What to automate first in a law firm or busy practice

For a professional-services firm (law, accounting, a clinic, a consultancy), the first wins are usually the front door, not the work itself.

1. Every call answered. An AI receptionist answers 24/7, takes a message and sends it to your inbox. Anything about a case or a fee goes to a person.
2. Intake that lands clean. A short online form that asks the right questions and files the answers where you work.
3. Reminders. Appointment and document reminders by text or email.
4. Follow-up. A polite nudge when someone goes quiet, with one follow-up at most.
5. A weekly report. New inquiries, response times and what slipped, in one email.

Keep the AI away from advice and away from anything privileged. This is general information about automation, not legal advice.