Technology Consulting for the Legal Community

Articles by Alan R. Nye, Esq.:

Tech Consulting for the Legal Profession

As a practicing lawyer, Alan Nye understands the unique needs of the legal profession. He has spent years learning to use technology to directly benefit his own legal practice as well as that of many other legal professionals. Mr. Nye specializes in consulting for small and medium sized law firms, corporate law departments, and other legal entities. Among his services are the installation, configuration, training, service and support on selected hardware and software systems. He works closely with technology professionals who have extensive knowledge and experience in the areas of: word processing, time billing and accounting systems, case management programs, document assembly software, document management products, litigation support systems, voice recognition software and selected specialized legal practice applications.

Staying current with technology requires frequent evaluation of three things: hardware, software and training. The smooth integration of these three things leads to increased productivity and profitability.

Hardware upgrades

If your firm is just "getting by" with its older computer systems, there are many advantages to either upgrading or purchasing a new system. Computer processing power continues to rapidly increase even as hardware prices steadily decline. Current software applications demand greater minimum system requirements. Your hardware and operating systems should keep pace with the industry so that you can use the newest versions of software.

Your office computers should also be networked and have anti-virus software installed. Your users must be protected from hackers with firewalls in place on your systems. These can either be hardware or software based (or a combination). Your computer system should have automatic backups in case of a computer crash or natural disaster, such as a fire. All firms can benefit from a broadband (high-speed) Internet connection such as cable or DSL. If any of these things are missing in your legal practice, let us help you with your hardware selection. Our recommendations will be based on what your firm specifically needs, not what the vendor wants to sell you.

Choosing the Right Software

We can help your firm determine the appropriate computer software systems for your law practice -- and do it within your budget. We examine and evaluate your existing software and confer with you and your staff so that we fully understand your office technology needs and desires. We carefully consider the long-range objectives of automating your firm. We then make recommendations for your software and systems support needs that are customized for your particular legal practice.

We can help you determine which legal software will work best for your practice, including word processors, document assembly and automation software, billing and timekeeping packages and case management software. Many firms are now taking advantage of automated case management software, including products like Amicus Attorney, Time Matters, PC Law, Jr. and others. Mr. Nye is a certified consultant for Amicus Attorney and is familiar with many other case management products. We will work diligently to find the product that will best meet your current needs and the future goals of your practice. We will also work with you to upgrade your current software to newer versions and make sure that your system is secure from network attacks.

Training

Installing hardware and software systems is only half the battle. Although often overlooked, training is essential in order to maximize your technology investment. The real benefit from technology is when it's utilized to dramatically increase the efficiency of the people using it. We will provide you with the necessary software training for your attorneys and staff. We always customize our training to focus on your unique requirements. We can also suggest books, videos and CD based training materials for you to use on your own.

Troubleshooting Problems
In an effort at cost savings, many firms are purchasing hardware and software products online or by mail order from companies located many miles away. Problems of installation, customization and service can be frustrating when all you receive is limited telephone support. We will work with you and your vendor to resolve the problems. If necessary, we'll correct the problem for you.

If your current computer systems aren't working properly -- regardless of the reason -- you're not realizing your system's full potential. Our job is to fix what's wrong so that you can concentrate on practicing law instead of becoming a computer expert.

Web Site Design Services
We can help you establish a presence on the Internet with our web site design services. Whether you need a simple web page or a more elaborate site, we will work with your firm to determine the style and graphical design that meets your criteria. When you provide the content, we will build your site and find the appropriate web hosting service for your needs. If you don't yet have an Internet presence or you're not pleased with your current site, let us help you showcase your firm online.

Conclusion

Most law firms don't have the time, expertise or resources to adequately evaluate the large variety of hardware and software currently available to attorneys. We work with the legal profession and keep abreast of all the developments in the area of technology that are relevant to law firms. We find ways for technology to improve the bottom line. Our goal is to make your practice more efficient and productive. We believe that when technology is used wisely, it can make you more profitable and successful. Keeping current with technology is an investment in your future.

Alan R. Nye, Esq. | 225 Commercial Street | Portland, Maine 04101
(207) 828-4400 phone | (207) 828-4300 fax | anye@alannye.com

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