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services such as Lexis and Westlaw, significantly reducing the expense
of maintaining law firm libraries and arguably making research much
quicker and more effective than traditional “book-based” research. Video
platforms such as Zoom make it possible to conduct hearings, depositions,
and conference calls remotely, often resulting in substantial time and
cost savings for lawyers and their clients. All of these and other similar
technological advances no doubt have improved the practice of law in
myriad ways.
Conversely, technology also presents new and unique challenges for
lawyers. With data breaches and becoming almost routine, lawyers now
must take appropriate steps to protect confidential client information from
such intrusions. Also, even if not cybersecurity specialists, lawyers should
possess at least general knowledge about precautions their clients can take
to protect sensitive customer or employee information and where clients
can look for additional guidance regarding protection of such information.
Indeed, with so many employees of law firms and businesses working
remotely and using communication platforms to conduct meetings,
hearings, and depositions during the coronavirus pandemic, the necessity
of implementing strong and effective security measures to prevent
unauthorized access to systems and communication platforms has only
been heightened.
Data breaches present yet another set of challenges for lawyers. After
data breaches occur, prompt action must be taken by breached law firms
and businesses under both state and federal law, including, among other
things, providing timely notice to potentially impacted individuals and
businesses. And because litigation often follows large-scale data breaches,
individuals who have had their personal information compromised by
breaches need to be counseled about their rights, and breached law firms
and businesses need to be advised regarding the ramifications of such
litigation.
The HCBA’s new Technology Section will consider these and other key
issues arising from ever-changing impact of technology on the practice of
law, including data privacy, personal privacy laws, regulatory compliance,
cybersecurity litigation, the role of artificial intelligence and biometric
data, and the legal ramifications of current and future technologies. We
hope that you will consider signing up for this Section on the HCBA
website and helping us to explore these still evolving issues. n
Authors: Mike Hooker - Phelps Dunbar, LLP & Ryan McGee - Morgan &
Morgan, PA
HCBA Has Gone virtual!
we have planned a variety of informative
new webinars for members. Check the calendar
at hillsbar.com for upcoming events.
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