Many lawyers view their pro bono work as a higher calling. Providing professional services free of charge is a way to give back to the profession and elevate the practice of law. It's also common for lawyers to view their pro bono work as an opportunity to broaden their horizons. At the same time, it's [...]

In the past year, there has been a massive surge in ransomware attacks targeting law firms, costing law firms hundreds of millions of dollars, exposing sensitive client data and crippling their ability to operate. Many law firms continue to focus primarily on their client matters, not realizing how a ransomware attack could now devastate their own [...]

With another year upon us, it's a good time to reflect on areas you can improve when it comes to your current firm practices, specifically the engagement letter best practies. As the contract between you and your client, a written engagement letter is essential. Each new client matter or representation, big or small, should begin [...]

Lawyers must strike a careful balance between maintaining easy access to digital files and safeguarding the firm's confidential data. Hackers are becoming more and more sophisticated, which means it's more important than ever to use secure passwords for all your files and devices. To stay safe, your firm's password security must evolve to keep pace [...]

Improving client screening is an important aspect of maintaining an efficient and effective law practice. Engaging in a representation with the wrong client or on the wrong matter could put your career and practice at risk. Improving client screening at your firm helps reduce the risk of troubled representations and malpractice claims. It's wise to [...]

When a lawyer and a client enter a business transaction beyond the typical fee-for-service, the risk of a claim rises dramatically. Price-sensitive clients may offer you business equity, investment returns or even patents to better afford your services. Some of these carefully arranged side deals may even be legal and ethical at the outset but [...]

Law firms and lawyers face risks from doing business online every day. Email communications, digital files, privileged client and business records and sensitive financial transaction information are all attractive to hackers. To stay safe online, it's important to know the risks, minimize exposure and protect against potential impacts. Here are the top 4 cyber risks [...]

Outside the courtroom, a lawyer's professional activities may include types of communication that increase the risk of a defamation claim. Statements made on the courthouse steps, or in press releases, interviews and written descriptions of litigation can all pose a risk of defamation exposure. Mitigating risk for defamation claims is key to avoid a stressful, [...]

Accepting or rejecting potential clients is a frequent occurrence for practicing attorneys. To protect yourself and your firm from high-risk or incompatible clients, you need sound client intake procedures. The right client intake procedures are a smart risk control measure that may help you avert a legal malpractice claim before it can damage your business [...]