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How does rollover call forwarding work?
Published: 07.17.25
Rollover call forwarding is a dynamic way to ensure no call goes unanswered while still giving your in-house staff the first opportunity to pick up. Here's how it works, its benefits, and where it fits best:
What Is Rollover Call Forwarding?
Rollover forwarding sends calls to Answering Legal only if you don’t answer after a set number of rings—typically 3 to 5. It acts as a safety net, catching calls your team misses due to being busy, away, or off-duty.
How It Works
- Someone calls your main office number.
- Your staff or system has a few rings (you choose how many).
- If unanswered, the call is automatically forwarded to Answering Legal.
- Our legal intake receptionists take the call, gather info, and send you a detailed message.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
Ensures all calls are answered, even if your staff is unavailable | Slight delay in pickup while the rings time out |
Supports and supplements your internal team | May not catch time-sensitive calls instantly |
No need to toggle or manage daily—always on in the background | Requires correct setup with your carrier or system |
Ideal for firms with partial receptionist coverage | Can conflict with voicemail if not set correctly |
Best Use Cases
- Offices with receptionists who can’t always answer (lunch, multiple lines).
- Firms that want to avoid voicemail entirely.
- Teams that want Answering Legal as a consistent backup, not full-time handler.
Setup Tips
- Choose the right ring count (3–5 is common).
- Disable voicemail or extend its delay to avoid interference.
- Work with your carrier or phone vendor to configure rollover forwarding correctly.
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