Step 1 — How to access Claude

1. Go to claude.ai in your browser
2. Create a free account (email, Google, or Apple sign-in — no credit card needed)
3. Sign in and explore the interface — use the chat window and left sidebar for history and Projects
4. Install the mobile app on iOS or Android (optional)
5. Download the desktop app for macOS or Windows (optional)

Step 2 — How to pay for Claude

1. Understand the plans — Free ($0), Pro ($20/month), Max 5× ($100/month), Team ($25/seat/month), Enterprise (custom)
2. Choose the right plan — Solo attorney → Pro; Small firm (5+) → Team Standard; Regulated firm → Enterprise
3. Upgrade your plan — click your profile icon → Upgrade plan → enter payment details
4. Manage billing and seats — go to Settings → Billing to view invoices, add/remove seats, or update payment

Step 3 — How to set up Claude for Law

1. Configure privacy settings — go to Settings → Privacy and disable model training if handling confidential client info
2. Configure your work – go to settings → What best describes your work → select Legal from dropdown
3. Create matter-specific Projects — name by practice area (e.g., “Employment — Wrongful Termination”)
4. Write a system instruction for each Project — tell Claude your jurisdiction, tone, and that output is for attorney review only
5. Use ready-made legal prompts — research, drafting, contract review, and client FAQ prompts
6. Always review and verify Claude’s output — treat it like a junior associate’s first draft; you remain professionally responsible

A few important reminders for any legal professional using Claude: always verify citations and case names against primary sources, review your bar association’s AI ethics guidance before uploading client documents, and disable model training in your privacy settings when handling confidential matters.