🎄 Holiday Special Tip of the Day! 🎁 Eco-Friendly Tech Tips for the Holiday Season: Recycle and Repurpose with Care and Safety! 🌿🔒

lawyers, celebrate the holidays by being responsible with your old technology! ♻️

As the holiday season is upon us, many of us eagerly anticipate gifting and receiving the latest gadgets and tech innovations. However, it's crucial to consider the environmental impact of our tech consumption and disposal habits. This year, let's embrace a more sustainable approach to our holiday tech celebrations while also keeping our homes and offices secure. 🌎

The Gift of Responsible Tech Consumption 🎁💻

Whether you are a tech-savvy lawyer or not, the joy of unwrapping a shiny new device is undeniable, but it's equally important to consider what happens to our old tech. Instead of letting outdated gadgets gather dust or end up in landfills, consider giving them a second life. As discussed in Episode 87 of The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Podcast, "Finding New Homes for Old Tech with Loren Williams of PCs for People!", there are numerous ways to repurpose and recycle old technology. 🔄

Loren shared valuable insights on how lawyers can responsibly manage their tech waste. One key takeaway is the importance of securely removing data before recycling. This not only protects sensitive information but also ensures that devices can be safely refurbished and donated to those in need. 🔐

Recycling Done Right ♻️

When it comes to recycling tech, it's not just about tossing items in the blue bin. Many electronic components require special handling. Check with local recycling programs or electronics stores for proper disposal methods. Some companies even offer trade-in programs, allowing you to offset the cost of new purchases while ensuring your old devices are recycled correctly. Apple has a great trade-in/recycling program that I use to get a little money back, repurpose older machines, and recycle ancient devices with all of my Mac devices! 💰🍏

repurposing your old tech is a great way to recycle ♻️ your old tech!

Remember, recycling goes beyond just devices. During the holiday season, we generate 25% more waste than usual. Be mindful of packaging materials, wrapping paper, and decorations. Opt for recyclable options and consider creative reuse ideas to minimize waste. 📦🎨

Repurposing: A Tech-Savvy Solution 🔧

Before rushing to recycle, consider repurposing your old tech. An outdated smartphone can become a dedicated e-reader or a smart home controller. Don't forget the younger generation! Giving them an old, disconnected, wiped device can serve as a platform for games and learning. Old phones can help those in need. Old tablets make excellent digital photo frames or kitchen recipe displays. By finding new uses for old devices, we extend their lifespan and reduce the demand for new products. 📱➡️📚

Security First: Protecting Your Home and Office 🏠🔒

While we're excited about our new tech acquisitions, it's crucial to be discreet about our holiday hauls. Leaving empty boxes of expensive gadgets outside for recycling can inadvertently signal potential thieves that valuable items are inside. Instead, break down boxes and dispose of them discreetly or wait until after the holiday season to recycle them. 📦

Creating New, Sustainable Traditions 🌟

This holiday season, why not start new traditions that combine tech-savviness with sustainability? Host a tech swap party where friends and colleagues can exchange gadgets they no longer need. Organize a group recycling day to ensure everyone's old tech is disposed of properly. These activities not only promote sustainability but also foster community among tech-savvy professionals. 🤝💚 (DON'T FORGET TO WIPE YOUR DATA OFF THE DEVICE BEFORE THE EXCHANGE - Check out these The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page articles!).

FINAL THOUGHTS 💭 🧐

While enjoying your new tech gift, don’t forget to be responsible with your old tech!

As tech-savvy legal professionals this Holiday Season (let alone any time of the year), we have a unique opportunity to lead by example in responsible tech use and disposal. By embracing these eco-friendly practices in our offices and sharing knowledge with clients, we can make a significant impact. This holiday season, let's give the gift of sustainability to our planet and carry these habits into our daily lives and professional practices for a greener future in law and technology. 🌍⚖️

Happy Holidays and Wishing You a Healthy, Prosperous, and more Environmentally Friendly New Year! 🎉🌲🥂

Tip of the Day! 💡 20 Affordable Gifts (10 tech and 10 non-tech) for Tech-Savvy Lawyers: Top Picks Under $50 for 2024 💼💻🎁

Time to find holiday gifts 🎁 that won’t break the bank for your favorite tech-savvy lawyer! 💻✨

As we approach the holiday season 🎄🎁, finding the perfect gift for the tech-savvy lawyer in your life can be a challenge 🤔. To help you navigate this task, I’ve compiled a list of top ten tech gifts 💻🔧 and ten non-tech gifts 📚☕ under $50 that are sure to delight any legal professional with a penchant for technology 👨‍⚖️👩‍⚖️. Whether it's for your boss 👔, colleague 🤝, or significant other 💑, these selections are inspired by the latest trends and discussions from The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page blog and podcasts 🎙️ throughout 2024 📅.

Top Ten Tech Gifts Under $50 🎁💻

1. Linq Digital Business Cards 📇

These innovative digital business cards are a game-changer for networking.* With a simple tap, lawyers can share their contact information, social media profiles, and even their latest podcast episode. Perfect for conferences and client meetings.

https://buy.linqapp.com/collections/cards

2. MacSparky Monthly Subscription Gift Card 🎓

Previous podcast guest david sparks popular blog is a great resource for the tech-savvy lawyer who wants to learn more about apple devices! 👩🏻‍💻

A gift card for a month's subscription to MacSparky offers access to valuable productivity tips and tech that can help any legal professional using the Mac platform.* This resource can help lawyers streamline their workflow and stay updated on the latest tech trends in the legal industry.

https://www.macsparky.com/join/

3. Anker 633 Magnetic Battery, 10,000 mAh Foldable Wireless Portable Charger, 20W USB-C Power Delivery Power Bank with Stand, Magsafe-Compatible for iPhone 16/15/14/13/12 Series 🔋

This portable charger ensures your lawyer's devices stay powered up during long days in court, on the road in or client meetings.* Its slim design fits easily in a briefcase or pocket, providing peace of mind for those crucial moments when a dead cell phone battery could be disastrous.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃

4. Logitech Pebble M350 Wireless Mouse 🐭 🖱️

A sleek, silent mouse that's perfect for working in quiet environments like libraries or shared office spaces. Its compact design and long battery life make it ideal for lawyers who frequently work on-the-go or in various locations.

https://www.logitech.com/en-us/products/mice/pebble-2-m350s-wireless-mouse.html

5. Blue Light Blocking Glasses 👓

Help protect your lawyer's eyes during long hours of screen time with these stylish blue light blocking glasses. These can reduce eye strain and potentially improve sleep quality, essential for lawyers who often work late nights reviewing documents.

https://www.diffeyewear.com/collections/blue-light-blocking-glasses

6. Bluetooth Trackers 🔍

Show your tech-savvy colleague a little love 🎁 with a thoughtful gift that won’t break your budget! 💻

Never let your lawyer misplace their keys or bag again with these handy Bluetooth trackers:

- Apple AirTag*: Perfect for iOS users, offering seamless integration with Apple devices.

https://www.apple.com/airtag/

- Tile Mate: A versatile option compatible with both iOS and Android devices.

https://www.thetileapp.com/en-us/store/tiles/mate

7. Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) 🔊

This smart speaker can help manage schedules, set reminders, and even brief on the latest legal news. It's a versatile assistant for lawyers, helping them stay organized and informed hands-free. (Warning:  Check terms of service and make sure Amazon is not eavesdropping on privileged/private communication! Personally, I’d go for the Apple Air Pod* (but its $99 and didn’t meet the criteria of this list).

https://www.amazon.com/Echo-Dot/dp/B07XJ8C8F5

8. Anker PowerWave Pad Qi-Certified Wireless Charger ⚡

A fast, efficient wireless charging pad for smartphones and other Qi-enabled devices. Universally friendly to most Qi-enabled smartphones (check with the manufacture). This charger eliminates cable clutter on a lawyer's desk and ensures their devices are always ready to go.

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerWave-Qi-Certified-Compatible-Fast-Charging/dp/B07DBX67NC

9. Jabra soundcore V30i 🎧

These affordable earbuds offer great sound quality for podcast listening and clear audio for calls. Perfect for lawyers who need to take confidential calls on-the-go or want to catch up on legal podcasts during their commute. 🤗

https://www.soundcore.com/products/v30i-a3873-open-ear-earbuds?ref=open-ear-headphones

10. Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook 📓

This eco-friendly notebook allows lawyers to digitize their handwritten notes easily. It's perfect for those who prefer handwriting but need the convenience of digital storage and organization.

https://getrocketbook.com/products/rocketbook-core

Top Ten Non-Tech Gifts Under $50 🎁

1. Staufs Coffee Sampler ☕️

My favorite regional coffee shop/brewer that was recently rated #3 in a national pole on regional coffee shops!

A selection of rich, flavorful blends from this regional coffee brewery to fuel long work hours.* This is my personal favorite! I’ve been a customer of theirs for years.  The last place I moved to while living in Columbus, OH was in part because it was four to five blocks away from their main store in Grandview, OH. 🤗
Note free shipping for orders over $50!

https://www.staufs.com/shop-all-coffee

2. "The Tech Contracts Handbook" by David W. Tollen 📚

This comprehensive guide to technology contracts is a valuable resource for any tech-savvy lawyer.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃

3. Personalized Desk Nameplate 🏷️

Add a touch of professionalism to your lawyer's workspace with a custom nameplate.

https://www.etsy.com/search?q=lawyer+Personalized+Desk+Nameplate&is_personalizable=true

4. Lawyer-Themed Socks 🧦

Inject some fun into your lawyer's wardrobe with these quirky, profession-specific socks.

https://shop.nypl.org/products/lawyer-socks

5. "The Anxious Lawyer" by Jeena Cho and Karen Gifford 🧘‍♀️

A book offering an eight-week program on meditation and mindfulness, created by lawyers for lawyers.

https://jeenacho.com/the-anxious-lawyer-book/

6. Legal-Themed Art Print 🖼️

Stand out at your holiday party 🎉 by giving a gift that gets you noticed—thoughtful, tech-savvy, and memorable! 🎁✨

Decorate your lawyer's office with a tasteful print featuring legal motifs or famous courthouses.

https://www.fulcrumgallery.com/c37592/law-office-art.htm

7. Money Clip w Air Tag Holder 💵 🏷️

This practical gift combines a stylish money clip with an AirTag holder, ensuring your lawyer's wallet is always traceable and organized. These money clips offers a blend of technology and functionality at an affordable price.*

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃

8. Gavel-Shaped Whiskey Decanter Set 🥃

A unique and conversation-starting gift for the lawyer who enjoys a good drink after a long day.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃 

9. Moleskine Precious and Ethical Notebook 📔

A high-quality notebook for jotting down ideas, whether in the courtroom or during podcast brainstorming sessions.

https://www.moleskine.com/en-us/gift-guide/best-gifts-under-50/precious-ethical-notebook-petroleum-8056598859430.html

10. Lawyer-Themed Coffee Mug ⚖️

A witty mug to brighten up their morning coffee routine.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃 

A Personal Note on Gift-Giving 🎁💭

During this season of gathering with friends, colleagues, and family, show your appreciation with a thoughtful gift—perfect for the tech-savvy lawyer who makes every day brighter. 🎁

Whether you opt for a cutting-edge gadget 🔧 or a classic non-tech item 📚, each gift on our list is designed to enhance productivity 📈, foster well-being 🧘‍♀️, or simply bring a smile 😊 to your favorite legal eagle 🦅⚖️. Remember, it's not just about the gift itself, but the thought behind it 💭❤️. By choosing one of these items, you're showing that you understand and appreciate the unique challenges and interests of the modern, tech-savvy lawyer 💼💻.

Here's to making the season brighter 🌟 for the legal professionals in your life, one thoughtful gift at a time! Happy gifting! 🎉🎊

Have a Happy Holiday Season!

❄️❅☃️❆❄️

Have a Happy Holiday Season! ❄️❅☃️❆❄️

I'm Off to a Conference! ✈️ 10 Essential Tech Tips for Lawyers Attending Professional Conferences!

Don’t forget to maintain your computer’s security when you attend public conferences!

I’m off to this year’s 2024 Lex Summit in Salt Lake City, Utah! As a lawyer attending professional conferences, whether it's for the American Bar Association, State Bar Associations, or Law Practice Management events, staying connected and secure is crucial. Here are some key tech considerations to keep in mind:

Secure Your Connection

When using free conference Wi-Fi, always connect through a VPN (Virtual Private Network). This encrypts your internet traffic, protecting sensitive client information and your personal data from potential eavesdroppers on the public network.

Guard Your Devices

Never leave your laptop, tablet, or smartphone unattended in conference rooms, even for a quick break. If you must step away, lock your screen or shut down completely. Additionally, ensure all your devices are password-protected in case of loss or theft.

Power Management

Don't count on having access to power outlets during sessions. Not all conferences provide extension cords for attendees. Bring a fully charged portable battery pack and consider a laptop with long battery life. If you do find an outlet, be courteous and share with fellow attendees.  Don’t forget to bring a surge protector with both single and multiple outlets (to share with your neighbors) to protect your tech from a power surge – you don’t want to your tech fried!

Some helpful tips when lawyers are attending conferences!

Strategic Seating

If you plan to work during sessions, choose your seat wisely. Look for spots near power outlets (if available) and with a clear view of presenters. End-of-row seats can provide easy access without disturbing others (PS: My favorite seat! 

Silent Mode

Always silence your devices before sessions begin. Nothing disrupts a presentation more than unexpected rings, dings, or notification sounds. Consider using vibrate mode for important alerts.

Digital Networking

Prepare for efficient contact exchanges. Have digital business cards ready through apps like Linq, or familiarize yourself with your smartphone's built-in contact-sharing features (like Apple's AirDrop for iPhone users).

Cloud Backup

Before the conference, ensure all your important files are backed up to a secure cloud service. This provides peace of mind and allows access to crucial documents if your device is lost or damaged.

Two-Factor Authentication

techNOLOGY SECURITY IS PARAMOUnt in public even when you are among a group of lawyers! 🙃

Enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts, especially email and cloud storage. This adds an extra layer of security if your device falls into the wrong hands. 

Update Everything

Before leaving for the conference, update your devices' operating systems, antivirus software, and all applications. This ensures you have the latest security patches and features.

Privacy Screens

Consider using a privacy screen protector for your laptop and mobile devices. These prevent visual hacking by limiting the viewing angle of your screen – particularly useful in crowded conference settings.

By following these tech tips, you can focus on networking, learning, and representing your firm professionally without worrying about tech mishaps or security breaches. Remember, in the legal profession, protecting client confidentiality extends beyond the office – it's crucial even at professional events.

Stay tech-savvy, secure, and make the most of your conference experience!

🤗

Stay tech-savvy, secure, and make the most of your conference experience! 🤗

Happy Lawyering and Happy Learning!

World Backup Day 2023!!!

Remember to backup, backup, backup your data!!!

World Backup Day is an annual event celebrated on March 31st to raise awareness about the importance of backing up data. Here are three things you can do to celebrate World Backup Day:

1. Backup your data: The most important thing to do on World Backup Day is to backup your data. Make sure you have a reliable backup system in place, such as an external hard drive, cloud storage, or a backup service. Backup your important files, documents, photos, and videos to ensure that you don't lose them in case of a computer crash, theft, or other disaster.

2. Educate yourself and others: World Backup Day is also an opportunity to educate yourself and others about the importance of backing up data. Share your backup strategies with your friends and family, and encourage them to do the same. You can also read articles, blogs, and guides about backup best practices to learn more.

3. Test your backups: Finally, don't forget to test your backups on World Backup Day. It's important to make sure that your backup system is working properly and that you can restore your data if needed. Test your backups regularly to ensure that your data is safe and secure.

Want to learn more about World Backup Day? Check out my post from last year! Remember - Backup, Backup, Backup your data!