The Importance Of Technology In The Legal Field

The Importance Of Technology In The Legal Field

Technology is permeating almost every facet of our lives and its use has already affected us in ways that we probably never saw coming. Gone is our alarm clock, replaced by a smartphone, music is streamed via a voice-controlled device rather than played on a radio or CD player and some of our fridges are now suggesting replenishments. We engage in most of our communications online via social media and email and over 90% of UK adults use internet banking.

It should therefore come as little surprise that the public has increasingly high expectations from their legal representatives in several contexts. Clients are no longer happy to wait a week for an in-person appointment with their chosen solicitor, and staying in to take a phone call is almost unthinkable. In order that the profession can adapt to meet and exceed ever higher expectations, technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in what was already a demanding profession.

Why Law Firms Should Implement New Technologies

Firms that have yet to implement systems to facilitate better client communications and the ability for remote working are missing a trick and, indeed, could be losing business. In addition, embracing technology, in particular the ability to process digital signatures and to complete identification verification remotely, can save a law firm money. There are now a host of ways in which technology can help a firm to remain profitable and productive. These include:

1. Automating Administration.?

Automating simple administrative processes frees up support staff and fee earners' time alike to focus on tasks requiring human intervention. It enables junior staff, paralegals and clerks to ensure that all active matters are routed to the most appropriate solicitor for action, based upon their availability and caseload. The fee earner can rest safe in the knowledge that initial checks and administrative elements are complete, with the remaining work requiring their skill and attention.

2. Collaborative Working Environment.

Embedding collaborative working practices within a law firm can simplify everyone's understanding of common processes, creating a culture of efficiency. If everybody knows where information is stored, in what format, and they are confident that all information stored is current, far less time is wasted on fact checking and clarification, leaving more time for productive work and output.

3. Improved Data Security.

Maintaining client information in a collaborative workspace increases its security, obviating the need to email copies between lawyers, administrative staff or project teams for countersigning or checking. Paper storage is reduced, suggesting the potential for smaller, more efficient premises or the re-purposing of space for client meeting rooms or other functional needs.

4. Greater Access To New Clients.?

Arguably one of the most significant benefits of technology in the legal sector is greater reach, specifically the ability to take on clients who may hitherto have found it difficult to obtain legal support. This may have been due to their remote location, little or no appetite for visiting a law firm in person or a health condition which precludes travel. These clients can receive the full support of a modern, technology-enabled firm through video conferencing with 24/7 access to their information via a digital platform.

In Conclusion

It is clear, therefore, that technology has the potential to transform the way in which the legal sector operates, opening up opportunities for increased client reach, flexibility, job satisfaction, productivity and client satisfaction.?

Embracing technological advances can benefit everyone involved, from the client through to the partners in the firm who will realise enhanced per capita revenue and improved marginality through increased efficiency. Little wonder that Gartner predicts a threefold increase in the technology budgets of law firms by 2025.?

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