Knackly vs. HotDocs
Legal teams are making the switch to Knackly for a reason. Explore how our modern platform compares to HotDocs for both simple and complex document automation.
Overall
4.6
Out of 5
4.1
Out of 5
What's the difference between Knackly & HotDocs?
Knackly gives you the same document automation power as HotDocs-just without the steep learning curve or maintenance headaches. It's faster to learn, easier to update, and built for teams that want more flexibility without relying on external developers.
Easier automation without scripting
HotDocs relies on complex scripting that's tough to learn and maintain. Knackly uses a visual, no-code builder so legal teams can create and update templates without developer support.
Transparent, all-in pricing
Knackly offers clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees or extra charges for advanced features.
Faster to implement and easier to manage
Knackly is built with modern firms in mind. You can get up and running quickly, make updates in-house, and adapt your templates as your needs change.
6 reasons to choose Knackly over HotDocs
Not convinced yet? Here are six reasons legal teams are switching from HotDocs to Knackly.
Bring your existing templates with you
Worried about losing the work you've already done in HotDocs? Knackly's conversion tool makes it easy to bring over your logic, variables, and structure, so you don't have to rebuild from scratch.
- HotDocs component files are automatically imported into Knackly Models
- HotDocs formulas are simplified during the conversion process
- Template logic is used to auto-generate your first client interview
Learn more about the process of converting your templates.
Avoid dual automation
In HotDocs, you have to automate both the template and the interview. That means building logic twice. With Knackly, you define the logic once, and it works everywhere.
- No separate scripting to show/hide fields
- Interviews auto-adjust based on each document's needs
- Fewer steps, fewer errors
Build dynamic forms without complex scripting
In HotDocs, creating dynamic variables often requires scripting, indexing, and careful logic to reference data across lists. It's time-consuming and hard to manage. Knackly removes the complexity. You define a list once (e.g., people, roles, entities), and your selection fields can reference it anywhere.
- Dynamically select roles like executor, plaintiff, or borrower using a single data source
- Reuse contact data across templates without duplicating logic
- Pull selection options from Knackly records, integrated apps, or custom APIs
Grow your practice through efficiency & accuracy
Draft high-quality, accurate documents in a fraction of the time without spending thousands or hiring more staff. Spend the time you save proactively helping your clients and winning new business. That's how Knackly users grow their practices.
Reuse and update information easily
Knackly is built on an object-oriented system, so you can update variables, logic, or content once and have it reflect across all templates.
- Update variables, templates, and formulas in a single place
- Reuse lists, fields, and filters across multiple templates
- Sort, filter, and group data without having to recreate the same logic over and over
Create multiple documents from the same intake
In HotDocs, creating multiple documents means managing logic and scripting for each file. With Knackly Apps, you set it up once, then generate Word and PDF documents from a single intake.
- Only show the questions needed for each selected document
- Name your documents using text and variables
- Generate both Word and PDF files from the same intake
Reuse client data with all your templates
Unlike HotDocs, Knackly stores your client information and documents in the same record. It acts more like the old HotDocs Answer file that can be used on any document.
- Client data is stored in a single answer source that multiple documents can use
- Search and filter by client, matter, or status
- Instantly access and reuse past intakes and documents
- See a summary of important client data at a glance
Want a deeper look at why legal teams are moving away from HotDocs?
Read our full breakdown of HotDocs alternatives
Knackly vs. Hotdocs: Feature- by-feature breakdown
| Pricing | Transparent, straightforward pricing | Must contact sales for pricing |
| Implementation | Easy setup & fast implementation | Requires extensive scripting |
| Time Savings | Save up to 40% more time automating templates | Time-consuming due to complex setup |
| Customer Support | | |
| Client Data Access | Search, find, and reuse data across all clients | Not available |
| API | Robust, fully documented Open API | Open API (less flexible) |
Our customers are happy. Yours will be too!
It's not just us-buyers on Capterra are saying the same thing about their experience with Knackly.
Ease of Use
4.2
Out of 5
Customer Service
4.2
Out of 5
Overall
4.6
Out of 5
Features
4.4
Out of 5
Value for Money
5.0
Out of 5
Customer Service
4.2
Out of 5
Value for Money
5.0
Out of 5
Knackly trusted by more than 150+ companies across the globe
Trusted by legal teams nationwide
"This is a really great product. It is still being refined. Eventually this will be the product to use regardless. There are still some missing features that some people might miss but overall really great."
Michael S.
Operations Manager
"I've been able to do everything I have needed to do in Knackly so far. I like using the external client interviews and look forward to the coming improvements they will release."
Daniel V.
Attorney
"I'm still in the implementation phase but so far it is an amazing product. There is a little bit of a learning curve but the customer support is fabulous!"
Noel M.
Owner
"When Hotdocs priced itself out of the market for small businesses we reviewed all available replacements. Knackly was the best choice then and, in my opinion, remains the best choice."
Aric B.
Attorney
HotDocs or Knackly? It's an easy choice!
Tired of scripting and workarounds? Knackly's document automation improves how you create legal and business documents. Instead of manually editing templates or copying old files, you fill out a guided form that captures all necessary information.
The system then assembles a perfectly formatted document tailored to each client or case - automatically and instantly.
This means fewer mistakes, stronger consistency, and significant time savings. Whether you're creating contracts, estate plans, letters, or intake forms, document automation empowers your team to work smarter and deliver professional results faster than ever before. Getting started is simple with flexible monthly or annual plans, and you can cancel anytime for any reason.
Start building faster, smarter workflows today.