Digital White Papers

April 2013: Adapting to a Mobile World

publication of the International Legal Technology Association

Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/122164

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THE AGE OF THE APP: ATTORNEYS NOW INCLUDED Thompson Coburn has also seen the adoption of trial-related apps. Although not used widely within the firm, Lit Software's TrialPad app has been strongly endorsed by a few litigation attorneys. TrialPad allows for the management of documents and case materials that can be displayed during trial. Attorneys appreciate the level of control they get from TrialPad on the iPad. Further, the ability to annotate documents on-the-fly and the more interactive nature of a touchscreen device can help make a presentation more dynamic. As with many technologies, however, limitations must be taken into account. Presenting an iPad's display in a courtroom requires special accessories and most likely a wireless network, something not available in all courtrooms. Thompson Coburn utilizes Apple TV and hot spot devices to supply its own wireless network when necessary. the pace of adoption among attorneys has been mixed, the use and effectiveness of these devices are expected to increase rapidly. "We try to pair up non-techie attorneys with those who are more comfortable with technology and the latest gadgets," said White. "This helps them see the possibilities for how the devices can be used." With the release of Windows 8 tablets — as well as the Surface Pro from Microsoft, BlackBerry 10, and the proliferation of iPads and Android devices — the tablet computing market is strong and at times overwhelming. For most attorneys, the choice of a device is largely a matter of personal preference and level of support by the firm's IT department. Once attorneys have that tablet in-hand, be prepared to guide them toward reliable apps that will help them deliver legal services. BIG POTENTIAL iPads and other tablet computers hold tremendous potential for the legal service industry. Although Thomas Bennett is the Manager of Information Technology at Thompson Coburn LLP. He is also a member of ILTA's Desktop and Application Services Peer Group Steering Committee. Thomas can be contacted at tbennett@thompsoncoburn.com.

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