Though the process has been slow, technology has revolutionized the practice of law. The present day legal practice utilizes advanced technologies such as videoconferencing, legal video, presentation technologies, online document storage and real time court reporting. Technology cannot but advance, and it is very likely to bring in remarkable changes in the way legal offices function.
Some of the visible trends include the following.
- Smartphones and Tablets: in more than forty percent of the law firms, lawyers and legal entities use smartphones, iPad, and tablets. This clearly signifies how legal firms and legal entities have adapted to the IT changes. They are widely using software that can print from mobile devices anywhere while safeguarding confidentiality and security.
- E-Books and EReaders: once legal libraries were the main source for collecting information, in connection with researching cases, referring citations and building legal awareness. Now with the introduction of eBooks and e-Readers, these entities can get fast and robust materials, information, databases or even blogs and wikis quickly in their handheld devices.
- Remote working practices: another trend that is likely to pick up popularity is remote working practices. With the invention of smartphones, digital readers, high-speed internet, and cloud storage devices legal professionals needn’t be tied down to their offices. They can access anything from anywhere.
- E-filing: another major trend is e-filing. Many court systems require that documents are filed electronically, with the PDF/A format becoming the accepted standard for e-filing. Now, law firms and attorneys will need to ensure PDF/A compliance by adopting PDF converter software. This software is capable of automatically checking documents and reporting any possible issues.
- Outsourcing: another trend that is set to grow exponentially is legal transcription outsourcing. Being busy with legal matters, legal entities are increasingly likely to outsource many processes including transcription to legal transcription companies and enjoy the benefits ensured.
Thus advancements in technology are increasingly changing the shape of the legal industry. Lawyers and legal firms must adapt to these changes and trends if they want to make a mark in the industry.
