ASK BOTTOMLINE

"Ask Bottomline" is a newsletter series that covers important legal spend management topics. As new issues are released, they will be posted below. If you are interested in receiving this newsletter, click here.

Issue #5
Q: What are some best practices for claims adjusters and staff attorneys to follow when reviewing a legal invoice?
A: Concerned that modifying invoices may negatively impact the relationships they've established with their law firms, adjusters and staff attorneys rarely look forward to reviewing legal invoices. Although some may see it as such, bill review is not just about managing costs; it's one of the many important tools available for managing a case to an efficient resolution. It also helps to facilitate critical, ongoing communication between the client and firm . more »

Issue #4
Q: What is the value of UTBMS codes in legal spend management?
A: The Uniform Task-Based Management System (UTBMS) is a comprehensive budgeting and billing classification system designed to provide clients and law firms with meaningful cost information on legal services. The value in using the codes couldn't be simpler - it normalizes data useful in planning, monitoring and analyzing legal costs. more »

Issue #3
Q: Is budgeting really going to help improve my case outcomes?
A: Budgeting may appear to be more of a hassle than a benefit - especially since your firms may resist at first. However, once the process is established, you will enjoy many long-term benefits, such as getting the best value for your legal dollar. more »

Issue #2
Q: What are some key things to consider in preparation for a successful a legal spend management system implementation?
A: Question the status quo. Is your current invoice approval process working? Are billing guidelines being adhered to? Have they been reviewed in the past 24 months? If not, now's the time to understand and revisit your best practices to ensure that your business goals are being achieved. more »

Issue #1
Q: How do you include collaboration as part of a successful legal spend management program?
A: Collaboration is a process where two or more people work together toward a common goal. This is usually accomplished through sharing knowledge, learning and building consensus. In the legal spend management world, we see matter resolution as the common goal and collaboration as a way to prepare for decisions related to legal strategy. more »