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.
