Built on the most robust unified legal technology platform, Clio Duo debuts as AI adoption rates soar

AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Clio, the global leader in legal technology, announced the arrival of Clio Duo at the 2024 Clio Cloud Conference in Austin, Texas. This groundbreaking introduction of artificial intelligence on the Clio platform—trusted by over 150,000 legal professionals—sets a new precedent for legal AI. It enables a seamless integration of advanced AI capabilities into everyday legal tasks, enhancing efficiency and transforming how legal professionals operate across a unified technology platform.

“The launch of Clio Duo marks a defining moment for the legal industry,” said Jack Newton, CEO and Founder of Clio. “We’ve embedded artificial intelligence into the most connected platform in legal, and we’ve done so at an unprecedented scale. As AI adoption continues to accelerate across the industry, we’ve built Clio Duo with a great deal of precision and protection, laying a strong foundation for how AI can empower legal professionals to scale their practice confidently. Our customers deserve the best tools as they reshape their practices with this transformative technology. Launching Clio Duo is a significant milestone to celebrate today, but it’s just the beginning of an ongoing journey to develop AI that evolves with the future of legal work.”

Clio Duo acts as an AI-powered legal partner, streamlining all aspects of a law firm and transforming data into actionable insights. Built into Clio’s flagship practice management product, Clio Manage, Clio Duo enhances legal workflows by offering insights and automating tasks, allowing legal professionals to prioritize critical work and boost productivity without switching applications.

With Clio Duo, customers can:

Instantly access client and matter details, retrieving key information without the need to sift through extensive documents.Extract and cite precise details from documents within seconds.Summarize any text document in Clio Manage with one click, and easily export or save the summary as a new file, on both desktop and mobile apps.Get smart recommendations on high-priority tasks and matters, including what needs immediate attention, meeting preparations, and how to prioritize pending tasks.Work from anywhere in Clio Manage and delegate assignments to Clio Duo, such as creating a task, bill, or calendar event, freeing you up to focus on your current priorities.Automatically generate professional text messages and email replies with suggested responses, generating short or long-form replies for client communications via Clio for Clients.View an audit log of all actions performed by Clio Duo, ensuring transparency and accountability for every AI-driven task.

Rising demand for AI in the legal industry

This feature arrives as Clio’s customer base demonstrates a strong demand for AI, reflecting a broader trend among legal professionals embracing AI adoption. Per the latest Legal Trends Report, 79% of lawyers in the United States have adopted AI in some capacity. Legal professionals’ opinions on future AI use support growing adoption: over 4 in 5 (84%) firms using AI believe that AI will increase over the next 12 months. Even among firms that have yet to adopt AI, 68% say their use of AI will increase over the next 12 months.

Early trial customers of Clio Duo reported significant boosts in both efficiency and productivity. From streamlining tasks to speeding up workflows, Clio Duo has helped legal professionals achieve more in less time without compromising quality.

“With Clio Duo, I can get so much more done in less time and save up to 5 hours a week. It really helps me tackle writing demands creatively and efficiently, and makes prioritizing my daily tasks much easier. I can stay focused on what truly matters.” – Taylor Sellitto, Paralegal, Legler, Murphy & Battaglia, LLP.

“Clio Duo makes it much easier to find key information, such as billing and month-to-month comparisons, helping me gain a better understanding of my practice’s growth.” – Kate Santon, Attorney, Santon General Counsel, P.C.

“Clio Duo has really improved how we communicate with our clients. Its ability to suggest and draft responses right from Clio Manage has made our job less stressful and much more efficient.” – Sarah Harris, Managing Partner, Harris & Schroeder, PLLC.

“With Clio Duo, I can get the data I need instantly just by asking a question. I don’t have to run reports or filter through custom fields anymore, which saves me time and helps me be more productive!” – Melissa Oosterhof, Attorney, Oosterhof Law Office, PLLC

Speed, accuracy, and transparency

Clio Duo efficiently handles questions through its chat-like interface, providing answers in text and table formats that can be easily copied and used in other editors. Leveraging advanced AI capabilities, Clio Duo can understand and process complex queries, tightly coupled with details from Clio Manage, producing timely and relevant insights. Additionally, Clio Duo can prioritize information, ensuring that the most immediately critical information is always top-of-mind across a law firm.

Clio Duo uses advanced technologies that include sophisticated machine learning techniques, natural language processing, and large language models to produce tailored insights, reduce manual inputs, and accelerate workflows.

Transparency and accountability are at the core of Clio Duo with its unique and robust audit log feature. This provides a clear trail of information sources, including cited references and document origins, ensuring that every piece of data and insight is traceable and verifiable. By maintaining records of all interactions and modifications, Clio’s audit log helps legal professionals keep track of their information, supporting compliance and enhancing confidence in the accuracy of their work.

Safety and limitations

Clio Duo is designed with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability, incorporating advanced guardrails that serve multiple critical functions. While these guardrails are essential for eliminating harmful content, ensuring that inappropriate or unsafe material is filtered out, they also play a significant role in security. By detecting potential vulnerabilities, such as prompt injections, and preventing unauthorized access or misuse, Clio Duo’s guardrails bolster overall system resilience. With stringent security measures and real-time monitoring, Clio Duo effectively mitigates risks while maintaining the integrity and protection of sensitive information.

Additionally, Clio Duo meticulously filters information to ensure relevance and accuracy, aligning with established permission lines within Clio Manage. Access to data and insights is restricted based on user roles and permissions, ensuring consistency and security across the platform. By adhering to these predefined permission settings, Clio Duo streamlines workflows while reinforcing a secure and controlled environment for managing sensitive client information.

A key milestone in Clio’s AI roadmap

Clio Duo is a major first step in the company’s wider AI-driven product roadmap. Clio plans to expand AI capabilities across every aspect of the Clio platform, transforming how legal professionals manage their practices. This includes advanced AI features that can perform a wide variety of tasks in law firm marketing, billing, legal documents drafting, and more, ensuring that law firm workflows are more intuitive, efficient, and insightful.

As part of its vision, Clio will introduce features that offer a more personalized AI experience. These advanced AI capabilities are built with rigorous data protection standards, ensuring customer information is handled securely and in full compliance with privacy regulations. By leveraging their data, users will gain access to tailored AI-driven solutions designed to meet the specific needs of their organizations. To ensure compliance, any data used in AI modeling will be carefully redacted to protect sensitive information. These tools will streamline workflows, aligning more closely with operational goals to enhance overall efficiency. Clio’s ongoing dedication to transparency and security remains a core focus as it continues to expand its AI offerings, enabling legal professionals to confidently tap into the full potential of artificial intelligence.

Clio’s app integration network, boasting over 250 integrations—the largest in the legal industry—plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI-powered technologies within the Clio platform. As Clio continues to lead in legaltech innovation, these partnerships will be instrumental in expanding the reach and capabilities of AI across unique legal workflows. As Clio expands its AI offerings, these partnerships will also drive innovation, ensuring that the legal community benefits from the latest advancements in AI technology while adhering to Clio’s industry-leading standards of security and data protection.

“We’re not just focused on today, we’re planning 2 to 5 years ahead,” says Jonathan Watson, CTO at Clio. “Our aim is to seamlessly integrate AI into every aspect of legal work, making it intuitive—an extension of your team—enhancing productivity and decision-making. By laying this groundwork now, we’re positioning Clio as a long-term AI partner for legal professionals, helping them navigate future challenges and find new ways to grow their practice. We’re committed to delivering AI tools that are intuitive and easy to use, while driving the industry forward with best-in-class innovation.”

For more information, please visit clio.com/features/legal-ai-software.

About Clio

Since its inception in 2008, Clio has revolutionized the landscape of legal technology, emerging as the undisputed leader of innovation and integration. By offering advanced yet intuitive legal software, Clio has redefined efficiency and client service, setting the standard for legal professionals across the globe. With an unwavering commitment to groundbreaking innovation and customer success, Clio stands as the preeminent authority in legaltech, continuously pushing the boundaries of the sector’s evolution. Explore the future of legal technology with Clio at www.clio.com.

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SOURCE Clio

Report shows AI adoption in law firms skyrocketing from 19% to 79% in just one year, prompting firms to realign their priorities and billing strategies.

AI usage has jumped to 79% of legal professionals, up from 19% in 2023, reshaping legal workSecret shopper study reveals over 50% of law firms ignore client inquiries—a massive opportunity for better client engagementLaw firms are charging 34% more of their cases on a flat-fee basis compared to 2016Law firms are boosting tech spending by 20% annually, with solo practitioners leading with a 56% increase

AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – Clio, the world’s leading provider of cloud-based legal technology, has released the ninth edition of the Legal Trends Report, offering exclusive insights into the key trends shaping the legal industry. This year’s report provides  in-depth analyses of AI adoption in the legal industry, the growing use of flat fees, law firm spending priorities as it relates to technology and marketing efforts, and their responsiveness to prospective clients.

“AI has reached the level of adoption the cloud took a decade to obtain, with 79% of lawyers now using AI daily,” said Jack Newton, CEO and Founder of Clio. “This increased efficiency is pushing firms to adopt more flexible billing options, like flat fees, that better align with the value they deliver. While the appetite for AI is promising, our report reveals that many firms still miss crucial growth opportunities by failing to respond to client inquiries promptly. A real advantage lies in improving client engagement, which will help firms stay competitive, deliver superior service, and secure long-term success in the evolving legal market.”

AI adoption is transforming legal practice

The latest report reveals that AI usage in law firms has skyrocketed, with 79% of legal professionals now incorporating AI tools into their daily work—a significant jump from just 19% in 2023. Not only are law firms embracing AI, but clients are increasingly supportive, with 70% either preferring or being neutral toward firms that utilize AI. This acceptance signals a shift in client expectations as AI becomes more mainstream in legal processes.

The steep adoption of AI has the potential to disrupt how lawyers operate the business-side of their firms. Clio’s analysis shows that  up to 74% of hourly billable tasks—such as information gathering and data analysis—could be automated with AI. Law firms should consider moving away from hourly billing in favor of more flexible options like flat fees to preserve profitability while benefiting from the increased efficiencies AI brings to legal workflows. As AI reduces the time spent on billable work, law firms may see a decline in revenue if they continue to rely on hourly billing.

Key highlights to note:

AI could make law firms more effective in working with clients—as a result, they may need to invest more in marketing to attract an increased client pipeline. The ability to handle more clients will require a stronger emphasis on marketing strategies to sustain the workload and grow the business.The number of legal professionals using AI has surged from 19% in 2023 to 79% this year, marking a significant shift in how law firms are integrating AI into their daily operations.Nearly three-quarters of a law firm’s hourly billable tasks are exposed to AI automation, with 81% of legal secretaries’ and administrative assistants’ tasks being automatable, compared to 57% of lawyers’ tasks.

Flat fee billing is on the rise

Flat fee billing has become an increasingly popular option, with law firms charging 34% more of their cases on a flat-fee basis compared to 2016, according to the report. This model is proving to be a more sustainable option as AI adoption accelerates. As AI reduces the time required for many administrative tasks, billing by the hour becomes less practical. Flat fees, on the other hand, enable law firms to capture the value of their services without being limited by time-based billing constraints.

While hourly billing remains predominant in law firms, clients are driving the shift towards flat fees with 71% now preferring to pay a flat fee for their entire case, and 51% favoring flat fees for individual activities. In addition, law firms using flat fees benefit from quicker billing cycles and faster payment collection, as they are five times more likely to send bills—and nearly twice as likely to receive payments—as soon as they complete their work for clients.

By adopting flat fees, law firms not only put themselves more in line with client expectations but also improve cash flow and service delivery, positioning themselves to handle more cases efficiently without compromising on quality.

Law firms increase investment in marketing and technology

Law firms have been steadily increasing their marketing and technology investments, with software spending growing by an average of 20% annually since 2013. This increase has outpaced revenue growth, which has increased steadily at 9% each year. The growing shift in spending towards technology highlights that  as the industry grows, firms increasingly see technology as  integral to their future business.  

The data shows that these investments could be paying off. Firms with above-average productivity—those billing more than the industry average of 33% of their workday, or roughly three hours of billable time per day—are making even larger investments in technology and marketing. These firms spend 12% more on software and 41% more on marketing, leading to a 21% increase in profitability. The data demonstrates a clear link between tech adoption, higher marketing efforts, and overall financial success.

Solo lawyers, while spending the least on software as a percentage of their overall expenses (0.58%), are rapidly accelerating their technology investments. In fact, solo practitioners’ technology spending is growing at a remarkable rate of 56% annually, more than twice the industry average. By comparison, small firms with 2 to 4 lawyers spend 1.77% of their expenses on software, while firms with 5 to 19 employees spend 1.37%, and firms with 20 or more employees spend 1.6%. This rapid adoption by solo practitioners reflects their recognition of technology’s critical role in remaining competitive in an increasingly digital legal landscape.

These investments in technology and marketing not only enhance internal operations but also position firms to attract more clients, increase revenue, and maintain a competitive edge in a modernized legal market.

Secret shopper study reveals that client intake remains a significant challenge

Despite advancements in technology, potential clients still face major hurdles when trying to connect with law firms. A 2024 secret shopper study, building on the findings of the 2019 Legal Trends Report, highlights these persistent challenges. Of the 500 law firms emailed, only 33% responded, a drop from 40% in 2019. Phone inquiries also showed a decline, with only 40% of firms answering calls, compared to 56% in 2019. In total, 48% of law firms were essentially unreachable by phone.

While firms that responded to emails did so promptly—84% within eight hours—just 18% provided clear next steps or cost information, and only 2% referenced similar legal cases as requested by shoppers. Phone interactions fared no better, as only 41% of firms offered rate information, 12% provided cost estimates, and 36% explained the legal process or outlined next steps. These gaps in communication left secret shoppers frustrated, with 73% unlikely to recommend the firms they contacted. However, personal interactions on the phone were more positively received, as 39% of shoppers said they would recommend firms they spoke with directly.

Law firm websites also offer a chance for improvement, as just 30% provide clear guidance on the hiring process, and 14% display pricing information.

Firms that focus on improving their client onboarding experience, like adding online client intake tools, are found to have 50% more incoming potential clients and earn 50% more revenue on average.

“Clients today expect timely responses and clear communication from their law firms, and those firms that prioritize this are seeing outsized gains in both new clients and revenue,” said Joshua Lenon, Lawyer-in-Residence at Clio. “By incorporating an online intake process and using technology thoughtfully, law firms can address these challenges head on, creating a more seamless experience from the very first client interaction.”

Additionally, using technology like chatbots to enhance client engagement offers promising potential. While 51% of clients find chatbots useful for exploring legal options, 67% still prefer having the ability to speak with a human when needed. This balance of technological efficiency with personal connection presents a valuable opportunity for law firms to refine their client intake processes and better meet their expectations.

About the Legal Trends Report

The Legal Trends Report is an ongoing research initiative that tracks key trends in practice management, client expectations, technology adoption, and more across the legal industry. Now in its ninth year, the research draws on data from thousands of legal professionals across North America, offering valuable insights into the emerging trends that are shaping the future of legal practice.

Each year, Clio’s team of research experts expand their efforts to cover new areas of interest, reflecting the rapid shifts in legal technology, client engagement, and law firm operations. Clio’s Legal Trends Report has become a trusted resource for legal professionals, law firm leaders, and industry stakeholders seeking actionable insights to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive and evolving market.

To stay informed of legal industry changes and access the latest report visit clio.com/ltr.

About Clio

Since its inception in 2008, Clio has revolutionized the landscape of legal technology, emerging as the undisputed leader of innovation and integration. By offering advanced yet intuitive legal software, Clio has redefined efficiency and client service, setting the standard for legal professionals across the globe. With an unwavering commitment to groundbreaking innovation and customer success, Clio stands as the preeminent authority in legaltech, continuously pushing the boundaries of the sector’s evolution. Explore the future of legal technology with Clio at  www.clio.com.

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SOURCE Clio

Okai brings years of tech leadership to Rocket as the company continues its strategy of AI-fueled homeownership

DETROIT, Oct. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Rocket Companies (NYSE: RKT), the Detroit-based fintech platform company including mortgage, real estate and other financial service businesses, today named Venmo Chief Technology Officer and former PayPal technology executive Papanii Okai the Executive Vice President (EVP) of Product Engineering – effective October 7. In this newly created role, Okai will work with the company’s senior technology leaders to create AI-driven products at an even greater velocity.

“We’ve all experienced technology that drives real impact in the world through Papanii’s work with Paypal and Venmo. Now, he will be using that skill to help revolutionize the homeownership journey,” said Shawn Malhotra, Chief Technology Officer of Rocket Companies. “After serving in roles from a hands-on-keyboard engineer all the way to a CTO at both startups and large international tech companies, Papanii’s technical depth and track record for building high-performing and highly engaged teams makes him a valuable asset for us at Rocket. I’m looking forward to working closely with him as he helps us continue to evolve and elevate our technology teams.”

Okai joins Rocket at a time when the company is modernizing the homeownership experience for clients and partners by harnessing AI to create the most personalized, efficient and accurate process possible. The company created its own loan origination system – called Rocket Logic – that uses AI to identify and automatically extract data from the documents Rocket clients submit. A related tool, Rocket Logic – Synopsis, presents team members with searchable transcripts from calls, chats, relevant documents and data from Rocket Logic. With the company’s AI-powered tools, Rocket is projected to save more than 700,000 hours of time this year.

“Homeownership is one of the most impactful things that can happen in someone’s life. It brings security, stability and can build generational wealth – which is exactly why I jumped on this opportunity,” said Okai. “The best way we can use technology is to make the path to homeownership easier, faster and more accessible. I’m looking forward to bridging the gap between technology and human experience, so people across the country, no matter where they are from, feel confident taking this life changing step.”

Okai spent nearly 11 years in technology leadership roles at Venmo, most recently as Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Engineering. He led the technology and engineering teams who built and scaled products used by Venmo’s 90 million users, while driving strategic initiatives that solidified Venmo as a leader in peer-to-peer payments. 

Okai also led the engineering teams at PayPal, the global payments company serving more than 400 million accounts, holding many roles ranging from platform engineer to Chief Technology Officer for Branded Checkout and Vice President of Engineering for PayPal Giving. He oversaw the engineers, developers and product managers worldwide who powered PayPal’s payments platform used by both customers and merchants.

Okai will collaborate closely with engineers, product managers and design teams to build upon Rocket’s AI-powered products. His leadership will ensure that Rocket continues to deliver technically advanced, client-focused solutions that drive innovation and efficiency at every stage of the home buying process.

About Rocket Companies

Founded in 1985, Rocket Companies (NYSE: RKT) is a Detroit-based fintech platform company consisting of personal finance and consumer technology brands including Rocket Mortgage, Rocket Homes, Amrock Title and Settlement Services, Rocket Money and Rocket Loans.

With more than 65 million call logs each year, 10 petabytes of data and a mission to Help Everyone Home, Rocket Companies is well positioned to be the destination for AI-fueled homeownership. Known for providing exceptional client experiences, J.D. Power has ranked Rocket Mortgage #1 in client satisfaction for primary mortgage origination and mortgage servicing a total of 22 times – the most of any mortgage lender.

For more information, please visit our Corporate Website or Investor Relations Website.

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SOURCE Rocket Companies, Inc.