Timekeeping
Timekeeping refers to the crucial process of tracking and recording the time lawyers and legal professionals spend on client matters. It's a fundamental skill in law firms because most legal services are billed by the hour. Legal professionals use specialized software to log their activities in detailed increments, typically six-minute blocks (1/10th of an hour). This information is essential for billing clients accurately, managing workloads, and analyzing the profitability of cases. While similar to general time tracking, legal timekeeping requires specific attention to detail and compliance with client billing guidelines.
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily Timekeeping and billing for a team of 15 attorneys
Trained new associates on Time Entry procedures and billing guidelines
Implemented new Timekeeping software that improved billing accuracy by 30%
Supervised Time and Billing compliance for multiple practice areas
Typical job title: "Legal Timekeepers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Legal Timekeepers
Professional Associations
Online Resources
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a client disputes their billable hours?
Expected Answer: The candidate should explain their process for reviewing time entries, gathering documentation to support the charges, and working with attorneys and clients to resolve disputes professionally while maintaining client relationships.
Q: Describe your experience in training staff on timekeeping procedures.
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate ability to create training materials, conduct sessions, and implement processes to ensure consistent timekeeping practices across the firm.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to ensure timekeeping accuracy?
Expected Answer: Should discuss daily review processes, use of timekeeping software, understanding of client billing guidelines, and methods for catching common errors.
Q: How do you handle attorneys who consistently submit late time entries?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate professional communication skills, understanding of reminder systems, and ability to work with management to ensure compliance.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is your understanding of billable hours?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic concepts of time increments, billable vs. non-billable time, and importance of accurate record-keeping.
Q: How do you stay organized when managing multiple attorneys' time entries?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with timekeeping software or systems.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of legal billing software
- Data entry accuracy
- Understanding of time increments
- Basic knowledge of billing codes
Mid (2-5 years)
- Review and correction of time entries
- Understanding of client billing guidelines
- Ability to train others on basic procedures
- Handling billing inquiries
Senior (5+ years)
- Management of billing department
- Implementation of timekeeping policies
- Client relationship management
- Process improvement and optimization
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of attention to detail in own work
- Poor understanding of confidentiality requirements
- Unable to explain basic billing concepts
- No experience with legal billing software
- History of missed deadlines
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