A Framework for Evaluating Legal Tech Investments in 2025

Legal technology is no longer a niche discussion. From case management platforms to digital onboarding tools, technology is reshaping how solicitors deliver services. But with so many options — and budgets under pressure — how can a firm decide whether an investment is worthwhile?

Coyne Solicitors in Lucan recently introduced an online conveyancing quote calculator with secure onboarding. The results were clear: over 20 weekly quotes generated, around 30% of visitors requesting a quote, and a doubling of calls and emails. But what made the investment successful was not just the technology itself — it was the way the firm evaluated, structured, and implemented it.

This article sets out a practical framework for solicitors to evaluate legal tech investments in 2025.

Step 1: Define the problem clearly

Before investing in any tool, ask: what challenge are we trying to solve?

For Coyne Solicitors, the issue was clear. Enquiries were being handled manually, quotes took time to prepare, and onboarding often stalled. The goal was to reduce delays, increase enquiries, and build client confidence.

Without this clarity, it is easy to become distracted by technology that looks impressive but solves no pressing issue.

Step 2: Identify measurable outcomes

Technology should deliver measurable improvements. Examples include:

• Number of new enquiries generated.
• Percentage of enquiries converting into instructions.
• Time saved in administrative work.
• Speed of file opening.
• Client satisfaction and feedback.

By setting clear metrics, firms can later judge whether the investment achieved its objectives. For Coyne, the key measures were weekly quotes, conversion rate, and volume of new instructions.

Step 3: Consider compliance from the start

Legal technology is not like other business software. Solicitors must meet professional obligations and data protection standards.

Questions to ask include:

• Does the system comply with GDPR?
• Are data transfers encrypted?
• Is there an audit trail?
• Does it align with money laundering and professional rules?

Coyne’s onboarding system was designed with compliance by design — ensuring legal obligations were not just met, but embedded in the workflow.

Step 4: Assess client experience

Clients are at the heart of every legal service. Technology must make their journey smoother, not more complicated.

Ask:

• Is the interface clear and free of jargon?
• Can clients use it easily on a mobile phone?
• Does it give them confidence and reassurance?
• Does it provide transparency in fees and next steps?

Coyne’s tool delivered itemised quotes in plain language and provided a seamless “Proceed” button for instant onboarding. Clients reported that the process was “easy” and “reassuring.”

Step 5: Calculate return on investment (ROI)

ROI in legal tech is not only financial, but financial analysis is a key step.

The calculation should include:

• Direct gains – e.g. increase in new matters or billable hours.
• Indirect gains – e.g. time saved by staff, reduced paper handling, fewer client drop-offs.
• Costs – licensing, development, staff training, and ongoing maintenance.

For Coyne Solicitors, the tool created a reliable flow of new enquiries. Even with a conservative conversion rate, the additional instructions justified the investment, while efficiency gains reduced administrative burden.

Step 6: Pilot, then scale

A common mistake is trying to implement new technology across every practice area at once. A more effective approach is to start with one service — such as conveyancing — measure the results, and then expand.

Coyne began with property transactions, where client demand for transparency is highest. Success in this area created confidence to explore broader applications.

Step 7: Commit to continuous improvement

Technology is not a one-off purchase. Client expectations, regulations, and competitive pressures evolve. A system that works today may need refinement tomorrow.

Firms should:

• Collect feedback from clients and staff.
• Review metrics regularly.
• Update workflows as regulations or market conditions change.

Coyne continue to refine their system based on real-world use, ensuring it remains effective and compliant.

A practical framework for solicitors

To summarise, evaluating legal tech in 2025 involves seven key steps:

1. Define the problem clearly.
2. Identify measurable outcomes.
3. Consider compliance from the start.
4. Assess client experience.
5. Calculate ROI (including indirect benefits).
6. Pilot before scaling.
7. Commit to continuous improvement.

By following this framework, solicitors can make confident investment decisions, avoid wasted costs, and ensure technology supports both their practice and their clients.

Final thoughts

Technology is not an end in itself. The goal is not to be the most digital firm, but to be the most effective for clients.

Coyne Solicitors’ journey illustrates how a carefully chosen investment — guided by a clear framework — can transform a practice. From zero online quotes to over 20 per week, with faster onboarding and stronger client confidence, the results speak for themselves.

For the wider profession, the lesson is that legal tech works best when it is evaluated thoughtfully, implemented carefully, and improved continuously. In 2025, that is what will separate firms that thrive from those that fall behind.

⚖️ This article is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.