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Knowledge Sharing – Embracing Legal Technology for High-Street law firms

Luke Heydenrych – Director of Operations

As the world continues to move into an ever-evolving digital age, the integration of technology is a vital aspect of all industries, including the legal sector. Embracing new technology can be a daunting task. These are some learnings that may be of interest to others in the industry, specifically smaller, high-street firms which may be looking to integrate new technology into their business for the first time.

  1. Identify Your Firm’s Needs: Before diving into the world of legal tech, take the time to identify your firm’s specific pain points and requirements. Consider areas where technology can streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance client services. Is your firm struggling with document management, case management, or client communication? Understanding your needs will help you narrow down the options and make informed decisions.
  2. Research and Evaluate: Once you’ve identified your firm’s needs, conduct thorough research to explore the available legal tech solutions. Consider factors such as functionality, ease of use, compatibility with existing systems, and vendor reputation. Read reviews, seek recommendations from trusted sources, and attend legal technology conferences or seminars to stay updated on the latest trends and advancements. Remember, one size does not fit all.
  3. Start with Small Steps: When integrating new technology, it’s essential to start with small, manageable steps. Implementing a complete overhaul of your systems can be overwhelming and may disrupt day-to-day operations. Begin with a pilot project or select one area of your firm where technology can make an immediate impact. Gradual integration allows for a smoother transition and reduces resistance from staff members.
  4. Training and Education: Introducing new technology requires proper training and education for your team. Ensure that all staff members are familiar with the chosen technology and understand its benefits. Offer training sessions, workshops, or even online tutorials to help employees adapt to the new tools. Encourage open communication and address any concerns or questions raised by staff members.
  5. Data Security and Compliance: As the legal industry handles sensitive client information, data security and compliance are of paramount importance. Before implementing any technology, thoroughly assess its security features and data protection protocols. Ensure that the chosen solution complies with industry regulations, such as GDPR,  depending on your jurisdiction. Regularly update security measures and monitor potential vulnerabilities to safeguard client data.
  6. Measure Success and Adapt: After integrating legal technology, monitor its impact on your firm’s efficiency, productivity, and client satisfaction. Set specific metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the effectiveness of the technology. Seek feedback from staff members and clients to gain insights into areas of improvement. If necessary, be willing to adapt and make changes to maximise the benefits of the technology.

High-street law firms can no longer afford to overlook the potential benefits of legal technology. By understanding their specific needs, conducting thorough research, starting small, providing proper training, ensuring data security, and measuring success, these firms can successfully integrate new technology into their business operations. Embracing legal tech not only enhances efficiency but also empowers firms to provide improved client services in an increasingly competitive landscape. It’s an ongoing process, so don’t think of it as a project with a start or an end, but more of a continuous part of how we do things now.

CJCH Solicitors to create 71 jobs in Cyber Security with backing from Welsh Government.

CJCH Solicitors have embarked on an ambitious journey to create a staggering 71 new jobs within the Anti-Piracy and Cyber Security speciality in Wales by year-end 2020.  We are proud to reiterate the announcement made by the Welsh Government, revealing their support of our new global IP Anti-Piracy Unit at our Cardiff head office.

CJCH has been at the heart of digital piracy and Intellectual Property compliance in Wales, with an international impact. In 2014, our Intellectual Property practice launched its internal Anti-Piracy and Compliance consultancy. Our team developed a customised solution for our international clients, to protect their work product and recover lost revenues from software infringements.

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure, said “IP piracy, which can range from copyright theft or infringement to counterfeit goods, is a growing global issue that can cause untold damage to businesses, to their protected and valued brands and the economy. ”

Infringements of this nature are a form of cyber crime which impacts business globally, depriving them of revenue and compromising their intellectual property rights. CJCH have tackled this issue head-on and cultivated a bespoke solution for companies suffering from this invasion.

The purpose of this partnership with the Welsh Government is to leverage our thought leadership and create a central hub for Anti-Piracy and Cyber Security in Wales. We intend to bring global best practice into Wales while developing local talent as well. Our 2020 goal, is to have established 71 new jobs in this field, as well as contribute to making the United Kingdom and global digital community a safer and more secure environment. We will be partnering with local businesses and academic institutions, such as Swansea University, to cultivate development and training programs to support this initiative, with specialist content aligned to business needs.

Stephen Clarke, the CJCH CEO, stated “The modern world of digital liberty and innovation offers greater access to information and narrows the global divide. Unfortunately, the digital economy brings with it a growing sophistication in criminal activity. Without proper defences, digital piracy exposes businesses to uncontrollable risk and vulnerability. Our solution enables us to partner with our clients to establish a proactive (protection) and reactive (recovery) governance model. Our goal is to share this experience with the community and grow the local capability in cyber security.”

As of 6 March 2017, CJCH Solicitors has been awarded a £432 000 grant from the Welsh Government to support our active project to establish this new entity. Our objective is to aggressively drive the development of Cyber Security and Anti-Piracy enforcement in collaboration with skills development and knowledge transfer. Making Wales, and the UK, a more secure and impenetrable digital landscape.

For more information and updates, email us at ip@cjch.co.uk or engage with us via Facebook, twitter or LinkedIn.