Cloud computing is becoming more and more common in the legal world. Also known as “the cloud,” cloud computing supports many core functions for law firms.
To quote MIT, attorneys use the cloud for “email management, document management… jurisprudence or legislation databases, and integrated management (ERP)… in sum, almost all software tools can be contracted to the cloud.” Legal practice management software typically uses the cloud for data storage, organization, communication, and much more.
Cloud-based legal practice management software supports and augments firms with more tools as they adapt their practice to the modern world. That same article from MIT highlights that cloud computing exemplifies how technology enhances efficiency in legal processes, improving client services rather than replacing lawyers with machines.
Cloud computing, for lawyers, is a way to make their demanding role easier (and safer) to perform well. This is especially true for small to midsize firms that may not have the same amount of resources as major firms but still want to run a competitive, top-tier practice.
Want to learn more about the cloud and how it can improve your firm? You’ve come to the right place! At PracticePanther, we dedicate our focus to understanding cloud technology and how we can use it to support law firms’ operations. Read on to learn more about the cloud, including potential uses, how many law firms use cloud computing (and why), and which software offers the best cloud computing for lawyers.
What Percentage of Companies Use Cloud Computing in Law?
According to Statista, 72% of law firms plan to increase their cloud usage in the near future, which means at least 72% (likely more) will be using the cloud in some capacity in the coming years. There are several reasons for this uptick, as law firms can use cloud-based software for:
- Data storage and organization
- Increased cybersecurity measures
- Legal billing and time tracking
- Client communications
- Improved collaboration and communication across the firm
Cloud technology gives firms multiple avenues of improvement, regardless of their practice size or specialization. And cloud-based legal practice management software aims to address the specific needs of attorneys, from secure communications to the day-to-day tracking of billable hours. Also, and perhaps most notably, cloud software gives attorneys constant access to the tools they need through mobile-friendly apps — so they’re just as well-equipped when outside the office.
Another way cloud technology supports law firms is through their business objectives. A Forbes article on cloud technology in the legal industry highlights how migrating to the cloud offers long-term affordability compared to local storage, thanks to scalability. It also enhances internal processes, allowing firms to accomplish more with fewer resources.
What Are the Ethics of Cloud Computing?
The most critical ethics of cloud computing revolve around privacy, security, and data ownership. For law firms specifically, much of this translates to protecting client information and maintaining confidentiality. The American Bar Association summarized it best in Formal Opinion 477R, which mentions the following key points:
- Cybersecurity is critical for law firms due to their role as prime targets for hackers, given the sensitive nature of the information they handle.
- Lawyers must stay informed about technological advancements, understanding both the benefits and risks of using relevant tools.
- Ongoing education and compliance with continuing legal education (CLE) requirements are essential to maintain competence in the use of technology.
- Safeguarding client communications and data is a professional obligation, requiring the implementation of appropriate electronic security measures.
- Attorneys should evaluate and choose accessible and effective methods to protect client information, ensuring confidentiality in all interactions.
In short, technology today is incredibly powerful but must be wielded competently for success. As such, the onus is on attorneys as professionals to understand cloud technology, keep updated on its innovations, and know how to use software in a way that still adheres to the ethics of attorney work. Ultimately, the ethical use of technology depends on the knowledge and diligence of the professionals using it.
Is There American Bar Association-Approved Cloud Storage?
While the ABA doesn’t have a readily available approved list of cloud software, they do make their stances clear on how they evaluate cloud technology. In their brief article “The Ethics of Cloud-Based Storage,” they outline seven points of evaluation for best practice with cloud software:
- Know how the cloud-based storage will be accessed (e.g., passwords, authentication).
- Determine who will have access to said passwords (the fewer people, the better).
- Perform due diligence — for example, whether they’ve had data breaches in the past.
- To quote them directly, “cost is not, and should not, be the determining factor. Especially in the world of cybersecurity, you often get what you pay for.”
- Find out if their agreement has liability restrictions in the event of a data breach.
- Ask if there are multiple levels of encryption for highly sensitive information.
- Compare providers to find those offering extra protection before committing.
Finding software for cloud storage should be a carefully considered purchase — and that goes double for law firms. It’s important to find a company that not only understands software but can adhere to the strict ethics that the practice of law demands.
What Is the Most Popular Software for Law Firms That’s Cloud-Based?
PracticePanther is a popular cloud software for law firms, specifically for its focus on cloud security, efficient case management, and improving the client intake process. It also provides the protection, organization, and actionable insights to help firms succeed as a practice, business, and advocate for their clients — all at once!
Looking to take your firm’s tech to the cloud? See why PracticePanther is the choice for law firms all across the industry and sign up for a free trial today. You can also schedule a free demo by clicking the button at the bottom of this blog. We look forward to meeting you!
