
The Automated Lawyer
"The Automated Lawyer," hosted by St. Louis attorneys Dan Schnurbusch and John Fritz, is your guide to optimizing legal practice through technology. This podcast focuses on practical tech solutions for lawyers, covering essential topics like CRM systems, communication tools, document automation, and no-code platforms. Dan and John share insights on building effective tech stacks, streamlining operations, and enhancing client experiences. Join them for actionable advice on leveraging technology to practice law more efficiently and enjoyably, regardless of your firm's size or specialty.
Latest episodes

Sep 10, 2024 • 52min
Managing Client Communication with AI and Automation
Discover how AI and automation are transforming client communication in the legal field. Explore the pros and cons of AI tools like Zoom's AI companion and automated tracking systems. Get insights on effective strategies for maintaining client satisfaction while navigating the balance between efficiency and privacy. Hear personal programming journeys and the shift from traditional methods to automated solutions. Plus, learn actionable tips for integrating tech into your practice to enhance interactions and streamline workflows.

Sep 3, 2024 • 53min
Tyson Mutrux - Automating the Hiring Process
Harnessing Legal Tech and Automation for Law Firm Efficiency
In this episode, the speaker reflects on the impact of a podcast on their professional growth, discussing the critical shift from ego-driven marketing to client-focused strategies in the legal field. They highlight the importance of automation and efficient hiring processes, citing tools like Zoho and Zapier, and emphasizing the productivity gains from high-quality talent. The conversation also touches on the practical benefits of using technology in estate planning and the value of continuous learning through various online resources.
00:00 Discovering the Podcast
00:08 Reflecting on Personal Growth
00:21 Marketing in the Legal Field
00:40 Capitalizing on Weak Spots
01:01 The Importance of Facebook for Lawyers
01:12 Boosting Firm Productivity
01:41 The Value of A Players
02:16 Automation in Legal Practices
02:24 Efficient Probate Practices
03:29 Automated Hiring Process
03:37 Leveraging Zoho for Law Firms
04:00 Streamlining Job Applications
04:48 Integrating Video Ask
05:00 Exploring Automation Tools
05:12 Join the Legal Tech Collective

Aug 19, 2024 • 49min
Martin Kravchenko on Automating Toward Excellent Client Service
Maximizing Efficiency and Client Satisfaction through Legal Tech Automation
In this episode of the Automated Lawyer Podcast, Dan Schnurbush interviews Martin Kravchenko of Automation for Lawyers. They discuss the journey of breaking into legal automation, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and optimizing processes for client satisfaction. Topics covered include the differences and applications of no-code, low-code, and custom code solutions; the benefits of having an in-house tech expert; tracking productivity for better business outcomes; and the impact of reducing client anxiety through regular updates. The conversation highlights the balance between technological advancements and maintaining human touch in legal services. Dan and Martin also touch on useful platforms like Zapier, Make, and client portals, as well as practical tips for improving operational efficiency using automation.
00:00 The Automated Lawyer, Episode 7: Martin Kravchenko
00:12 Introduction and Host Update
00:27 Guest Introduction: Martin Kravchenko
00:49 Martin's Journey into Tech and Automation
01:53 Choosing the Legal Niche
02:45 Freelancing and In-House Experience
03:50 No Code vs. Custom Code Solutions
06:46 Importance of Custom Automation for Law Firms
13:48 APIs and Integration Possibilities
17:04 In-House Tech Experts in Law Firms
19:23 Automation Enhancing Human Interaction
22:38 Tracking Productivity in Law Firms
25:04 Analyzing Task Completion and Productivity
25:33 Extracting and Reporting Data
26:15 Categorizing and Automating Tasks
27:13 Understanding Employee Productivity
30:04 Gamification and Employee Motivation
32:59 Automation and Business Decisions
35:03 Improving Client Experience with Automation
41:14 Client Portals and Communication
46:12 Technology Tips of the Week
48:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

Aug 9, 2024 • 41min
Automating Sales & Marketing with your CRM with Kelsey Bratcher
Mastering CRM and Legal Automation with Kelsey BratcherIn this episode of the Automated Lawyer Podcast, hosts John Fritz and Dan Schnurbusch are joined by Kelsey Bratcher, owner of Hired Gun Solutions and an expert in CRM and legal automation. Kelsey shares insights on the importance of integrating CRM systems with law firm operations, offers best practices for managing leads and converting them into clients, and discusses various effective tech tools and CRMs like PipeDrive. The discussion also covers how automation can significantly improve client management and business efficiency. Tune in for valuable tips and strategies to optimize your law firm's client relationship management.0:00 The Automated Lawyer: Episode 6 - Automating Sales & Marketing with your CRM00:20 Introduction and Hosts' Catch-Up01:11 Introducing the Special Guest: Kelsey Bratcher02:37 Kelsey's Journey to Founding Hired Gun Solutions03:37 Challenges and Realities of Entrepreneurship06:17 The Importance of CRM in Legal Practices13:01 Why Lawyers Need CRM Systems21:23 Best Practices for Implementing CRM21:34 Understanding the Client Onboarding Process23:09 Best Practices for CRM Integration24:44 Optimizing Phone Interactions27:37 Streamlining Client Engagement and Payment32:51 Choosing the Right CRM and Tech Tools36:34 Tech Tips of the Week40:24 Conclusion and Contact Information

Aug 5, 2024 • 46min
Running a Virtual Law Practice
Mastering the Virtual Law Practice: Tools, Strategies, and Insights
In this episode of the Automated Lawyer Podcast, hosts John Fritz and Dan Schnirbush discuss the transition to virtual law offices, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. They share personal experiences and strategies for running successful virtual practices, including the use of tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, and virtual receptionists like Smith AI. They also delve into the importance of clear task flows, proper documentation, and the challenges and benefits of remote work. The episode wraps up with tech tips on optimizing task flows and scheduling client consultations efficiently. Tune in to learn how to leverage technology to run a more efficient and effective virtual law practice.
0:00 The Automated Lawyer - Episode 5: Running a Virtual Law Practice
00:28 Summer Challenges and Vacation Recap
01:49 Transition to Virtual Law Offices
02:43 Pre-COVID Virtual Practices
06:18 Tools for Virtual Law Practice
12:23 Marketing a Virtual Law Firm
15:56 Virtual Mail and Document Management
20:14 Building a Virtual Law Firm
23:02 The Implications of a Paperless Office
23:45 Balancing Work and Family Life
24:29 Building a Client-Centric Virtual Practice
25:36 Choosing Between Brick and Mortar vs. Virtual Law Practice
26:37 Addressing Productivity Concerns in Remote Work
28:02 Effective Task Management and KPIs
35:10 Training and Knowledge Sharing in a Virtual Environment
40:35 Tech Tips for Running a Virtual Law Practice
45:01 Conclusion and Community Engagement

Jul 26, 2024 • 46min
AI in the Law
The AI Revolution in Legal Practice: Exploring AI Tools, Applications, and Future Trends
In this episode of the Automated Lawyer Podcast, host Dan Schnurbusch dives into the transformative impact of AI on the legal industry. Dan offers an in-depth look at the landscape of AI, from the launch of ChatGPT 3.5 to the advancements seen with GPT-4 and beyond. He breaks down the essentials for attorneys, explaining key AI concepts and how they relate to the practice of law. Dan shares practical examples of how these tools are already being integrated into legal workflows, enhancing productivity, accuracy, and client service. Furthermore, he underscores the rapid pace of AI development, discusses emerging legal-specific AI tools like Harvey AI, and explores the ethical considerations surrounding AI use in legal practice. Tune in to learn how to position your law practice to leverage these groundbreaking technologies and keep ahead of the curve.
00:00 Introduction to the Automated Lawyer Podcast
00:25 The Rise of AI in Law
01:49 The Evolution of ChatGPT
04:02 The Impact of GPT-4
04:58 AI Tools and Their Applications
10:50 Understanding AI Terminology
12:02 Machine Learning and Deep Learning
13:51 Natural Language Processing and LLMs
16:56 AI Use Cases in Legal Practice
20:23 Security and Ethical Considerations
22:24 Preparing for the Future of AI in Law
24:17 Practical Uses of AI in Everyday Tasks
26:20 Advanced Prompt Engineering Techniques
28:20 Integrating AI into Automated Workflows
32:37 Fine-Tuning AI Models for Specific Needs
33:55 Understanding Vector Embeddings
42:02 Future of AI in Legal Practice
43:48 Staying Ahead in the AI Revolution

8 snips
Jul 22, 2024 • 34min
The Incredible Value of Document Automation
Explore the transformative impact of document automation in legal practices, from boosting efficiency to reducing repetitive tasks. Discover advanced tools like Airtable and Zapier, alongside practical applications that enhance workflow in areas like probate and estate planning. Learn how to implement basic automation features in existing systems while navigating customization for client communications. Plus, delve into the latest AI advancements and their cost-saving potential for law firms, ensuring you stay ahead in a tech-driven legal landscape.

Jul 15, 2024 • 31min
Mastering Zapier and AI for Law Firm Efficiency
Automating Law Practice: AI and No-Code Tools Revolution
In this episode of the Automated Lawyer Podcast, hosts John Fritz and Dan Schnurbush discuss the seamless integration of AI and no-code tools like Zapier for automating various aspects of law practice. They share insights on improving client experience, streamlining workflows, and managing data more effectively. Real-world examples include setting up automated processes for client follow-ups, email responses, and creating synchronization between different software platforms. The episode emphasizes the importance of good data structure and offers tech tips for both beginners and advanced users to maximize efficiency and productivity in legal services.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:16 Meet the Hosts: John and Dan
00:28 Kids' Birthday Party Chaos
00:54 Introduction to No-Code Automation
01:44 Understanding Zapier and Its Benefits
05:10 Automating Podcast Production
12:15 Advanced Automation Techniques
25:49 Tech Tips of the Week
31:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jul 5, 2024 • 43min
Automating an Amazing Client Experience
Streamlining Legal Workflows: Insights from the Automated Lawyer Podcast
In the inaugural episode of the Automated Lawyer Podcast, co-hosts John Fritz and Dan Schnurbusch introduce themselves and their law firms, emphasizing their commitment to incorporating technology and automation to improve client experiences.
They discuss their motivations for starting the podcast, which aims to share valuable insights on leveraging tech and AI in the legal space.
The conversation dives deep into their client journey processes, with each host outlining their firm's approach to automating client intake, managing data, and ensuring efficient case management.
They highlight the benefits of automation in reducing human error and improving response times.
The episode concludes with practical tech tips, including integrating e-signatures and exploring AI's potential in legal workflows.
0:00 The Automated Lawyer Podcast: Episode 1 - Client Journey Overview
00:15 Introduction and Hosts' Banter
00:49 Purpose of the Podcast
01:35 Introducing Dan Schnurbusch
02:59 Introducing John Fritz
03:32 The Importance of Technology in Law Firms
09:08 Client Experience and Tech Stack
18:34 Automating Client Onboarding
21:59 Challenges with Data Entry
22:59 Improving Client Communication
24:17 Automating Client Onboarding
25:21 Client Portal and Case Status
26:11 Streamlining Probate Processes
33:22 Post-Case Follow-Up Strategies
38:32 Tech Tips of the Week
42:25 Closing Remarks