Document Assembly

• What is document assembly?
• What are Virginia lawyers saying about it?
• What software do I need to use a document assembly system?
• Can I customize a Virginia CLE system?
• Who is eligible to purchase a system?
• How much does it cost?

What is document assembly?

It is a system based on forms in a Virginia Lawyers Practice Handbook. Nearly all the forms in the associated handbook are included. A legal assistant or lawyer enters client data into a computer program and produces multiple draft documents without having to re-enter client data for each. The clauses in the documents are selected automatically based on the lawyer's decisions concerning the needs of each client. Once the client data and decisions are entered in the system, draft documents are produced in a matter of seconds.

What are Virginia lawyers saying about it?

• “It’s saved me so much time.”
• “The templates provide an efficient platform for initial (and often final) drafts.”
• “I’ve been very happy with the earlier versions and I look forward to using this updated set.”
• “Excellent—document assembly is fantastic.”

What software do I need to use a document assembly system?

Virginia CLE document assembly systems require Windows 95 or later, HotDocs^® version 5.0 or later, and either WordPerfect^® for Windows version 6.1 or later or Microsoft^® Word 97 or later. HotDocs^® is a commercial software program that works in conjunction with word processing programs. It is available at the HotDocs^® website for those who do not already have it. The standard edition is adequate for most users.

Can I customize a Virginia CLE system?

It is very easy to change the language of any document template in a system. You can then use the revised template with the same power as the original. Changing variables in the templates requires some study and practice, along with a good sense of logic. You can also automate your own documents using the variables that already exist in a system.

Who is eligible to purchase a system?

Virginia CLE document assembly systems are sold only to attorneys licensed to practice law in Virginia. A Virginia State Bar number is required. It is strongly recommended that attorneys using a system have access to the associated handbook.

How much does it cost?

Please see the details for the Virginia CLE Estate Planning System and the Virginia CLE Family Law System.

Virginia Continuing Legal Education
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