There’s nothing wrong with being technoskeptical. There’s good reason for attorneys to take a cautious approach to technological advancements, making sure that the next big thing is actually a worthwhile thing before throwing their money (and their clients’) at it.
But you also can’t bury your head in the sand when it comes to technological change — not just because it’s unwise, but because it can be an ethical violation. That’s right, more and more states are adopting the view that lawyers who don’t stay up to date on tech, or consult with someone who is, are violating their professional duties. So, if you are a Luddite lawyer, or your partner or associate is, it’s time to join the modern age. If you’re not sure, here are a few simple ways to tell.
1. You’ve Never Heard of eDiscovery
Technological competence doesn’t mean that you have to be on the forefront of artificial intelligence or blockchain technology orcourtroom virtual reality. But it does mean you should know the basics. And they don’t get much more basic these days thaneDiscovery.
Now, if you’re a frequent (or even occasional) reader of Technologist, we doubt you’re unfamiliar with eDiscovery. But arecent article in Corporate Counsel magazine, legal tech guru Robert Ambrogi recounts talking to a trial attorney who had never heard of eDiscovery. “That’s a scare state of affairs,” Ambrogi told Corporate Counsel’s Jennifer Williams-Alvarez.
The bar for being a non-Luddite isn’t high, but that attorney definitely wouldn’t make it over.
2. You Haven’t Mastered Everyday Software
3. You Keep (Almost) Everything on Paper
Read the rest at FindLaw.com including the details.