or Dropbox. Choosing tech that integrates seamlessly with your existing systems saves your team hours of manual work, prevents data silos, and boosts overall efficiency.
2. Does It Solve a Problem We Have?
Too many law firms buy tools because they sound impressive, not because they solve a real or existing issue. Legal tech evaluation should always begin by identifying your firm’s bottlenecks—whether it’s missed deadlines, client communication gaps, or billing inefficiencies.
Actionable tip: Poll your team before exploring any tech solutions.
Ask: “What task takes the most time and could be streamlined with automation?” This ensures you buy based on pain points, not vendor pitches.
3. Will My Team Use It?
Adoption is everything. The best tech fails if your staff avoids using it. If a platform is overly complex or feels like a burden, it will collect dust, no matter how powerful it is.
Actionable tip: During legal tech evaluation, involve end-users in demo calls and free trials.
Ask your team to test the tool and give feedback on usability. Prioritize platforms that provide user training, onboarding support, and intuitive interfaces. And don’t forget to continuously train your team in technology solutions.
4. What’s the ROI—Time or Revenue?
Every new tool should earn its keep. Whether it helps you close more cases, reduce administrative work, or improve client satisfaction, there should be a measurable return.
Actionable tip: Estimate how much time or money a tool will save over a month or quarter.
Compare that to its cost. This simple ROI lens keeps you grounded during legal tech evaluation, so you’re not swayed by shiny features.
5. Is There Support After Purchase?
Post-sale support often makes or breaks your experience. If things go wrong or your team has questions, fast and knowledgeable help matters.
Actionable tip: During your legal tech evaluation process, ask about onboarding timelines, user support channels, and response times.
Look for software providers with live chat, help centers, and dedicated account reps—not just automated responses.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
A flashy demo doesn’t guarantee a functional solution. Be cautious of:
Vague pricing or hidden fees – If a vendor can’t give you a clear cost breakdown, it’s a sign of future billing headaches.
Lack of law firm-specific features – Generic tools may not address the unique needs of your practice.
No real case studies or testimonials from firms like yours – You need proof that it works in environments similar to yours. Some sites offer user reviews, so take some time to do your research.
Overly pushy sales tactics – If you’re pressured to commit before understanding the tool fully, walk away.
Poor user experience in trials or demos – If it’s clunky now, it won’t improve once you buy.
No clear training or support plans – A great tool is useless without help in implementing it.
Low internal enthusiasm – If your team isn’t excited or sees the tool as a burden, adoption will be a struggle.
Legal tech evaluation is about avoiding long-term friction. A few hours of due diligence now can save you months of wasted time and thousands in sunk costs later.
Speak to the Experts
The right platform can transform how your firm operates, but only if it’s chosen with care. At 8 Figure Firm, we are committed to guiding your firm on this transformative journey and helping you succeed in the legal landscape. Our programs are designed to teach you how to transform how your firm operates.
Want help to implement these strategies in your firm? Schedule a consultation today and transform your law practice into a thriving business.
