The landscape of the world of law and litigation is changing. As our culture becomes more and more “go, go, go” in the age of the internet, it is important that each legal firm keep up to speed. That is why many are making major changes that put them ahead of the curve. Here are five of those legal trends to be on the lookout for in 2019.
1. Mobile Scheduling of Court Reporting Services
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Attorneys and paralegals are always looking for ways to more efficiently manage their time. Many have favorite court reporters to turn to for all their litigation needs, but a large portion of these firms are stuck in the past with limited calling or email scheduling options. However, things are starting to change. Many court reporting companies are now offer mobile scheduling for court reporter services.
These scheduling options allow attorneys to simply click on the booking engine, fill out contact information, information on the case, and which services need to be booked. Upon submitting the request, the firm is notified of the proposal and promptly gets back to the client. These mobile booking engines attorneys to fill out a request anywhere, any time.
2. Local Education Seminars by Attorneys
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In an interview with West Palm Beach Elder Law attorney, Mark Shalloway, he reveals that there is “intimidation and fear with booking with a lawyer.” This causes many clients to not seek the help they need. By offering free seminars on a particular area of practice, locals can learn about the field and determine whether or not they want to proceed with this particular law firm. The anonymity that comes with participating in an audience setting allows potential clients to comfortable intake knowledge.
“They are exposed to the subject matter and can understand if it will help,” Shalloway says. “If it’s not right fit, they just leave. If they want more, they can follow up. You can go on internet, read articles, but you can learn much more if you show up to a seminar.”
3. Presence on Online
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With the rise in social media, having an online presence is far more important than it once was. People rarely turn phone booths or radio ads to learn about a firm. Nowadays, people open Google and search for firms near them. It is vastly important for a law firm or court reporting firm to have a stunning, easy to navigate website that can appeal to both younger and older generations. Having multiple social media accounts, such as Facebook and Twitter, allow clients to stay engaged with the business. When exposed to frequent updates, it keeps the business on the minds of clients, making them more likely to return to the firm when they need help.
4. Better Cyber security
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An increase in online presence and a transfer from paper to digital, however, leads to an increase in data breeches. In a study by ABA in 2017, it was reported that 44% of firms experienced a threat to security and breech. With important and sensitive information on not only the firm itself, but their clients, sitting on each and every one of the staff-members’ computers, it is essential that greater focus be placed on security. Many firms hiring more than adding IT professionals to the team—they are turning to cyber security companies such as Root9B and Intel Security to keep their information secure.
5. Video Marketing
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YouTube is quickly becoming one of the top search engines in the world. More than 75 million people in the world watch videos every single day. People would rather watch a video that is just a few minutes long than ready a several-paged article that holds the same information. Videos are engaging, and can be watched while people wash the dishes or do any other number of tasks. By creating easily digestible video content, firms can get their information into the world in a creative way that appeals to a large audience.
Shareable, interesting content will help spread the word. Videos also help put a face and personality to what one may have been seen as an intimidating attorney. If present and future clients feel comfortable and familiar with a firm, they will be more likely to schedule an appointment or service.