For decades, DissoMaster has been an indispensable tool for California family law practitioners, offering precise calculations for spousal and child support in line with the state's guidelines. However, Thomson Reuters has announced that DissoMaster and the DissoMaster Suite will be discontinued on March 31, 2025.

Reasons Behind the Discontinuation

While Thomson Reuters has not publicly detailed the rationale, several factors may have influenced this decision:

1. Technological Evolution: The legal tech landscape is rapidly advancing, with a shift towards cloud-based solutions and more intuitive user interfaces. DissoMaster's legacy architecture may not align with these modern expectations.

2. Resource Allocation: Maintaining and updating software demands significant resources. Thomson Reuters might be redirecting efforts towards more scalable and profitable products.

3. Market Dynamics: The emergence of new competitors offering innovative solutions could have impacted DissoMaster's market viability.

Implications for Family Law Practices

The discontinuation of DissoMaster presents several challenges:

1. Transition to New Software: Practitioners must identify and adopt alternative tools, necessitating time and training to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

2. Courtroom Consistency: Courts have long relied on DissoMaster's outputs. Introducing new software may lead to discrepancies in support calculations, potentially increasing disputes and highlighting the need for standardized tools.

3. Training Investments: Firms will need to allocate resources for training staff on new systems, which could temporarily affect operations.

4. Client Communication: Clients may experience concerns due to changes in calculation methodologies, underscoring the importance of clear communication to maintain trust.

Recommended Actions for Attorneys

1. Explore Alternatives: Research and test other support calculation tools to determine the best fit for your practice.

2. Prioritize Training: Ensure that you and your staff receive comprehensive training on the new software to maintain service quality.

3. Engage with Courts: Stay informed about any court preferences or guidelines regarding support calculation tools.

4. Inform Clients: Proactively discuss the transition with clients, reassuring them of your commitment to accurate and fair outcomes.

Looking Forward

While the discontinuation of DissoMaster marks a significant change, it also opens opportunities for innovation. Modern tools often provide enhanced features like cloud accessibility and integration with case management systems, which can ultimately benefit both practitioners and clients. Embracing new technologies and remaining adaptable will enable family law professionals to continue delivering high-quality services in this evolving landscape.

If you need assistance with support calculations, please contact our firm. We are here to support you through every step of the process.