My Two Cents: Presentation In Your Word Documents is Everything!

THe strength of your argument can easily be overshadowed by how it is presented on the document itself.

A Georgia attorney has been disbarred for submitting "a fabricated e-mail" to the bar as part of his defense of a bar complaint.  A complaint had been made against this attorney for lack of proper representation. The details of the complaint and the history of the representation are not important for this editorial.  What is important to this editorial is that the Respondent ... 

"...sent several email exchanges purporting to be between her and [Complainant]. However, the March 9 email terminating Respondent’s representation supposedly sent from [Complainant] was in a different format and font than the others, and, unlike in the other emails, [Complainant] appeared to use perfect diction, capitalization, and punctuation. [Complainant] denied having sent this email, and the State Bar determined that the email was likely falsified by [Respondent]."

First, please forgive me as I set a little background about myself as it relates to this posting. I used to collect comic books as a teen.  I had to buy the perfect comic - no rips, bends, creases, watermarks, etc.  With an eagle eye, I'd make sure I got the perfect comic.  Now, bookend the other side of my skill for detail with my high-school ability to play with font types, sizes, margins, etc., to stretch out a class paper to a requisite number of pages for an assignment - mind you, I don't do that today.  This culminated into a skill where I can look at a document, say generated by a law clerk or opposing counsel, and can tell if the formatting is not right - spacing between pages is not consistent, two spaces between two words or sentences instead of one, font size is off, and so on.

be a super hero to your client with truth, justice and proper document formaTting!

With this background, I can usually tell when something is off on a document. Either in hard copy or on the screen, if the formatting is not correct, I can catch it. But what this attorney did, generating documents so obviously inconsistent in typical formatting (and grammar), aside from the common sense (and bar ethics) of not creating fake evidence, shows a fundamental lack of computer skills - formatting, styles, etc. If it’s not apparent to you that your spacing, paragraph returns, or tabs are off, turn on your non-printing formatting  marks to see how your document is constructed. (Check out this Wednesday's How to learn how to reveal now non-printing characters, the function that shows in your document your spaces, paragraph returns and tabs.)

IMHO, if your document does not look right, regardless of how strong your discussion is, the reader is likely to doubt the veracity of the argument.

Happy Lawyering!

MTC

Maintaining Legal Operations During Internet Outages: Tips For Lawyers

The downing of at&T’s INTERNET service caused some concern across the us…

AT&T’s outage last week should serve as a warning to lawyers about their own internet reliability (I don’t know how a $5 refund will alleviate AT&T customers from the self-panic ensued by the outage?🧐).  In the digital age, the legal profession, like many others, has grown increasingly reliant on the Internet for its operations. The internet is an indispensable tool in a lawyer's arsenal, from conducting research and accessing legal databases to communicating with clients and filing documents electronically. However, this dependency also means that internet outages can significantly disrupt legal operations, posing challenges that law firms must navigate to maintain continuity and uphold their duties to their clients.

Lawyers can take several proactive measures to ensure minimal disruption in their work due to internet outages. Here are five strategies to consider:

1. Backup Key Resources Offline: Lawyers should ensure they have offline access to critical resources, such as legal databases, case law, statutes, and client files. This can involve preemptively downloading essential documents and using software that allows offline access to these materials.

2. Establish a Redundant Internet Connection: Having a backup Internet connection can be crucial for maintaining productivity during an outage. Since AT&T went down last week, having a different provider (perhaps on a cheaper plan) could be a good investment. This could be in the form of a secondary wired connection, a mobile hotspot, or a tethering option through a smartphone. Investing in a reliable data plan for mobile devices can provide an immediate alternative if the primary connection fails.  (For example, I have Verizon FIOS for the office Wi-Fi, AT&T for phone and internet on my personal cell, and Verizon mobile for my blog phone and internet.  BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP, or REDUNDANCY, REDUNDANCY, REDUNDANCY!

3. Regular Data Backup: Regularly backing up data to external drives or cloud storage that can be accessed offline ensures that work can continue seamlessly, even without an internet connection. Automated backup solutions can be set up to run during off-hours to ensure that all recent work is securely stored.  Remember, my So, if one of your backups is in the cloud, then your other backup should be in a physical location like a hard drive at your office or offsite.

4. Develop and Test an Emergency Plan: It does not help if your emergency strategy doesn’t work! Creating an emergency plan that outlines steps to take during an internet outage can help minimize downtime. This plan should include contact information for IT support, steps for switching to a backup internet source, and a list of critical tasks that can be performed offline. Regularly testing this plan ensures everyone knows what to do when the internet goes down.

5. Invest in Training and Preparedness: Ensuring that all staff members are trained on how to access and use offline resources and understand the emergency plan is crucial. This can include training on manual procedures for tasks typically performed online, such as filing documents or conducting research.

lawyers can be proactive in the event of their internet going down!

By taking these proactive steps, lawyers can minimize the impact of internet outages on their practice, ensuring that they can continue to work effectively and meet their clients' needs, even in the absence of an online connection. Internet outage is a major concern I have with Law Practice Management providers based solely on the internet – if you lose access, there is going to be a major problem – and I don’t know how “understanding” a judge is going to be if you miss a filing deadline because the internet went down.  But in the meantime, what can lawyers do if there is downtime due to the internet being offline?

When the internet goes down, a lawyer, like any other professional reliant on online resources, can still stay productive by reverting to more traditional methods of working and organizing. Here are the top five things a lawyer should consider doing when you are completely stuck offline, and you have done everything necessary to protect your client’s interests:

Lawyers can still be productive during an internet outage!

1. Review Physical Files and Documents: Without internet access, it's an excellent opportunity to organize and review physical case files, documents, and any printed material that might have been set aside. This can also be an excellent time to catch up on reading case law, statutes, or regulations relevant to current cases that haven't been prioritized.

2. Plan and Strategize: Use this time to strategize for current cases or projects without the distractions of emails and online notifications. This can involve outlining arguments, planning case strategies, or brainstorming solutions to legal problems. It's also an excellent time to set goals and priorities for the coming weeks or months.

3. Networking and Client Relations: Reach out to clients, colleagues, and other professionals through phone calls. This can be an excellent opportunity to check in on clients, discuss cases, and build stronger relationships. Networking can also involve setting up future meetings or lunches.

4. Continuing Legal Education (CLE) and Professional Development: Lawyers often have CLE requirements to maintain their licenses. When the internet is down, it's an excellent time to catch up on CLE materials available in physical formats, such as books, journals, or even pre-downloaded audio or video courses.

5. Administrative Tasks and Office Organization: Use the downtime to catch up on administrative tasks that might have been neglected. This can include organizing the office space, filing, billing & invoicing, or even planning for future marketing efforts.

Did AT&T’s internet outage impact your firm’s OPERATIONS? Please share your stories!!!

While the internet is a crucial tool for modern legal practice, being disconnected can provide a valuable opportunity to focus on tasks that might otherwise be overlooked or deferred. It's also a reminder of the importance of having backup plans and being adaptable in the face of unexpected disruptions.

Happy Lawyering!

MTC

My Two Cents: If you are not using Technology in your law practice and are not going to the ABA TECHSHOW, you will likely be replaced by those who at least go to the TECHSHOW!

THe Tech-savvy lawyer at the 2024 aba techshow in chicago!

I just got back from Chicago after attending last week's ABA TECHSHOW! And I had a blast. It was not just because it had technology (and I'm a geek) or just because I am a lawyer (which is my day job). It was because the TECHSHOW provided a great marriage of the two to show and teach lawyers how technology can improve their practice of law.

The conference started off with an intro session titled "Your Future Starts Here: Technology and the Era of Legal Practice." Speakers Cynthia Thomas, Jayne Reardon, Dan Pinngton, and Reid Trautz gave a great session discussing the changing nature of legal work and the world in which we practice. The conference had a great mix of how lawyers use technology, like Brett Burney and Tara Cheever's two-part session on Winning Trials with TrialPad or Dan Dan Siegel and Pamela Myers session on Using PDFs and Adobe Acrobat in Your Law Office or Alicia Aquino and Heidi Barcus' session on electronically organizing your trial documents from beginning to voir dire or Barron Henley of Affinity Consulting Group session on Word Power Tips for Legal Users – if you are not mastering the power of Word then you are wasting a lot of time!  And there were many more engaging and informative sessions!

Judge (ret.) Herbert Dixon, Jr. and Judge Scott Schlegel share their insights and experiences on technology in the courtroom!

There were many sessions on the practical and ethical concerns about the use of AI. There were plenty of sessions on improving a firm's online marketing, introducing numerous Law Practice Management companies, and getting your firm's mentality to embrace technology in their legal work. Lastly, one of my favorite sessions was with Judge (ret.) Herbert Dixon, Jr. and Judge Scott Schlegel on Embracing the Digital Courtroom: Exploring Current and Future Trends. They gave a great history of the courthouse's use of technology in trial and its future! Meanwhile, many legal technology companies were on display on the vendor's floor – everything from LPMs like CLIO, Filevine, Practice Panther, and more, virtual assistants, marketing, Fujitsu/RICOH with their solo- to small-firm cornerstone hardware, the ScanSnap, and many more! 

Catching up with previous podcast guest annette choti of law quill!

The finishing highlight was the infamous 60 in 60, where some of the ABA's brightest highlight 60 tech programs, hardware, and work-tricks in 60 minutes!

The next TECHSHOW will be held at a new hotel in Chicago from April 2 - 5, 2025!

I hope to see you there!

My Two Cents: Initial Impressions: My Hands-On Experience with Apple's Vision Pro!

I decided I had to try on an Apple Vision Pro to see what all the hype was for myself. And I walked away with mixed results.

I had set up an appointment with my local Apple Store (did you know that my "local" Apple Store is at the mall where the first Apple Store opened? It has moved locations within the mall only fairly recently). When I arrived, I was greeted by the friendly staff I always expect from Apple. They directed me to their Vision Pro area.

I was welcomed and first asked if I had an eyeglass prescription. I did, and they needed to check my prescription to determine the ZEISS Optical Inserts I needed. They did this with a machine similar to what you see in your optometrist's office that makes an initial quick diagnosis of my prescription. (Note: It is my understanding that you will need to bring in a recent written prescription from a doctor in order to get your Optical Inserts when you purchase the Vision Pro).

While they were getting the Vision Pro and Optical Inserts, the employees brought me to a table and had me sit down. After a couple of minutes, they brought out the Vision Pro in a Vision Pro box -- this box is similar to any Apple product. (Note that Apple's carrying case costs nearly $200.00!) Opening the box had the same awe you get when unboxing any Apple product for the first time.

The device was securely placed in the box. I was instructed on how to lift the device properly (thumb under the nose with your other hand lifting the back of the Solo Knit Band). It was lighter than I expected (between 21.2–22.9 ounces. Weight varies depending on the Light Seal and head band configuration). This weight does not consider the weight of the Optical Inserts, but they added minimal difference! I can see how over time, where I'd want to wear the Dual Loop Band versus the Solo Knit Band for better support– although both are included.

After being given a tutorial on the buttons, straps, etc., I tried it on. The Vision Pro did not feel heavy or awkward. But I was disappointed that the light seal was not blocking out all of the light – there was a sliver of light under the light seal and my left and right nostrils. I was very surprised to learn that this has been an ongoing problem with these demonstrations. (Although later, I found that it did not interfere with my enjoyment of the Vision Pro. But, I was still initially a little disappointed.) Then the coup de grâce of my wait was over – I turned it on …

I heard a familiar Apple chime as it booted up. The quality of the device's sound was (and will continue to be) truly amazing. I saw the Macintosh icon in black and white. Then, I was introduced to the spatial operating system – it was neat!

To start, we had to personalize the device for me. It was a little awkward at first. No one realized that I could not pinch to manipulate with my thumb and middle finger. You have to use (at least when I visited the store last Monday) your thumb and index finger. Once we got that squared away (and for all of us, i.e., Apple employees and myself, taking the unit on and off, rebooting, inter alia), setting up the device was a breeze.

Once you are set up, you really feel immersed in a 3-D Mac OS reality. The two 4k custom micro‑OLED display systems make you think the program icons were just hanging there. Photos popped in regular, landscape, and even in 3-D (if your camera supports such a feature). Likewise, so did your movies and TV shows! The immersion videos (although limited at this time) truly made you feel, in one simulation, as if you were on the tightrope with the adventurer over the valley! You can also place your OS in various 3-D environments of many beautiful earth-bound environments and even the moon! 🌝 This will indeed have the makings of a fun device as they continue to improve the operating system and device itself...

But notice what I did not discuss. After the end of the presentation, the Apple employees asked me if I was ready to buy. I answered no. I told them (aside from that my wife may kill me for spending $3,500 plus) that the device was lacking work productivity applicability. After the presentation, I had to ask how to use a keyboard with it. They then showed me the virtual keyboard (which I did not grasp while I was there for 20–30 minutes that I had with it). I was advised that the virtual keyboard function was just not quite ready - so it was not part of their clearly structured presentation (my guide was reading from a script on his iPad mini). And they also advised me that I could use a Bluetooth keyboard with programs like Notes (and MS Word?), etc.

According to Mark German of Bloomberg, the Vision Pro may take four versions before it "reaches its ideal form — similar to the progression of the iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch." I think the Apple Vision Pro is and will be a great media consumption device - I can definitely see it as a great utility when I'm flying cramped in coach on my next flight (however, Jeff Richardson over iPhone J.D. reminds us we still need room to operate the device [and some other great tips for air travel with your new Vision Pro) and other scenarios. But just like the iPad was supposed to be the laptop killer (it's not), neither is the Vision Pro.

Maybe one day I'll get one, but not right now. Based on my experience, it seems even Apple needs to get itself up-to-speed on what the Vision Pro can and cannot do. It is rumored that Apple is preparing for a 2.0 update to the Vision Pro's OS, along with updates to other devices. These releases may reveal Apple's plans for integrating the Vision Pro into its other hardware. But right now, if I am going to spend $3,500 plus, I'll be getting a new computer (and right now, my M1 Ultra Studio is working just fine!).

MTC

My Two Cents: The First Apple Macintosh Computer Turns 40! 🥳 A Reminder For Lawyers On The Technological Shift In Legal Practice.

The first mac was release on Jan 24, 1984.

The introduction of the Macintosh computer in 1984 marked a significant turning point in the legal profession, revolutionizing how lawyers practiced law. As we commemorate 40 years since its inception, lawyers should reflect on how this technological shift transformed their work and understand its lasting impact on legal practice.

Before the advent of personal computers, legal professionals primarily relied on typewriters, handwritten documents, and physical libraries for research. This laborious process often consumed significant time and resources. However, with the introduction of Macintosh and its Graphical User Interface (GUI), lawyers were empowered with tools that, over time, would streamline their workflow and enhance efficiency. The GUI provided lawyers with a user-friendly experience through icons, windows, and menus instead of complex command lines.

today’s lawyers have much to celebrate today given apple’s gui Operating system!

I am sure there are some early Windows users screaming that "everyone" was using Windows well before Macintosh computers. And they are half right. No one could have been using Windows OS before Mac OS because Mac OS came out nearly two years before Microsoft's GUI-based Windows. So, Mac wins, right? Kind of.

Although Mac's GUI was released before Windows OS, Windows was more widely used than Macs. The public's perception was that Macs were geared toward a more creative audience. In contrast, Windows computers were geared toward those in the business world, especially since Windows machines were networked before Macs were. Plus, Mac's first GUI word processing program, MacWrite, had some serious limitations when first introduced.

The first Mac cost about $2,495 ($7,500 in today's dollars) - the first Mac had a built-in screen and mouse and 128kb of memory - think about it, 1,000,000 kb equals 1 GB!

So, let's be clear: the initial release of the Macintosh Computer was not the immediate answer for how lawyers work today. Instead, its GUI-based operating system initiated the journey toward modern computing, incorporating word processing, file and case management, and web-based research. This evolution continues to shape lawyers' digital landscape today.

Happy Birthday, Macintosh!

My Two Cents: Harnessing The Power Of Podcasting: How Lawyers Can Benefit From A Podcasting Marketing Strategy - Why I went to Podfest 2024!

My third attendnace at Podfest coincide’s with it's 10th Anniversary!

In today's digital age, where attention spans are shorter than ever, finding innovative ways to engage with potential clients is crucial for lawyers and legal professionals. One such method that has gained significant traction in recent years is podcasting. By leveraging the power of podcasting, legal professionals can effectively reach their target audience, establish themselves as thought leaders in their respective fields, and ultimately grow their client base.

Podcasting offers a unique opportunity for lawyers to connect with their audience on a more personal level. Unlike written content or video, podcasts allow listeners to tune in while multitasking or during their commute. This convenience factor makes it easier for lawyers to capture the attention of busy professionals who may not have the time or patience to read lengthy articles or watch videos.

Furthermore, podcasts provide an avenue for lawyers to showcase their expertise and knowledge in a conversational manner. By hosting a podcast or appearing as a guest on relevant legal podcasts, attorneys can discuss current legal issues, share insights into complex cases, and offer practical advice to listeners. This not only helps lawyers build credibility but also establishes them as trusted authorities in their areas of specialization.

By consistently producing high-quality podcast content related to their practice areas, lawyers can attract a dedicated audience of potential clients who are genuinely interested in what they have to say. These listeners may be seeking specific legal services or simply looking for informative content related to the law. In either case, by providing valuable insights through podcast episodes, attorneys can position themselves as go-to resources within their niche.  (Lawyers can also host and appear on podcasts for topics outside their practice area; sometimes being an authority in another area translates to the listener that you may be an authority in the area of law your practice.)

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Dr. Drew Headlines!

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Selfie w Dr. Drew!

Additionally, podcasting offers an opportunity for lawyers to network and collaborate with other industry professionals. Attending events like Podfest 2024 allows legal professionals not only to gain insights from experienced podcasters and producers (e.g., finding the right hardware, learning how to use podcasting software, how to offload some or all of the production, how to repurpose your podcast in other social medial platforms, using LinkedIn to promote your podcast and your brand ... ) but also connect with influential individuals within the industry who may become valuable referral sources or even potential clients themselves - I ended up giving out my work business card so often that I ran out of card!

Another significant advantage of podcasting is its ability to enhance search engine optimization (SEO) efforts. Podcast episodes can be transcribed and turned into written content, which can then be published alongside the audio file on a website or blog. This multimedia approach not only caters to different types of audience preferences but also improves the discoverability of the podcast through search engines and improves your own SEO.

By incorporating relevant keywords into podcast titles, descriptions, and transcripts, lawyers can increase their online visibility and attract organic traffic to their websites.

Group photo from Podfest 2024 VIP Business Podcaster Mastermind Session
Thank you @Joe Fier for a great Roundtable!!!

Harnessing the power of podcasting can be a game-changer for lawyers and legal professionals looking to expand their reach and build a strong online presence. By engaging with potential clients in a personal and informative manner, attorneys can establish themselves as trusted authorities within their fields while attracting a dedicated audience that may ultimately convert into valuable clients. With its unique ability to reach busy professionals on-the-go and enhance SEO efforts, podcasting is an effective marketing strategy that should not be overlooked by legal professionals seeking growth in today's digital landscape.

I hope to see you at the next Podfest or maybe at the 2024 Podcast Movement held in DC this August 2024!

MTC!!!

My Two Cents: The Future Of Lawyering: Exploring The Impact Of Apple's Vision Pro On Legal Professionals!

Has Apple's new Vision Pro created a breakthrough in augmented reality for the legal profession in the business world?

As legal professionals strive to enhance efficiency, improve client service, and streamline workflows, we increasingly turn to innovative technological solutions. One such solution that has generated significant interest within the legal community is Apple's Vision Pro.

Apple's Vision Pro is an augmented reality (AR) device developed by the tech giant, specifically focusing on aiding professionals in various fields. This cutting-edge device combines advanced optics, powerful processing capabilities, and seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem to deliver an immersive AR experience. While initially targeted at creative industries such as design and architecture, legal professionals are now exploring its potential applications within their own domain.

Apple’s new vision Pro
© Apple

I can see how this kind of technology holds the potential to revolutionize courtroom presentations, transitioning from static displays to engaging, interactive 3D visualizations. Attorneys could employ this AR prowess to project dynamic reconstructions of crime scenes or accidents, offering juries and judges an unparalleled perspective into complex evidence. Beyond the courtroom, the Vision Pro can help and possibly improve the day-to-day work (especially for people with certain health conditions or impairments[1]). 

For example, Vision Pro's potential to redefine legal research and document review is significant. It should enable attorneys to overlay case law, statutes, or annotations onto physical documents, thereby integrating digital information into the tangible world and expediting the research process. Augmented related can help improve collaboration amongst staff or when conducting depositions – giving parties the “feeling” they are all in the same room despite being miles away from each other. 

Will apple’s vision pro take lawyers in a new direction for their trial work?

Apple’s Vision Pro should provide lawyers with file management similar to any other technological device.  It should give an attorney the ability to access ?all? of the web-based tools they need – research, law practice management platform, file storage, etc. (I put the "all" in question marks as we will have to see if the devices OS has any compatibility issues.) Apple’s Vision Pro OS provides similar security as it does for its other products.  So, maintaining privilege and confidentiality should not be an issue for lawyers. Does that mean you should run out to buy one? 🧐

The Vision Pro starts at $3,499.  And it only provides 256 GB hard drive.  The battery lasts two hours.  And it is brand new.  While Apple is known for making great products, sometimes it’s not always best to be first in line to buy a new Apple product -- just like Apple is known for not being the first to create a new type of product -- just a good product after it has had some time to review the competition.

I remember how excited I was to get my first ipad - but it was no laptop killer!🙄

I remember when the iPad came first out.  It was nice, but at the time, I could not afford one.  At the time, my mother was astonished I did not have one (as I explained, I had to prioritize my spending) and was gifted one soon after (thanks, Grandma Harriet!).  Are you ready to go out and buy more than a baker’s dozen for a jury, the judge, and court staff?

The iPad is a great device, but it never became the laptop killer some were hoping it would be.  Given the cost and newness of the device, I’ll wait for a few versions before I go out and get one.

(Unfortunately, Grandma Harriet is no longer with us. 🙁 But if anyone wants to buy me one, I won’t complain! 🥳)

[1] Editor’s note: This aspect of Vision Pro (and other augmented reality devices) is beyond this editorial's scope.

Are Lawyers At Risk? 🧐 How Relying On Smartphones May Impact Cognitive Health. 😬

In recent years, smartphones have become an indispensable tool for lawyers, aiding us in various aspects of our profession. However, as attorneys increasingly rely on these devices to perform our daily tasks, concerns about the potential impact on our cognitive health and mental well-being have arisen. Cognitive decline refers to the gradual deterioration of brain function over time, affecting memory, attention span, decision-making abilities, and overall cognitive performance. While aging is a natural contributor to cognitive decline, emerging research indicates that excessive smartphone use may exacerbate this phenomenon. For lawyers who depend on our mental sharpness and critical thinking skills to analyze complex legal cases and develop effective arguments, any factors that hinder cognitive function could be detrimental to our professional success.

overloading our brains due to smartphone use may have a negative impact on our cognitive Health!

One of the primary concerns regarding smartphone usage is its potential to contribute to cognitive overload among lawyers. With constant access to emails, messages, notifications, and a myriad of other applications, lawyers are often bombarded with information throughout the day. This continuous influx of data can lead to cognitive overload, making it difficult for lawyers to focus on important tasks, ultimately impacting our mental well-being. The irony cannot be ignored, given that many attorneys were already distracted before the incorporation of instantaneous information from our smartphones as we wait for that important phone call or letter (oftentimes only to be received the next day we return to our office to receive our overnight messages or our finally delivered USPS mail).

Studies have shown that excessive smartphone use can lead to decreased attention spans and reduced ability to concentrate for extended periods. Lawyers require a high level of concentration and attention to detail when working on complex legal cases. The multitasking behaviors promoted by smartphones may also harm a lawyer's cognitive performance in the long run. While juggling multiple tasks simultaneously might seem efficient at first, research suggests that multitasking can lead to decreased productivity and increased errors. Lawyers who are constantly switching between smartphone activities and legal tasks or just juggling multiple cases on our smartphones may experience cognitive overload. This may impair our ability to think critically and make sound decisions. This may also diminish our ability to quickly recall vast amounts of legal knowledge. If prolonged smartphone usage hampers these cognitive abilities over time, it could potentially jeopardize the quality of our work and increase our stress levels.

The “physics” and “stress” of late night smartphone use may have a negative impact on our health!

Smartphones have been found to disrupt sleep patterns due to increased exposure to blue light emitted by screens. Lawyers often work long hours and may be tempted to check work-related emails or engage in other professional activities using our smartphones late into the night. The negative impact on sleep quality can lead to fatigue and impaired daily cognitive function.

Then, there is the addictive nature of smartphones. Social media platforms, news apps, games - all these distractions can easily consume valuable time that could be spent engaging in activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise or spending time with loved ones. For lawyers who already face demanding work schedules and high-stress levels inherent in our profession, addiction or over-reliance on smartphones may exacerbate these issues, leading to burnout and decreased mental well-being.

Finding daily balance and limits on our smartphone use at work may prove important to our smartphone use!

While smartphones undoubtedly offer convenience and productivity benefits to lawyers, it is crucial for legal professionals to find a balance between utilizing these devices effectively and protecting our cognitive health. Implementing strategies such as setting boundaries for smartphone use, employing time management techniques, and practicing mindfulness can help mitigate the potential negative effects on mental well-being. Recognizing these risks and adopting strategies to manage smartphone use effectively can help attorneys maintain our cognitive health while navigating the demands of our profession.

MTC

Happy Lawyering!

My Two Cents: Happy New Year! AI Is Going To Be The Biggest Game Changer For Lawyers In 2024!

Lawyers celebrating 2024 with AI - at least according to DALL*E!

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been making significant strides in various industries, and the legal profession is no exception. As technology continues to evolve, I believe that AI will become the biggest game changer for lawyers in 2024. Law practice management platforms are already integrating AI into their software, allowing attorneys to streamline their workflows and enhance their overall efficiency. While some concerns have been raised regarding AI's potential to replace attorneys entirely, Chief John Roberts, in his 2023 report, believes that AI will not replace lawyers (or at least judges). 🤗 However, legal professionals must remain cautious of the limitations of AI technology, as highlighted by former Trump attorney fixer Michael Cohen.

AI has the potential to automate repetitive tasks and streamline complex legal processes, allowing attorneys to focus more on strategic and high-value work. Law practice management platforms are incorporating AI-powered features that assist with various aspects of legal practice, from research document analysis to contract review and client communication.

Traditionally, lawyers spend countless hours sifting through vast amounts of information to find relevant cases, statutes, and regulations. However, with AI-powered research tools integrated into law practice management and legal research platforms, attorneys can now conduct comprehensive searches in a fraction of the time. These tools utilize machine learning algorithms that continuously learn from past searches and user interactions to deliver highly accurate results tailored to specific legal queries.

CJ Roberts has an opinion about AI’s Place in the practice of law.

In addition to research assistance, AI is also transforming how lawyers manage documents. Document analysis tasks that were once tedious and time-consuming can now be automated using advanced natural language processing techniques. Law practice management platforms equipped with AI capabilities can quickly analyze contracts, identify key provisions or clauses, and generate summaries or comparisons. This not only saves valuable time but also reduces the risk of human error inherent in manual document review processes.

Client communication is another crucial aspect of legal practice that benefits from AI integration. Law firms often handle large volumes of client inquiries via emails or phone calls. By utilizing AI-powered chatbots or virtual assistants embedded within law practice management software, attorneys can provide prompt responses while managing multiple client interactions simultaneously. These intelligent assistants can understand natural language queries, offer basic legal advice based on predefined parameters set by attorneys themselves, or redirect clients to appropriate resources within the platform.

AI is not going to be replacing lawyers but lawyers who do not use AI will be replaced.

But will AI replace lawyers?  A recent federal case in a U.S. District Court in Illinois dismissed a case against the "robot lawyer" DoNotPay, Inc.  The defendant "...offers an online, subscription-based service that it claims will help consumers “[f]ight corporations, beat bureaucracy and sue anyone at the press of a button.” It offers services related to marriage annulment, speeding ticket appeals, timeshare cancellation, breach of contract, defamation, copyright, child support, restraining order"  This non-lawyer is currently free to operate.  But since it was dismissed on standing issues, I won't be surprised if this case (and others similar to it) won't find its way to the courthouse.

Despite this news, Chief John Roberts asserts that AI will not replace attorneys entirely.  He argues that while AI can assist lawyers by handling repetitive tasks or providing legal insights, the human element of legal practice, such as critical thinking and empathy, remains irreplaceable. AI's limitations in understanding nuance and complex emotions make it unlikely to replace the nuanced advice and strategic thinking that lawyers provide their clients.

But caution must still be exercised when relying on AI technology. Michael Cohen, former Trump attorney fixer, serves as a reminder that AI is not infallible. Cohen's experience with using AI-powered software for document review revealed its limitations: He provided in a "sworn declaration in federal court in Manhattan that he did not realize the citations generated by Google Bard [that he provided his attorney] were fictitious.[1] (Why his attorney, i.e., the party who signed the legal pleading, did not check the citations before submitting the pleading to the court is something I have warned about in the past.) This emphasizes the importance of lawyers remaining vigilant and thoroughly reviewing AI-generated results to ensure their accuracy.

Lawyers should be celebrating 2024 with AI as it will likely be part of the practice of law!

I predict AI to be the biggest game changer for lawyers in 2024. As technology continues to advance rapidly, embracing AI as a valuable tool while acknowledging its limitations will be essential for legal professionals in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the legal profession.

MTC

Happy New Year and Happy Lawyering!

[1] https://www.reuters.com/legal/ex-trump-fixer-michael-cohen-says-ai-created-fake-cases-court-filing-2023-12-29/

My Two Cents: Lawyers! Watch Out For Scammers On Amazon/Online When Buying Electronics, As You May Get Something Else!!!

be careful - DIGITAL SCAMMERS WILL TRY TO RUIN YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING!

During the Holiday Season in today's digital age, online shopping for lawyers has become a convenient and popular way to purchase various products, including electronics. However, with the rise in popularity of online marketplaces like Amazon, scammers have also found new avenues to exploit unsuspecting buyers. As a result, it is crucial for lawyers to stay vigilant and protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes: it is essential to exercise caution and adopt certain preventive measures.

Scammers often employ deceptive tactics such as selling counterfeit or misrepresented electronic devices. They may advertise high-end gadgets at unbelievably low prices or use persuasive techniques to mislead customers into making hasty purchases. Once the purchase is made, customers receive a completely different or counterfeit product instead.

ALWAYS USE SECURE PAYMENT METHODS WHEN PURCHASING PRODUCTS ONLINE!

Another common scam involves sellers who disappear after receiving payment. These fraudsters often create fake profiles and offer attractive deals on high-demand electronics. Once payment is made, they vanish without delivering the purchased item or providing any means of contact.

Some scammers exploit unsuspecting buyers by selling stolen or refurbished goods as brand-new products. These items may come with hidden defects or missing accessories, which significantly diminish their value. Worse yet, you may hear from the authorities about stolen goods you unwittingly purchased. 

Always use secure payment methods like credit cards or PayPal.

😀 ☃️ 🚨

Always use secure payment methods like credit cards or PayPal. 😀 ☃️ 🚨

Always utilize secure payment methods such as credit cards or trusted third-party services like PayPal.

MAKE SURE YOU ARE DEALING WITH A REPUTABLE SELLER BEFORE MAKING ANY ONLINE PURCHASE!

It is always best to buy from reputable sellers or authorized dealers.  Do your due diligence and check the seller's reputation. If there are discrepancies between what is advertised and what is described in reviews or customer feedback, exercise caution before making a purchase. If any information appears vague or inconsistent, consider reaching out to the seller for clarification before making a purchase. Trust your instincts. If something feels off about a seller or listing, it's better to err on the side of caution and choose another reputable source for your electronic needs, even if you are paying more than the questionable “deal.”