A virtual receptionist or legal answering service can be a great way to help you manage phone calls, set appointments, cut staffing costs, and extend office hours without extending actual time spent in the office. If you plan to use a virtual receptionist or legal answering service to help manage your calls, be sure to do your research by asking the following questions:

• Does the service provider have a good reputation?

• Is the call center trained to deal with legal industry issues, such as ethics and privacy?

• Are your messages delivered in real time or will you have to wait long periods to receive important calls?

• Do you have options regarding the handling of your calls and the services provided? For example, does the virtual receptionist company offer appointment scheduling, client intake, Spanish speakers, or custom handling services?

• Will you be locked into a contract or package plan, or can you use the service as it suits your law firm needs?

By providing callers a professional, friendly, and respectful voice on the other end of the phone, you will attract more clients and gain trust and respect from the ones you already have.