Monday Morning Humor: Flashback - What we thought of "portable" for computers 44 years ago!

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In 1980, "portable" computers were like carrying a briefcase full of bricks, with machines like the Osborne 1 weighing around 24 pounds.

By the 1990s, laptops like the IBM ThinkPad and Apple PowerBook made portability a bit more practical, though still hefty enough to double as a doorstop.

Fast forward to the 2000s, and we have ultrabooks, tablets, and smartphones.

Today, our "portable" tech is so advanced that even a lawyer’s least favorite document fits into their pocket.

What’s next, wearable gavel 👨‍⚖️ watches ⌚︎?!

Episode #92: Finding the Right Crossroads for AI Use, Success, and the Law, Troy Doucette of AI. law.

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In the legal landscape, the adoption of new technologies offers remarkable benefits. Tools like AI-driven document drafting systems empower attorneys to efficiently create complex legal documents without needing advanced technical skills. Embracing these kinds of technologies will save time and allow legal professionals to focus on higher-value tasks.

Troy Doucet is a top-rated litigation attorney, legal tech innovator, and the founder of AI.Law, a legal document drafting system. Having studied economics in college and built a prestigious practice as a litigation lawyer, he has a unique viewpoint on the revolutionary possibilities of artificial intelligence. His knowledge of the litigation process is currently being directed toward creating artificial intelligence to increase accessibility to the legal system. Troy frequently lectures about the impact of artificial intelligence on the legal sector and how it will fundamentally change the way lawyers provide services. Troy has taught multiple programs on consumer law, real estate law, and AI.

Troy and I discuss the following three questions and more!

  1. What are the top three things AI.Law can do either faster or better than an attorney who does not use AI.Law?

  2. What are three ways AI dot law prevents hallucinations, and what are the top three things attorneys should do when using AI to help draft their documents, prevent you to prevent hallucinations?

  3.   What inspired you to create AI.Law?

In our conversation, we cover:

[01.29] Tech setup – Troy’s current tech setup.

[02.44] AI.Law – Troy explains how AI.Law works on mobile devices.

[05.00] Learning obstacles – Troy shares how he shifted from Android to Apple.

[08.41] The benefits – The advantages of using AI.Law.

[11.44] Computer proficiency – Troy explains why lawyers don’t need advanced technical skills to use AI.Law.

[13.52] Efficiency – Troy explains how AI.Law can save time and allows legal professionals to focus on higher-value tasks.

[18.25] Hallucinations – A guide to minimize hallucinations.

[21.09] Other AIs – Troy talks about the AI products he uses other than AI.Law.

[22.17] The inspiration – Troy explains what inspired him to create AI.Law.

[26.00] Terms of Services – The terms of services people should look out for when using AI.

[29.48] The usage of AI – The importance of choosing the AI that will work best for you.

[33.40] Do It Yourself – Troy explains his take on lawyers using AI as a DIY service.

[38.29] Emotional component – How AI can help people in unexpected situations in life. 

Resources:

Connect with Troy

SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE FOR NEW USERS AT AI.LAW:  "Tech Savvy"

🚨

SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE FOR NEW USERS AT AI.LAW:  "Tech Savvy" 🚨

Equipment Mentioned in the Podcast

Software & Services Mentioned in the Podcast

Equipment Mentioned in the Podcast

Software & Services Mentioned in the Podcast

Shout Out to Caroline Elefant of MyShingle for Reminding Lawyers About Their Bar Ethics Responsibilities When Creating Public Use ChatGPTs!

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Previous The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Podcast guest Caroline Elefant of MyShingle discusses the legal and ethical issues of creating custom ChatGPTs for public use by law firms. Key points include:

Lawyers need to remember that they have ethical responsibilities to their bar when offering chatgpts for public use!

  • AI Disclosure: Lawyers must inform users they are interacting with an AI, not a human.

  • Supervision: Ensuring AI outputs are accurate through constant testing and clear disclaimers.

  • Confidentiality: Advising users against sharing personal details to prevent privacy breaches.

  • Unauthorized Practice of Law: Avoiding legal advice by providing general information with clear disclaimers.

We all must remember that a computer or AI does not replace human judgment!

For more details, visit her article on MySingle.

Highlights from My Recent Interview on MacVoices: AI, Mac Products, and the Upcoming MacStock 8 Conference"

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Some highlights from my interview with Chuck Joiner from MacVoices about the Road to MacStock 8!

Recently, I had the pleasure of joining Chuck Joiner on his popular show, MacVoices, to discuss several fascinating topics that I’m passionate about. This interview was a comprehensive preview of what to expect from the upcoming 2024 MacStock 8 conference, where I’ll be presenting on the exciting intersection of artificial intelligence and Apple products. For those who missed it, here’s a highlight reel of our engaging conversation.

Will I see you this weekend at Macstock?!

One of the primary subjects we tackled was my forthcoming presentation at MacStock 8. My session titled "Harnessing AI for Enhanced Productivity with Mac Products" will delve into practical ways that AI can revolutionize how we use our Macs for both professional and personal tasks. From the get-go, I emphasized that AI is not just a futuristic concept but a present-day reality that can significantly reduce repetitive tasks, simplify complex processes, and free up valuable time for more critical activities.

Chuck and I discussed several AI tools and applications that Macintosh users can integrate into their workflow. Most notably, we touched on automation tools like TextExpander and Hazel, which can be supercharged with AI to perform tasks more efficiently. I shared some insider tips on how AI can help with creating sophisticated Hazel rules or simplifying Apple Scripts, even if you don’t have a programming background.

Check out Chuck’s podcast Macvoices!

We also explored how AI can be a game-changer for legal professionals. As a practicing attorney myself, I've leveraged AI to streamline various operations, from drafting documents to managing large volumes of case files. I highlighted how tools like ChatGPT can assist in generating initial drafts, while emphasizing the crucial need for human oversight to verify facts and ensure accuracy.

Our discussion took a deeper dive into new AI technologies and their real-world applications. For instance, I shared insights on using AI for automated legal research, predictive analytics to forecast case outcomes, and even virtual legal assistants that can handle client interactions. These advancements are not only making legal work more efficient but also more accessible to individuals who may not have the resources to afford traditional legal services.

Enjoy!

You can check out the full interview here on Chuck's MacVoices website.

* Note this week's editorial is canceled as I am preparing last minute details to my presentation and keeping work afloat my day job!  😀

Why Lawyers Should Teach Tech Skills – The Tech-Savvy Lawyer will Present at the 2024 MacStock 8 Conference!

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lawyers can get so many benefits from teaching other lawyers on how to use technology!

Lawyers should teach technology skills to fellow attorneys. Teaching not only reinforces the lawyer’s expertise but also improves the legal profession and helps others succeed. It creates a community of tech-savvy lawyers who can better serve clients. 

This is one of the reasons why I’ll be presenting at this year’s MacStock 8 conference. MacStock is a conference for Apple enthusiasts who are looking to hang out with like-minded people and “level” up their skills. I enjoy my Apple computer products, and I enjoy sharing with others the skills I have learned over the years. I hope my presentation supplements my commitment to sharing valuable tech skills with others both in and out of the legal field.

Lawyers, you do not necessarily need to teach a course or CLE to share knowledge.  It can be as simple as a passing suggestion or spending a few minutes helping a fellow lawyer, court staff, or, gasp, even your opposing counsel.

By teaching technology, lawyers foster innovation, efficiency, and collaboration in law practice. It's a win-win that benefits both teachers and learners.

MTC

You Can Still Get Tickets To MacStock 8!

🧑🏻‍💻

You Can Still Get Tickets To MacStock 8! 🧑🏻‍💻

For those interested in attending MacStock 8, it will be held outside of Chicago. Tickets are still available here. If you use the code TECHSAVVYLAWYER (expires 7/11/2024), you can get $30 off your Weekend Pass ticket price.

Don’t worry if you can’t travel ✈️ —there is a digital on-demand option, too! The Digital Pass delivers MacStock’s Saturday and Sunday sessions to you on-demand approximately 30 days after MacStock Weekend

Word of the Week:  What do they mean by Natural Language Processing? 🧐

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NLP is just a component in the makeup of the AI that lawyers need to learn in order to stay competitive today and in the future!

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a branch of artificial intelligence (AI) that enables computers to understand and interpret human language. It works by combining computational linguistics with machine learning to analyze text and speech. NLP can automate tasks like document review and legal research, making processes more efficient. But, it won't replace lawyers.

NLP can't think like a human. It can only review data. Thus, NLP cannot carry out important critical thinking and understand important nuances of facts and law. So, lawyers who don't adopt NLP and AI tools risk falling behind.

Lawyers need to embrace Natural Language Processing & Artificial Intelligence technologies to stay competitive and enhance their services to their clients!

💻⚖️

Lawyers need to embrace Natural Language Processing & Artificial Intelligence technologies to stay competitive and enhance their services to their clients! 💻⚖️

 #LegalTech 💻⚖️ #AIinLaw 🤖 #LawFirmInnovation 🚀 NLP 🌐 #FutureOfLaw 📈

🎙️ Episode 91: How Lawyers Could 📈 Improve Their 📹 Online Videos with Mark Wonderlin! 🎬

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In a world where video content reigns supreme, lawyers can elevate their DIY videos with expert tips while avoiding common mistakes, making their marketing strategies more impactful. Companies like Mosaic Media Films can further enhance attorney videos, ensuring captivating, high-converting content that solidifies a law firm's digital presence and client engagement.

Meet Mark Wonderlin, the founder of Mosaic Media Films. With a creative approach to business videos, Mark helps companies create content that captivates and converts, driving traffic and boosting sales. His expertise lies in aligning video strategies with clients' marketing goals.

Join Mark and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

  1. What are the top three reasons professionals like lawyers need video on their web pages, social media, marketing, etc?

  2. What are the top three ways lawyers can improve their DIY videos?

  3. Without naming names, what are the top three mistakes you've seen professionals like lawyers make in their videos?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[01:30] Mark's Tech Setup

[11:16] Top Three Tips for DIY Videos

[14:15] Top 3 Reasons Lawyers Need Video in Their Digital Marketing Strategy

[16:11] Top 3 Tips for Lawyers to Enhance Their DIY Videos

[21:58] Top 3 Ways Companies Like Mosaic Can Enhance Attorneys' Video Content

[27:33] Top 3 Common Mistakes Lawyers Make in Their Videos

[32:35] Learn More About Mosaic Media Films

Resources:

Connect with Mark:

Hardware mentioned in the conversation:

🚨BOLO: Lawyers Beware of Fake Chrome Errors Hijacking Computers!🚨

/ The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page/

Lawyers beware of browser pop-ups! It could lead to malware and bar ethics issues!!!

A new cybersecurity threat is targeting Google Chrome users.[1] Fake error messages are being used to hijack computers. These deceptive pop-ups trick users into thinking their system have critical issues. Once users engage with these messages, they risk downloading malicious software or giving remote access to hackers.

Key Points of the Threat:

  • Fake error messages mimic genuine Chrome alerts.

  • The goal is to panic users into taking immediate action.

  • Engaging with these messages can lead to malware installation or remote control of the computer.

  • Lawyers, due to their sensitive data, are particularly at risk.

Proactive Tips for Lawyers Using Chrome: 

Recognize Fake Error Messages -

  • Be aware that Chrome does not display critical error messages urging immediate action.

  • Verify any error message by checking Chrome's official support pages or consulting IT support.

Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Pop-Ups:

  • Do not click on any unexpected pop-ups or error messages.

  • Close the tab or window immediately if a suspicious message appears.

Keep Software Updated:

  • Ensure Chrome and all other software are up-to-date.

  • Regular updates often include security patches that protect against new threats.

Install a Reliable Antivirus Program:

  • Use trusted antivirus software to scan for and remove malware.

  • Regularly update your antivirus program to protect against the latest threats.

Use Pop-Up Blockers:

  • Enable pop-up blockers in Chrome to prevent unwanted messages from appearing.

  • Adjust settings to block sites known for malicious content.

Educate Your Team:

‼️ be careful: Browser pop-ups could be malicious actors trying to hack into your computer! ‼️

  • Inform all staff members about the fake error message threat.

  • Provide training on how to identify and respond to suspicious activity.

Backup Important Data:

  • Regularly back up all important files to a secure location.

  • Ensure backups are complete and can be restored if needed.

Review and Update Security Policies:

  • Update your firm’s cybersecurity policies to include guidance on handling fake error messages.

  • Ensure all employees are aware of and follow these policies.

Monitor Network Activity:

  • Increase monitoring for unusual activity on your network.

  • Use tools to detect and respond to potential threats quickly.

Consult with IT Professionals:

  • Work with IT experts to enhance your cybersecurity measures.

  • Seek advice on the best practices to protect your firm from these types of attacks.

Report Suspicious Activity:

Lawyers beware of browser pop-ups! You could expose your client’s sensitive informaiton to bad actors!

  • Report any suspicious messages or activity to your IT department immediately.

  • Document the incident for future reference and analysis.

Use Secure Browsing Practices:

  • Avoid visiting suspicious websites or downloading unknown software.

  • Use secure, verified websites for all browsing and downloads.

Stay tuned 📺 as your TSL continues to monitor 👀 this issue and provide updates! 📢

Stay tuned 📺 as your TSL continues to monitor 👀 this issue and provide updates! 📢

Follow The Tech-Savvy Lawyer Blog as we will continue to monitor this issue and provide updates. Stay vigilant and proactive in protecting your digital environment. These measures will help safeguard your practice and maintain the confidentiality of your client information. Stay tuned for more insights and recommendations on cybersecurity threats.

Happy Lawyering!

[1] https://lifehacker.com/tech/ignore-these-fake-chrome-errors-that-hijack-your-computer

What Lawyer's Should Do Before Their Chatbots or DIY Services Fail: Lessons from Meta's Small Claims Court Saga! 🤖⚖️

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Clients are coming up with creative ways to get a service providers attention when the chatBot or online DIY service does not meet their expectations…

In an era where technology is reshaping the legal landscape, a recent trend involving Meta (formerly Facebook) offers valuable insights for law firms venturing into chatbots and online DIY services. The phenomenon of users turning to small claims courts as the de facto means to resolve issues with Meta's platforms highlights the importance of effective digital customer service. Lawyers should see Meta's customer service failure that results in small litigation as a warning that when using chatbots or providing online DIY services they still need to keep a human hand in these communications to prevent future bar complaints!

The Case In Chief 📱🏛️

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has faced an unusual challenge. Users, frustrated with account lockouts and bans, have resorted to filing small claims lawsuits against the tech giant. This unconventional approach has surprisingly become an effective way for users to regain access to their accounts or receive compensation. So, what can the legal community learn from this?

The Lesson to Be Learned 🧑🏼‍🏫

Chatbots and DIY services are bringing low-cost and easier access to legal assistance for those who typically may not be able to afford such services from a more traditional (and perhaps one day antiquated) law firm model. However, clients want to know that they are being heard, and sometimes their "square peg" question does not fit into the "round hole" of an automated response. Similarly, the online service may not be able to provide a satisfactory answer, leaving the customer frustrated or infuriated over their wasted time and money.

It is crucial for lawyers using these digital platforms in their offices to have "real person" options as a safety net. It's much easier and cheaper for a disgruntled client or even a potential client to file a bar complaint versus going to small claims court.

Here are some takeaways and proactive steps lawyers should consider when using chatbots and online DIY services

Does your law firm have a plan to “pick up the pieces” should its chatbot fail? 😲

Key Takeaways for Law Firms 💡

  • The Importance of Human Touch 🤝

While automation can streamline processes, the Meta case underscores the value of human intervention. Law firms implementing chatbots should ensure there's an easy way for clients to escalate issues to a real person.

  • Clear Communication is Crucial 📢

Many Meta users turned to small claims courts due to a lack of clear communication channels. Law firms should prioritize transparent and accessible communication options in their digital services.

  • Anticipate and Address Common Issues 🔍

Meta's situation arose partly from recurring account access problems. When setting up online services, law firms should identify potential pain points and create dedicated resolution pathways.

  • Regular System Audits 🔄

Conduct frequent reviews of your digital services. This helps identify and rectify issues before they escalate to client frustration.

  • Empower Your Chatbot, But Know Its Limits 🤖💼

While chatbots can handle routine queries, they should be programmed to recognize complex issues that require human expertise. Ensure your system can seamlessly transfer such cases to appropriate staff.

Some Tips for Implementing These Lessons 🛠️

clients are coming up with creative ways to get an online providers attention when they think a chatbot or online diy service fails - Don’t give them reason to file a law suit or worse yet a bar complaint!

  • When developing your firm's chatbot or online DIY service:

  • Create a clear escalation process for issues the bot can't resolve

  • Provide multiple contact options for clients

  • Regularly update your FAQ and chatbot responses based on common client queries

  • Implement a feedback system to continuously improve your digital services

  • Train your staff to effectively handle cases escalated from digital platforms

Conclusion 🎯

The Meta small claims phenomenon serves as a cautionary tale for the legal tech world. It emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that leverages technology while maintaining the human element crucial to legal services.

By learning from Meta's experience, law firms can create more effective and client-friendly digital services. Likewise, in the legal world, technology should complement, not replace, the expertise and personal touch that clients expect from their legal representatives. 💻⚖️ This approach not only enhances client satisfaction but also prevents potential frustrations that could lead to unconventional problem-solving methods by clients like bar complaints. 😲

MTC