NCJ Number
144363
Journal
ABA Journal Volume: 79 Dated: (July 1993) Pages: 59
Date Published
1993
Length
1 page
Annotation
Technology is increasingly being applied to the practice of law, with over 67 percent of attorneys in medium-sized firms reporting that they personally use a computer in their practice.
Abstract
While computers may have increased individual productivity by reducing some of the administrative work, law firms are now moving into the realm of improving organizational productivity. In many firms, the infrastructure needed to enhance information processing already exists in the form of local area networks (LAN's). Notable examples of LAN applications include electronic mail, work product databases, and group drafting. In addition, automated document assembly systems combine word processing, if-then logic, and specific legal expertise and convert user-supplied information into sophisticated contracts, pleadings, and other legal documents. These systems can provide heightened quality control and eliminate some of the duplicative work and repetitive processes involved in legal drafting. Portable and wireless computers will continue to gain in popularity, providing attorneys flexibility in where they conduct business. Voice recognition systems represent a new area of development. The American Bar Association is available to provide assistance as law firms embrace new technology.