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About Actionstep

Actionstep Review: Law Practice Management Software

actionstep law practice management software logo

Lawyerist Rating for Actionstep

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Rating Breakdown

Our Rating: 4.1/5

Our rating is based on our subjective judgment. Use our resources—including our rating and community ratings and reviews—to find the best fit for your firm.

Community Rating: 4.2/5 (based on 5 ratings)

The community rating is based on the average of the community reviews below.

Composite Rating: 4.1/5

The composite rating is a weighted average of our rating and the community ratings below.

4.1/5

Overview
Featured Rating

What is Actionstep?

Actionstep is cloud-based Law Practice Management Software (LPMS) for law firms with 1-50 users looking for an all-in-one product. Lawyers can use it to manage both front-of-house and back-of-house operations in one place. It covers everything from accounting and billing to email and document automation. Lawyers looking for a comprehensive all-in-one will want to give Actionstep a review.

Starting Cost: custom

Pros
  • True All-in-one
  • Cloud-based
  • Client Portal
Cons
  • Complex Initial Set-up
  • Not for Solos
  • Basic Templates
Overview
Featured Ratings

Actionstep Review: Law Practice Management Software Features

Customer Experience & Support

/5

Price & Value

/5

Security

/5

Innovation & Future-Proofing

/5

Overview
Featured Rating
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Actionstep Review: Law Practice Management Software Video

Compare with Other Law Practice Management Software Products Download the Field Guide

Product Details

Apps
  • Web
Installation
  • Cloud
Software Integrations
  • Box
  • Dropbox
  • Gmail
  • Google Drive
  • HotDocs
  • LawPay
  • Microsoft Office 365
  • NetDocuments
  • QuickBooks Online
  • Xero
  • Zapier
  • LawToolBox
  • Bundledocs
  • InfoTrack
  • Microsoft Office for Windows
  • HubSpot

Core Features

For Law Practice Management Software, the following are essential features, and you should therefore expect to see a check in every box in this section.

Yes
No

Case/Matter Management

Matter management is the defining feature of law practice management software, of course. However, some software is targeted at specific practice areas and may implement case management in different ways in order to manage information specific to those practice areas.

Client/Contact Management

Managing clients and other contacts is a core feature of law practice management software.

Task Management

Basic task management includes creating tasks with due dates that can be associated with cases/matters and assigned to different lawyers. Some products stick to pretty basic task management, while others offer enough features to make any Getting Things Done devotee happy.

Calendar

As with email, this feature means a full calendar client, not just an integration with Outlook or Google Calendar.

Timekeeping

Timekeeping is a core feature of practice management software, essential for lawyers who bill by the hour but useful even for those who don't.

Conflict Checking

An actual conflict checker is more than just a search box. This applies to software that actually has a conflict checking feature. Implementation varies, but at a minimum you should be able to search the entire database for matching names. It should check for conflicts accurately and intuitively, allow for a lateral hire to input their conflict database into the system, work quickly when new clients call, and comply with the rules of professional conduct for checking conflicts.

Email Client

Does it include a full email client? (Alternative solutions that don't amount to an email client, like plugins for Outlook or Gmail, do not earn a check for this feature. See software integrations, below.)

Text Messaging

Can you send and receive text messages and associate them with your matters?

Document Management

Basic document management allows you to add documents and associate them with your cases/matters.

Document Assembly

Loading your firm’s document templates into your law practice management software can save time and ensure consistency. This check means basic document assembly suitable for form letters, invoices, etc. For advanced document assembly, you’ll probably need additional software.

Secure Client Portal

Basic Bookkeeping

This means basic checkbook register–style bookkeeping, which is more limited than full accounting. You should be able to keep track of your operating accounts and reconcile your balances, but you may still need full accounting software.

Trust Accounting

This means you can track your client trust accounts, including expenses and payments. It is normal to see trust accounting without basic bookkeeping or full accounting, in which case you will need something else for accounting.

Full Accounting

Some software includes full double-entry accounting features, making additional accounting software unnecessary.

Billing & Invoicing

Does the software allow you to send bills or invoices?

Online Payments

Payment processing is increasingly offered either as an included or add-on feature, especially with cloud-based law practice management software.

Open API

Compare Actionstep Similar Products

Select another product to compare:

Actionstep

4.1/5

actionstep law practice management software logo
Pros
  • True All-in-one
  • Cloud-based
  • Client Portal
Cons
  • Complex Initial Set-up
  • Not for Solos
  • Basic Templates

MyCase

4.7/5

MyCase Logo
Pros
  • Cloud-based
  • Client Portal
  • Strong Task Management
Cons
  • Limited Intake
  • Simple Document Management
  • Lack of Integrations
Read MyCase Review

PracticePanther

4.7/5

practicepanther logo
Pros
  • Customizability
  • Intake
  • eSignature
Cons
  • Simple Document Management
  • Basic Templates
Read PracticePanther Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I use Actionstep?

The software is a cloud-based law practice management platform. As such, users can access it from any modern browser. They do have a mobile app, however, as of this review, Actionstep does not offer complete system access. The mobile app allows you to view contacts, matter information, and save Actionstep contacts to your phone.

What is the price of Actionstep?

As of this review, Actionstep offers 3 pricing tiers. Practice Pro, Practice Pro+ (which includes general ledger accounting), and Premier. You must contact the company for pricing. Interested users will also want to account for the price of implementation. This is not a platform that is set-up in one slow evening at the office.

Is Actionstep secure?

The platform uses SSL encryption to protect all data traveling to and from their software over the internet, they host data on Amazon Web Services systems, and they back-up client data automatically.

Does Actionstep integrate with Microsoft 365?

Yes. Actionstep has an add-in for Office 365 that helps users manage their files directly from their inbox, and work with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents. There are two add-ins; the newer one works on Windows and Mac. Lawyers can update file activity and notes, manage matter tasks, and even pull file information directly into an email.

Does Actionstep integrate with Google Workspace?

Yes. At the time of this review, Actionstep has Google Workspaces integration for Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive.

Can Actionstep handle my Trust Accounting?

Actionstep can manage all but the most complex trust accounting. Users can track funds across single or multiple clients, run extensive reports, and connect to the general ledger of the firm.

Can I accept online payments with Actionstep?

Actionstep, like most LPMS products, has a built-in ePayment platform that can handle the intricacies of lawyer trust account payments. Additionally, users who are already using other platforms can likely accept ePayments through its QuickBooks integration, or simply use another third-party app with payment links.

Does Actionstep integrate with Zapier?

Yes. The platform integrates directly with Zapier.

Can I automate documents with Actionstep?

Yes. Actionstep has a mail-merge style document automation function. This is likely powerful enough for most law practices.

Is Actionstep compatible with both PC and Mac?

Yes. As a cloud-based solution, the software is compatible with both PC and Mac computers. The Microsoft Office add-in is also cross-platform.

Additional Details about Actionstep

Accounting

Built-in Accounting

It’s rare to find built-in accounting software that can replace the application you’re currently using. Yet, with features like check printing, bank reconciliation, a general ledger function, user permissions, and LEDES support, Actionstep can, likely, do just that. More importantly for some, though, lawyers can easily take client payments, send bills (hourly or a fixed rate), track expenses, and a whole host of other necessary accounting right out of the system.

Trust Accounts

Actionstep’s accounting software also helps firms fully manage their trust accounts. Obviously, this is important to most lawyers. Its trust accounting tools, reports, and controls help you navigate strict rules and stay compliant.

Integrations

Unfortunately, not everyone can shift to different accounting software on a moment’s notice. A lawyer may, quite simply, be limited by what their accountant uses. As such, Actionstep also features integrations with both QuickBooks and Xero.

Communication

Secure Client Portal

The secure client portal allows lawyers to send secure documents to their clients, chat in real-time, provide limited access to client files, and more. Although it doesn’t appear that users can send text messages through the platform, this portal should obviate the need.

Email

When using the built-in email, each matter that is created has its own inbox and outbox. Which should help keep track of all correspondence within the matter. However, if a lawyer prefers using Gmail or Outlook, they can integrate their account to stay on top of file notes, tasks, documents, and more.

Document Management

Document management is built right into each matter, so users can save documents locally, and logically, within the matter file. This is as opposed to saving them in a separate document folder. Additionally, files are automatically backed up on Actionstep. However, for those who prefer to use a third party, the platform also integrates with Box, Dropbox, Google Drive, and NetDocuments.

Mobile App

Although the mobile app doesn’t grant full access to all of Actionstep’s features, users can track time, file notes, access matter details, and quickly see appointments.

Who Actionstep is for

Actionstep is a robust, comprehensive, cloud-based LPMS with many hard-to-find features. It boasts full accounting, a secure client portal, integrated email, and a highly organized document management system. It also has organization-wide workflows, and document automation that integrates with MS Word. Although it takes some setup commitment, it’s still likely a good fit for any small to medium-sized firm looking to simplify their tech stack.

Alternatively, though, since not everyone needs robust built-in features, some lawyers will find more than they need here. Additionally, it is not a platform that one generally sets up in an evening. As with most all-in-one platforms, users generally enlist the help of a set-up specialist.

Not sure where to begin? Download our Field Guide

Take the guesswork out of researching, purchasing, and implementing the right legal tech products and services for your law firm. Our Field Guide answers your essential questions and breaks down the features most important to your business, so you can buy with confidence.

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Actionstep Community Reviews

4.2

Based on 5 Ratings

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  • chris c. says:
    August 31, 2020 at 8:33 pm

    We are a very disappointed small firm.

    We are a small legal practice that focuses on Property and Property Conveyancing.
    I consider myself to be very computer-literate and I am proficient with most new technologies.
    By way of background, I have had the opportunity to use LEAP and Lexis Nexus (affinity) in the past.
    To cut to the chase, I strongly do not recommend Actionstep. I wish I was informed before I committed the implementation (cost is approx. $3000).
    Reasons:
    The lack of cohesion between :- 1. Actionstep (ie the software provider), -2. the separate company which implements the installation and maintenance; and – 3. The 3rd party add on providers (ie the conveyancing add on is done by a company called Konekta) is problematic and horrendous to navigate. This software is full of issues and there is no accountability by anyone.
    The add on providers are extremely difficult to deal with as the only way you can speak with someone is if you log onto their website, and then create a “Ticket” for a call back. This is poorly managed and I have had to wait days for assistance. Ultimately, this service wastes hours of my day and is costing us money.
    When issues arise, my experience was that each of the 3 before mentioned parties blame each other and then come up with excuses.
    There are no workable precedents in my field (conveyancing – I also pay $49 for the add on). I found errors in the documents and some documents are out of date (by a number of years – and versions). Very embarrassing and potentially dangerous.
    I’m sure this software would be beneficial for a large (100 people +) firm who wants a customizable program. However, if you are a small operation and do not have unlimited resources, you may want to steer clear of this software. I wish I did.
  • Amelia G. says:
    February 6, 2019 at 9:55 am

    Standout Software - We love ActionStep

    We are a 3 attorney elder law firm. Total of 15 employees. Actionstep has vastly improved our efficiency and has been the foundation of significant firm growth. The customizable features enable employees to communicate with one another and address clients’ needs while minimizing disruptions and reducing the tendency to “reinvent the wheel.” What we love: workflows can be customized for different types of matters. Tasks are automatically assigned to staff when a new matter is created and as major steps within the matter are completed. The case dashboard serves as a “one stop shop” for all essential info related to each matter, so even staff who are out of the loop know where to go to address clients’ inquiries and track down info. Contact records exist independently of matters but are linked to matters, so updates such as change of address or phone number are applied system-wide. Newsfeed-style case notes with tag options keep staff informed about new developments and make it easy to sort and search notes. Document folders create storage space for each matter that is consistent and easily searchable. The system integrates with MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook), enabling matter data to be merged into documents and e-mails and allowing users to assign e-mails from Outlook to matters in Actionstep. Calendar integration with Office 365 is also possible. Word and Excel templates with built-in merge fields are pre-populated in the document folders of each matter for fast and error-free document generation. Documents may be exchanged securely with clients and other interested parties via the secure portal , and access to the portal by outside parties may be fine-tuned. Support staff at ActionStep are accessible and friendly.
    The most challenging aspect of Actionstep is the initial setup. The program has powerful flexibility and customizable features but someone must do all the customizing unless you purchase an “add on” through the ActionStep marketplace. Customizing can be done in-house if you have a reliable, tech-savvy person and the ability to map out your workflows. If you don’t have time, tech savvy, or a clear sense of your workflow, it’s best to work with an Actionstep consultant to assist with the initial setup and data migration. Actionstep support staff are available to assist throughout the process of set up and migration. For our firm the end result has been well worth the initial investment of time and energy to set up the processes. We have highly increased productivity, and our attorneys can handle a larger caseload while delegating more effectively to support staff. We aren’t putting out fires and can take nice vacations.
  • Katherine T. says:
    January 7, 2019 at 11:28 am

    Robust and Adaptable!

    I run a small firm with staff who work remotely. I searched specifically for a program that would allow me to handle my front office (client and case management) and back office (financial accounting) needs, and this does the job. (I am a former CPA, so the accounting functionality was important for me.) We have been able to get our bills out more quickly and my bookkeeper loves it. The user interface is clean and the response rate is rapid. Information is so much easier to find in Actionstep than in the program we used before (PCLaw). The search function is powerful. The program is very adaptable to almost any type of practice.
  • Craig L. says:
    November 13, 2018 at 2:27 pm

    Great for Specialty Firms

    My practice consists of Real Estate and Collections. It does not fall within a general “litigation” program. Actionstep allows the user to create a flowchart with step-by-step guidance for any variety of cases. Perfect for foreclosures, bankruptcies, etc. Customer service is great from start to finish and the price can’t be beat!
  • Julie K. says:
    November 6, 2018 at 8:12 am

    Easy & User Friendly

    We have had Actionstep at my firm for over 2 years now. I started right after they made the switch to AS. I was able to learn the program very quick. I have taught multiple interns and new employees and they pick it up super fast. I would say they are comfortable using on their own in just a day or two. I personally love the microsoft plug in. Being able to attach emails to cases is really great. I’m able to see emails the attorneys or other legal assistants have sent or received. It is great for keeping on top of the case status.

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