API Documentation
What is an API and How Can You Use It with Lawmatics?
Understanding APIs
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a tool that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. Think of it as a bridge that connects two systems, enabling them to share data and functionality without requiring manual input. APIs help automate workflows, integrate various tools, and enhance the overall efficiency of your software ecosystem.
For example, if you use Lawmatics to manage client relationships and another software for billing, an API can allow these systems to exchange data automatically, ensuring that your client records are always up to date across platforms.
How APIs Work
APIs function by receiving requests from one application and returning responses from another. This typically happens in the following steps:
A request is sent – A software application (such as your website or another CRM) sends a request to the Lawmatics API, asking for specific information or performing an action (e.g., creating a new contact).
Lawmatics processes the request – The API processes the request by retrieving or updating data within the Lawmatics platform.
A response is returned – The API then sends the requested data back to the original application or confirms that an action was successfully completed.
These interactions typically occur in JSON format, making it easy for different systems to interpret and process the data.
Common Use Cases for the Lawmatics API
Lawmatics customers use the API for a variety of integrations, including:
Extracting Data for Custom Reporting – Pull client, matter, or activity data into Power BI, Tableau, or other reporting tools to create advanced analytics dashboards.
Connecting Third-Party Call Centers & Chat Services – Integrate your call center or live chat platform with Lawmatics to ensure all new matters are captured in the system and trigger relevant automations.
Syncing with Case Management Software – If you use a case management platform that Lawmatics doesn’t have a native integration with, the API allows you to sync client and case data seamlessly.
Connecting Web Forms to Lawmatics Without Developer Access * – Some firms use the Forms API to send form submissions directly into Lawmatics without needing developer resources.
Getting Started
To start using the Lawmatics API, you will need:
API Access Credentials – Your Lawmatics API key, which allows secure communication between systems.
Basic Knowledge of REST APIs – The Lawmatics API follows RESTful principles, meaning it uses standard HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) for data operations.
A Developer or API Tool – If you are not a developer, you can use API tools like Postman to test and manage API requests without writing code.
Example API Request
Here’s a simple example of how you might retrieve a list of contacts from Lawmatics using the API:
curl -X GET "https://api.lawmatics.com/v1/contacts" \
-H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY"
This request asks Lawmatics to return all contacts in your account.
Forms API: A Simple Way to Get Data into Lawmatics Without Developer Access *
For firms that want to collect and sync form submissions with Lawmatics without needing developer access or building an app, we offer two options:
Option 1: Embedding a Lawmatics Custom Form (Easiest Option)
The fastest and easiest way to collect form submissions in Lawmatics is by embedding a Lawmatics Custom Form directly onto your website. This requires no coding and ensures that all submitted data flows seamlessly into your Lawmatics account.
➡ Learn more: Adding a Lawmatics Custom Form to Your Website
Option 2: Connecting Your Own Web Form via the Lawmatics Forms API
If you already have an existing HTML or JSON-based web form, you can use the Forms API to send form submissions directly into Lawmatics. This option is great for firms that want to keep their current forms but still leverage Lawmatics’ automation and data management features.
➡ Learn more: Connecting Your Webform to Lawmatics via API
The Forms API is a quick and simple way to get data into Lawmatics without requiring developer resources or complex integrations.