Backend Developer for Client Portal

Law firm website — backend development Solo attorney practice seeking a backend developer to build a secure client portal and internal case management system. Overview I am an attorney running a solo law firm. I am building and designing the front end of my website myself and need an experienced backend developer to build the systems behind it. This project has two main components: a secure client-facing portal and an internal case management system for me as the attorney. The system must be secure enough to handle sensitive client information including Social Security numbers and confidential legal documents. I would prefer someone with proficient use of AI in order to keep costs down. Please provide a breakdown of costs. Full disclosure: f your proposal exceeds $2,500 in up front development costs, I will not accept. This is simply because I can purchase the CRM outright for $2,500. Project details: DEVELOPER'S RESPONSIBILITY All backend infrastructure: authentication system, database design, secure data storage, APIs that connect my frontend to the backend, and both the client-facing and attorney-facing systems described below. Component 1 — Client portal Clients will log in to a secure, password-protected portal. Each client should only be able to see their own information. The portal must include: Intake questionnaires Clients can fill out forms with sensitive information (including SSN). They must be able to save their progress and return later to complete the form. All data must be encrypted. Document access Clients can view and download documents I have shared with them (such as their estate plan or other case materials). Meeting booking and reminders Clients can schedule appointments and receive automated reminders about upcoming meetings. Secure messaging Clients can send and receive messages with me through the portal. This must be secure given the sensitivity of attorney-client communications. Component 2 — Attorney dashboard (my side) I need a private dashboard that only I can access. It should function as a full case management system. It must include: Client records Full client profiles with all their details, questionnaire answers, case notes, and estate plan information. Calendar, dates, and reminders View all meetings, deadlines, and important dates across all clients. Receive reminders for upcoming events. Email and newsletters Ability to send emails to individual clients or newsletters to a group of clients directly from the dashboard. Case notes Add, edit, and view notes on each client's case. Notes are private and not visible to clients. Security requirements This system will handle highly sensitive legal and personal information. The developer must be able to explain and demonstrate how the following will be handled: encrypted data storage (especially for SSNs and sensitive fields), secure authentication with role-based access (client vs. attorney), HTTPS on all connections, and protection against common security vulnerabilities. Please address security approach in your proposal. I am using ClaudeCode to build my website. I am building the front-end. You must be able to integrate with what I am building. I am a fan of using AI to keep costs down. Scalability The firm is currently one attorney but may grow. The system should be built in a way that can accommodate additional attorneys and staff in the future without needing to be rebuilt from scratch. What I need in your proposal One-time development cost (itemized if possible) Ongoing monthly maintenance and hosting costs Estimated timeline to completion Technologies you plan to use and why How you will handle security for sensitive legal data Examples of similar projects you have built What ongoing support or updates are included after launch A note on communication I am not a technical person. I am looking for a developer who can communicate clearly in plain language, explain what they are building and why, and be responsive throughout the project. If you cannot explain your approach simply, this may not be the right fit. Thank you!