London law firm Forsters chooses 3E and eBillingHub
Elite | Resource | 12 March 2024
London law firm Forsters has selected the market-leading financial and practice management solution 3E from Elite as a foundational technology component of its wider ”true cloud” SaaS strategy. In addition, the firm is poised to adapt its billing processes through the adoption of eBillingHub, the world’s leading e-billing solution for law firms.
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Fulcrum GT named finalist for three 2024 leaders in tech law award
Fulcrum Global Technologies | Resource | 6 December 2023
Fulcrum GT, provider of the leading digital business platform for legal and professional services firms with solutions spanning new business intake to practice management to e-billing and more, is proud to announce it has been named a finalist in three provider categories for the fourth annual Legalweek Leaders in Tech Law Awards.
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Integrity matters: exploring transparency in modern legal practice with Advanced
Advanced Legal | Resource | 9 October 2023
Integrity is important to law firms, and clients are often sceptical to trust firms as well. As such, the importance of transparency in legal proceedings and client relationships is vital with financial dealings of law firms the most critical area for scrutiny. In this article, we delve into the significance of transparency in finances within law firms, and explore methods for enhancing transparency, and weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks of not adhering to these principles.
Transparency serves as a cornerstone of trust in any professional relationship, and this holds particularly true in the legal industry. As clients place their legal matters and financial resources in the hands of law firms, they expect a high level of clarity and openness in all financial transactions. However, the legal industry has historically been criticised for its opacity in billing practices, making it difficult for clients to understand the value they receive for the fees they pay.
This is despite steps firms take to outline their position. Engagement letters will outline costs to clients, but potentially only hourly rates and projections, with a guide estimate potentially the only thing that clients can go to set their expectations. Something that can come crashing down if the matter is complex.
Law firms can take proactive steps to enhance transparency in their financial dealings and client interactions, ultimately bolstering trust and integrity. Regular updates on fees and expenses should be communicated to clients as well. By providing itemised invoices that clearly outline the services rendered, time spent, and expenses incurred, you are empowering your clients to understand the value of the legal services they receive and minimises the chances of surprises.
Embracing technology can streamline communication and transparency. Client portals can offer real-time access to case updates, billable hours, and expenses. Regular communication through emails, phone calls, or virtual meetings keeps clients informed about the progress of their cases.
While hourly billing remains common, law firms can explore alternative fee arrangements such as flat fees, contingent fees, or hybrid models. These arrangements can increase transparency by aligning the firm’s interests with the client’s goals.
The importance of transparency
Transparent billing practices foster trust and client satisfaction. When clients understand what they’re paying for, they are more likely to appreciate the value of the services rendered. Detailed invoices and open communication minimise the potential for billing disputes, leading to a smoother attorney-client relationship and improved overall experience.
Law firms that prioritise transparency can distinguish themselves in the market. Clients are more likely to choose firms that offer clear, transparent billing practices over those that don’t.
Conversely, a lack of transparency in billing processes can have several negative repercussions. Clients who feel deceived or surprised by unexpected charges are likely to lose trust in the law firm, leading to dissatisfaction and potentially creating brand detractors. In today’s digital age, a single dissatisfied client can share their negative experience online that is seen by anyone searching for more information on your firm, tarnishing the law firm’s reputation and potentially affecting future client acquisition.
Operating with non-transparent billing practices may also raise ethical concerns, damaging the law firm’s professional credibility. The loss of client trust can lead to delays with payments, disputes raised, and invoice actualisation reduced. Ultimately, a lack of transparency could lead to less customers and less revenue.
Transparency in financial matters is a vital component of modern legal practice that underscores integrity, trust, and ethical conduct. Law firms that embrace transparent billing practices and open communication stand to gain not only in terms of client relationships but also in terms of their reputation and competitiveness.
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Fulcrum GT recognised on the 2023 Inc. 5000
Fulcrum Global Technologies | Resource | 10 September 2023
Inc. revealed today that Fulcrum GT, provider of the leading digital business platform for legal and professional services firms, Snap Direct, ranks No. 2417 on the 2023 Inc. 5000, its annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.
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