Legal Time Tracking: Best Practices for Maximum Billable Recovery

The Cost of Lost Time

Studies show attorneys lose 10-15% of billable time to poor tracking habits. That's $50,000+ per attorney annually in unrealized revenue.

Effective time tracking isn't just about discipline—it's about systems that make capture effortless.

Core Time Tracking Principles

Capture Immediately

• Enter time as you complete tasks
• Don't rely on end-of-day reconstruction
• Use timers for ongoing work

Be Specific

• Detailed descriptions reduce client questions
• Include matter context
• Avoid generic entries like "research"

Review Daily

• Check entries before leaving
• Add missed time while fresh
• Verify matter assignments

Technology Tips

Modern time tracking tools offer:

• Automatic capture: Track emails, documents, calendar
• Mobile entry: Bill from anywhere
• Timer widgets: One-click start/stop
• AI suggestions: Smart time entry recommendations

See our guide on mobile billing apps for on-the-go solutions.

Common Mistakes

1. Block billing: Combining tasks loses detail
2. Rounding up excessively: Damages client trust
3. Forgetting non-billable: Tracking helps analyze efficiency
4. Poor descriptions: Invites scrutiny

Measuring Success

Key metrics to track:

• Utilization rate (target: 1,800+ billable hours/year)
• Realization rate (target: 90%+)
• Time entry lag (target: same-day)

Optimize your time capture. See how IntelliBill maximizes billable recovery.

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