Law firm IT questions, answered plainly
The questions managing partners and firm administrators ask us most. For questions about your own ethical obligations, check the State Bar of Georgia's rules and talk with ethics counsel.
What does "technology competence" mean for lawyers?
Comment 8 to ABA Model Rule 1.1 says competent lawyers keep up with the benefits and risks of relevant technology. It doesn't require lawyers to be technical experts. It does mean understanding the tools the firm uses and getting qualified help where needed.
What do the ethics rules say about protecting client data?
ABA Model Rule 1.6(c) asks lawyers to make reasonable efforts to prevent unauthorized access to or disclosure of client information. ABA Formal Opinion 477R explains how to judge what's reasonable, based on the sensitivity of the information and the risks involved.
Do we have to tell clients about a data breach?
ABA Formal Opinion 483 says lawyers should notify current clients when a breach involves, or is substantially likely to involve, material confidential information. State breach notification laws may also apply. That is a decision for the firm and its counsel. We provide the technical facts.
How do we protect against wire fraud?
Combine technical controls with a firm rule. Turn on MFA, filter and monitor email and protect your domain. Then require a phone callback to a known number before anyone acts on new or changed payment instructions.
Is Microsoft 365 secure enough for a law firm?
It can be, if it is configured properly. Out of the box, important protections may be off or not used. MFA, conditional access, email security, sensible sharing settings and a separate backup make a big difference.
Can our attorneys work securely from home and court?
Yes. Firm-managed, encrypted laptops, MFA, secure access to files and a few clear rules on public Wi-Fi and personal devices cover most of the risk. We set these up and keep them maintained.
Do we need a full-time IT person?
Most firms with fewer than 150 people don't. A managed IT team gives you broader skills and coverage than one employee. Some firms keep an internal person for daily needs and use us for the rest.
What happens to our files if ransomware hits?
With protected, tested backups, systems can be rebuilt clean and data restored from before the attack. Without them, recovery is slow and uncertain. That's why we keep backups separate from the firm's network and test restores regularly.
Can you help us answer a client's security questionnaire?
Yes. We help you answer accurately based on what is actually in place. If a question shows a gap, we explain what it would take to close it.
What does law firm IT support cost?
It depends on the number of people, offices and systems. After a review, we give you fixed monthly pricing, so the firm can budget without surprise hourly bills.
Which parts of metro Atlanta do you serve?
We work on site with firms in Buckhead, Midtown, Downtown Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Dunwoody, Marietta, Decatur, Duluth and Peachtree Corners, with remote support wherever your attorneys are working.
Know where your firm stands before a client asks
Clients, insurers and auditors now ask law firms how they protect data. A firm IT review gives you clear answers and a short list of what to fix first.