The 8 Best Clio Draft Alternatives (Formerly Lawyaw) for Automating Legal Documents

Ever since Lawyaw became Clio Draft, things haven’t been the same. What used to be a go-to tool for legal document automation now comes with syncing delays, unexpected errors, and a workflow that just doesn’t feel as smooth.

If you’re considering Clio Draft but have heard mixed reviews, or you’re already using it and running into frustrations, you’re not alone.

Luckily, there are plenty of Clio Draft alternatives that don’t come with the restrictions of its Clio Draft transition. Keep reading to find a tool that fits your firm’s needs.

What Is Clio Draft?

Clio Draft, formerly known as Lawyaw, is a legal document automation tool that helps law firms create, manage, and fill out documents faster.

If you’re already using Clio Manage, Clio Draft integrates directly with it, making it easier to pull client information into your documents.

Key features

• Template automation – Turn your most-used documents into reusable templates that autofill with client data.
• Conditional logic – Automatically adjust wording, pronouns, or clauses based on case details so you don’t have to edit each document manually.
• Court forms library – Access a collection of state-specific, fillable PDF court forms that auto-populate with case info.
• Data integration – If you’re using Clio Manage, you can pull client data directly into your documents, saving time on manual entry.
• E-signatures – Get documents signed digitally without needing third-party tools.
• Cloud-based access – Work on your documents from anywhere without worrying about outdated versions.

Pricing

• Court Forms Plan – $70/month per seat (access to fillable PDF court forms).
• Document Automation Plan – $110/month per seat (convert Word docs into templates and automate document drafting).
• Full Plan – $150/month per seat (includes both automation and court forms).

Clio doesn’t offer a free trial for Clio Draft, so you’ll need to contact them for a demo or sign up directly.

Why Look for a Clio Draft Alternative?

Clio Draft works well if you’re deep in the Clio ecosystem. But that’s also where some firms run into problems.

If you’re looking for something more flexible, affordable, or easier to customize, it makes sense to explore other options:

The Clio integration can be restrictive

Since Clio Draft is built by Clio, you’d expect it to work seamlessly with Clio Manage. But some firms experience syncing delays, missing data, and a disjointed workflow.

A key limitation is its one-way integration – it pulls data from Clio Manage but doesn’t sync changes back the same way other platforms do.

Other tools offer two-way syncing, meaning updates to documents automatically reflect in your practice management system. This helps keep everything in sync without extra manual work.

So, if you need more flexibility in how data moves between systems, there are better options that integrate with Clio without the same restrictions.

The pricing doesn’t work for every firm

At $110–$150 per user per month, Clio Draft isn’t exactly budget-friendly; especially for firms with multiple users.

Some platforms offer more flexible pricing options or better value at a lower cost. So, if you’re looking to scale without spending a fortune, Clio Draft might not be the most cost-effective choice.

Customization options are limited for complex workflows

Clio Draft handles basic automation well, but firms with complex documents may find it too restrictive. While it offers conditional logic for simple adjustments, setting up custom fields can be time-consuming, and it lacks advanced multi-step automation.

If your workflow requires dynamic templates that adapt to detailed inputs, you may need a tool with deeper customization and more flexible automation.

Some alternatives provide greater control over templates and integrations, making document generation smoother and more efficient.

The Top 8 Clio Draft Alternatives

Don’t be discouraged by Clio Draft’s limitations. You’re not short on options!

Below, we’ve rounded up the best alternatives to help you find a solution that better meets your firm’s needs.

1. Knackly

Knackly is a powerful legal document automation tool designed to eliminate repetitive data entry, reduce errors, and speed up document generation.

Its smart intake forms and automation tools adjust to each case, so you don’t have to waste time tweaking documents manually.

And unlike Clio Draft, it doesn’t just pull data from Clio – it syncs both ways, keeping everything updated automatically.

Key features

• Two-way Clio syncing– Automatically push and pull updates between Knackly and Clio, so you never have to re-enter data.
• Seamless integrations – Integrate with Filevine, Curo365, Zapier, OneDrive, and more, to sync client data across your entire tech stack.
• Smart client intake forms – Let clients complete guided forms that feed directly into your documents – no manual entry needed.
• Advanced automation & customization – Set up complex logic, auto-generate case-specific document sets, and format everything exactly how you need.
• Batch document creation – Instantly create multiple Word or PDF documents at once, all pre-filled with the right details.
• Security-first approach – Rely on AWS-powered encryption, role-based access controls (RBAC), and real-time monitoring to keep client data locked down.

Pricing

Knackly keeps pricing simple with no hidden fees:

• Plus – $250/month for 4 users (great for small teams).
• Do It For You – $500/month (Knackly sets up your automation for you).
• Professional – $999/month for firms that need API access and advanced automation (supports up to 12 users).
• Additional users range from $35 to $50 per user per month.

Schedule a demo for free here.

Best for

Knackly is perfect for law firms, loan companies, and any business that deals with repetitive legal documents. If you’re looking for a more flexible alternative to Clio Draft or need better automation, Knackly is worth considering.

2. Contract Express

Contract Express is a document automation tool from Thomson Reuters that’s built for firms handling complex legal work. If your firm already uses tools like iManage, HighQ, or Salesforce, you’ll appreciate its built-in integrations.

Key features

• Smart document automation – Use dynamic questionnaires to speed up drafting and reduce errors.
• Clause library – Store and reuse approved legal language across your documents.
• Built-in approval workflows – Send documents through the right people automatically.
• Version control – Always work from the latest version.
• Integrations – Works with Microsoft SharePoint, Salesforce, iManage, HighQ, DocuSign, Adobe Sign, and more.

Pricing

Contract Express starts at $195/month, but pricing can vary depending on your firm’s setup. You’ll need to contact Thomson Reuters for a custom quote.

Best for

Contract Express is a solid pick for larger law firms or legal departments that already use Thomson Reuters tools and want a powerful automation system to match. 

That said, it’s not the most beginner-friendly platform. Some firms find the learning curve steep, especially if you don’t have a dedicated tech or ops person on your team.

3. XpressDox

XpressDox is a flexible document automation tool built with customization in mind. It’s popular among legal teams that want total control over how their templates are set up and how data flows into documents.

Key features

• Customizable templates – Tailor your documents with conditional logic, variables, and formatting that fit your exact needs.
• Data reuse – Pull client or case data into multiple documents without retyping anything.
• Flexible output – Generate Word, PDF, or even auto-fill Outlook emails straight from the platform.
• Data source integration – Connect with external databases or CRMs to bring data into your documents automatically.
• Works with your tools – Integrate with document management systems and cloud storage platforms for a smoother workflow.

Pricing

XpressDox doesn’t list its pricing publicly, but it offers custom plans based on your needs. You’ll need to reach out to them for a quote.

Best for

XpressDox is best suited for law firms, legal departments, and businesses that need a high level of customization in their document workflows. 

But keep in mind, it’s not the easiest platform to learn. The setup can be complex, and there’s a bit of a learning curve if your team doesn’t have someone technical to handle the templates.

4. Actionstep

Actionstep is a full legal practice management platform. You get built-in tools for workflows, billing, time tracking, CRM, and document creation, too. It’s great if you’re looking to bring everything under one roof and reduce the number of tools your firm relies on.

Key features

• Workflow automation – Set up repeatable processes that move cases along without manual follow-ups.
• Built-in document generation – Auto-fill templates with client and matter data stored in Actionstep.
• CRM and client management – Keep track of every interaction in one place.
• Time tracking & billing – Track time, generate invoices, and manage billing all within the same platform.
• Integrated document management – Store and organize files directly in the system, with no third-party DMS needed.

Pricing

• Essential – $49/user/month (good for small firms with basic needs)
• Pro – $89/user/month (minimum 5 users; includes custom workflows and advanced features)
• Enterprise – Custom pricing for larger firms or complex setups

Best for

Actionstep is a great fit for firms that want an all-in-one system to manage their operations.

That said, its document automation features are more basic than what you’ll get with a specialized tool. If you’re after deep customization, complex logic, or heavy automation, you might find the document side of Actionstep a bit limited.

5. HotDocs

HotDocs is a well-established tool for turning complex documents into reusable, intelligent templates. It’s especially popular with larger organizations that deal with high volumes of repetitive paperwork, like law firms and financial institutions.

Key features

• Template automation – Convert standard documents into reusable templates that adapt to various scenarios.
• Conditional logic – Incorporate if/then statements and repeat loops to control the inclusion or exclusion of language blocks.
• Data integration – Connect with databases and other data sources to populate documents automatically.
• Workflow automation – Automate sequences of interactive data-gathering forms to collect necessary information.
• Compliance and security – Ensure documents adhere to regulatory standards with built-in compliance features and protect data with robust security measures.​

Pricing

HotDocs does not publicly disclose its pricing. Costs can vary based on the specific needs and size of the organization.

Best for

HotDocs is best for larger firms or teams with complex, high-volume document workflows; especially if you already have technical resources in-house. But keep in mind: some users say it feels a bit outdated, and customer support can be hit or miss.

6. Docassemble

Docassemble is a free, open-source tool for building guided interviews and generating custom documents based on user inputs. If your team has technical chops (or access to a developer), it can be incredibly powerful.

Key features

• Interactive guided interviews – Ask the right questions in the right order to gather client info cleanly.
• Document generation – Create custom PDFs or Word docs based on form responses.
• Multilingual support – Build interviews in multiple languages for broader accessibility.
• Advanced customization – Use Python to create more complex logic or integrations if needed.
• Completely open-source – No licensing fees and a growing community sharing templates and support.

Pricing

Docassemble is completely free to use. You just need to host it yourself – most teams do this for around $10–$40/month, depending on the server and setup.

Best for

Docassemble is great for legal aid orgs, tech-savvy solo lawyers, or firms with developers on board. If you’re comfortable working with open-source tools – or have someone who is – you get tons of flexibility without paying for a fancy UI.

But for less technical users, it can be overwhelming to set up and maintain. There’s no formal support team, so if something breaks, you’ll be relying on GitHub issues or community forums.

7. Woodpecker

Woodpecker is a lightweight document automation tool that works right inside Microsoft Word – no need to learn new software or bounce between platforms. 

It’s great for legal professionals who want to build smart templates, standardize their documents, and speed things up without diving into complex workflows or code.

Key features

• Native Word integration – Add a layer of automation right into your existing workflow.
• Reusable templates – Set up once and reuse across cases and clients.
• Conditional logic – Use if/then rules to automatically include or exclude certain sections based on what’s relevant to a client or case.
• Easy data entry – Fill in key fields once, and auto-populate multiple documents.
• Collaboration-friendly – Share templates across your team and keep document formatting and content consistent.

Pricing

Woodpecker doesn’t list pricing on its site. You’ll need to get in touch for a quote based on your team’s needs.

Best for

Woodpecker is a good fit for small to mid-sized law firms that live in Microsoft Word and want a simple, no-fuss way to automate documents. 

But it’s a more standalone solution; if you’re looking for deeper integrations with practice management tools or complex workflows, you might feel a bit limited.

8. Legito

Legito is an all-in-one platform for document automation, collaboration, and management. It’s designed for legal teams that want more control and structure around their document workflows – from drafting and approvals to storing everything in one place.

Key features

• Smart templates – Build dynamic templates that change based on user input.
• Collaborative editing – Multiple team members can work on the same document without stepping on each other’s toes.
• Approval workflows – Set up automated review and approval steps to keep things moving without endless back-and-forth.
• Clause library – Store reusable clauses so your team stays consistent and compliant across documents.
• Integrations – Connect with CRMs, ERPs, or other business tools to pull in data and push out completed documents.

Pricing

Legito doesn’t publish pricing on their site, so you’ll need to contact their team for a custom quote based on your needs.

Best for

Legito is a great fit for mid-sized to large legal teams or businesses that want an end-to-end document automation system with advanced workflow control.

But if your firm primarily works in Microsoft Word or prefers to keep things lightweight, Legito’s web-based editor might feel a bit rigid and less intuitive. Some users mention a learning curve when switching over from Word-based tools – and not every formatting detail translates cleanly.

Ready to Upgrade Your Document Automation?

Clio Draft can be a good fit if your firm runs entirely on Clio and doesn’t need much customization. But for teams that handle more complex documents or need flexible integrations, it often falls short.

If you need a tool that can generate full document sets using conditional logic or sync data both ways with Clio, Knackly is the best alternative.

It’s built for firms that want to automate without limitations – whether that means creating the right documents based on client input or using smart intake forms that adapt to each case.

Curious if it’s the right fit? Book a free 30-minute demo and see how Knackly can simplify your entire document process.