The pillars of digital security: How to ethically use technology in legal practice

Written by a busy lawyer for other busy lawyers, this is a practical guide to using, and overseeing others using, technology in legal practice. This edition comes with a quick-start guide to significantly decrease risks in the way lawyers use, and the way they manage others’ using, technology in legal practice—in one hour. The author has over 20 years of litigation experience investigating, prosecuting, and defending other lawyers charged with ethical violations, malpractice, and professional negligence. He has held senior positions in bar associations while exercising responsibility for enforcement of professional regulations and continuing legal education. In addition to his private practice, he has extensively taught lawyers and judges about technology in legal practice. This book distils the author’s unique experience of the classroom, the boardroom room, and the courtroom. A client's claim of unethical or incompetent practice places a lawyer's professional judgment in question. A court or disciplinary tribunal adjudicating that complaint places a lawyer's professional judgment, and livelihood, in peril. Imagine yourself explaining to a client why your use of technology caused them harm. Then imagine an angry client testifying against you at a disciplinary tribunal. What are you going to say? What evidence are you going to tender? Many lawyers know very little about technology and lack the time or interest to learn. But those same lawyers must make professional decisions about technology right now. Those decisions must be sensible, reasonable, and defensible. The book's step-by-step guides have been used successfully by hundreds of lawyers and dozens of judges who know little or nothing about technology. This concise book is designed to be read by both lawyers and the computer scientists who give them IT support. The method of focussing attention on 7 discrete topics—the pillars of digital security—enables a common language for lawyers and computer scientists to work together effectively. Read more