Our next guest is Pete Harmon. Pete is not just a veteran and an experienced pilot for a major air delivery service with decades of travel experience but also the co-host of the long-running "Mac Geek Gab" podcast and the creator of "So There I Was," an aviation-focused storytelling podcast. In this episode, Pete shares his wealth of knowledge on staying connected while traversing the globe. His insights are particularly valuable for legal professionals who need to maintain seamless communication and productivity, whether they're traveling locally, across state lines, or internationally. From essential gadgets to connectivity hacks, Pete's tips will help you navigate the digital landscape of modern travel with confidence.

To cap off our episode, Pet shares a riveting war-era anecdote about a pilot blinded in action who ingeniously used his plane's mechanical technology to rescue an injured marine 20 miles away!

Join Pete and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

1. What are the top three tech tips for getting on and using the internet during your national and international travels?
2. What are your favorite top three war stories regarding computer tech issues on the road?
3. What are the top three tech gadgets you bring besides your phone, laptop, or tablet when traveling?

B1  What are Pete’s top three favorite non-tech gadgets he brings on travel?

B2.  What are Pete's top three tips or suggestions about going through security with tech?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[00:42] Pete's Tech Setup

[05:57] Top 3 Tech Tips for Staying Connected While Traveling

[17:52] War Stories and Tech Mishaps

[26:50] 3 Must-Have Tech Gadgets for Travel

[32:11] Favorite Non-Tech Gadgets for Travel

[42:22]  Connect with Pete

Resources:

Connect with Pete:

• Mac Geek Gab: macgeekgab.com/
• So There I Was: sothereiwas.us/

Hardware mentioned in the conversation:

• AirFly Pro: twelvesouth.com/products/airfly
• Anker 100W Cube Charger: anker.com/products/a2343-100w-usb-c-charger
• Anker Slim Flat Laptop Charger: anker.com/collections/for-laptops
• Audio-Technica USB Microphone: audio-technica.com/en-eu/microphones/wired/type/usb
• GL-MT3000 Travel Router: gl-inet.com/products/gl-mt3000/
• Pokefi Portable WiFi: mypokefi.com/
• Ultimate Ears Bluetooth Speaker: ultimateears.com/en-us

Software & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

• AT&T: att.com/international/
• Channels DVR: getchannels.com/dvr-server/
• Mint Mobile: mintmobile.com/
• NeverSSL – neverssl.com/
• OpenVPN – openvpn.net/
• SiriusXM: siriusxm.com/
• Synology NAS: synology.com/en-au/support/nas_selector
• T-Mobile: t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans
• TuneIn: tunein.com/
• Verizon: verizon.com/plans/international/international-travel/
• WireGuard VPN– wireguard.com/

In this special 100th Episode, guest host Carolyn Elefant catches up with your tech-savvy lawyer, blogger, and podcaster. We discuss my current tech setup, how technology is changing legal practice, and the impact of AI on client communication and law work. We also discuss practical tips for using tech tools effectively to improve efficiency and strengthen client relationships.

This milestone episode is full of insights for lawyers, judges and legal practitioners looking to stay ahead in legal tech!

Join Carolyn and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

1. How have some of the other legal tech tools that Michael uses transformed the way that he works with clients and deliver service to them since the 50th episode?
2. What are the challenges as well as the opportunities legal professionals who use technologies like AI, like gen AI are having and what are the implications they have for client confidentiality and data security?
3. What are the most significant challenges and opportunities Michael has observed for legal professionals using technology to enhance client confidentiality and data security?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[01:03] Michael's Current Tech Setup

[04:13] Legal Tech Tools and Client Communication

[07:04] Evolution of AI in Legal Practice

[09:50] Challenges and Opportunities with AI

[15:40] Practical Advice for Tech Use in Legal Practice

[21:08] Connect with Carolyn

Connect with Carolyn:

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/carolynelefant/

Website: myshingle.com/

Resources:

Hardware mentioned in the conversation:

• Blue Yeti Microphone: logitechg.com/en-us/products/streaming-gear/yeti-premium-usb-microphone
• Elgato Ring Light: elgato.com/us/en/p/ring-light
• Elgato Stream Deck: elgato.com/ww/en/s/welcome-to-stream-deck
• Shure MV7 Microphone:shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/mv7

Software & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

• Apple Encryption: support.apple.com/en-us/HT204455
• Backblaze: backblaze.com/
• Carbon Copy Cloner: bombich.com/
• NordVPN: nordvpn.com/
• Setapp: setapp.com/
• Text Expander: textexpander.com/

Meet Jayne Reardon, a nationally renowned expert on legal ethics and professionalism who provides ethics, risk management, and regulatory advice to lawyers and legal service providers. Jayne is an experienced trial lawyer who has tried cases in state and federal courts across Illinois and on appeal up to the United States Supreme Court. She also sits on the national roster of the American Arbitration Association for Commercial and Consumer Arbitration. Moreover, she is a certified neutral in the Early Dispute Resolution Process. Jayne's experience includes service as Executive Director of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism, an organization dedicated to promoting ethics and professionalism among lawyers and judges, and disciplinary counsel for the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission.

In today's conversation, Jayne explores ethical concerns for lawyers using AI, focusing on ABA Model Rules. She also discusses billing ethics, advising transparency in engagement letters and time tracking. Furthermore, Jayne highlights online civility, warning against impulsive posts and labeling, and real-life cases to underscore the importance of ethical vigilance in AI-integrated legal practice.

Join Jane and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

1. What are your top three warnings to lawyers about using AI in line with the ABA model rules of ethics?
2. Some lawyers are creating DIY services online through chatbots, AI for clients, through chatbots and AI for clients to handle their legal affairs. What are the top three ethical concerns these lawyers should be wary of when creating these services?
3. What are your top three suggestions about lawyers being civil to one another and others online?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[01:11] Jayne's Current Tech Setup

[04:50] Handling Tech Devices and Daily Usage

[08:51] Ethical Considerations for AI in Legal Practice

[19:21] Ethical Considerations for AI-Assisted Services

[26:37] Civility in Online Interactions

[30:58] Connect with Jayne

Resources:

Connect with Jayne:

• E-mail: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jaynereardon/

Hardware mentioned in the conversation:

• AirPods: apple.com/airpods/
• Apple Watch: apple.com/watch/
• iPad: apple.com/ipad/
• iPhone: apple.com/iphone/
• Mac: apple.com/mac/
• PC (Windows device): microsoft.com/en-us/windows

Software & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

• LexisNexis AI: lexisnexis.com/en-us/gateway.page
• Westlaw AI: legal.thomsonreuters.com/en/products/westlaw-edge

* the “W-Calendar” program I refered to apparently is no longer an active software program available for purchase.

Michael Anderson, Filevine's CPO, shares insights into transforming legal practice management with technology. Highlighting Filevine's client-matter-centric approach, he reveals how it streamlines legal tasks, avoids context-switching, and embraces AI for efficiency. Predicting an all-in-one AI-driven future, he invites listeners to explore Filevine's transformative impact through today's conversation!

Join Michael and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

1. What are the top three software expectations a lawyer should expect from their LPMs?
2. What are the top three practical and ethical uses of AI by lawyers today?
3. What are your top three future predictions for LPMs?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[01:32] Michael's Current Tech Setup

[03:30] Top 3 Features Lawyers Need in Legal Practice Software

[04:13] Filevine's Differentiation from Competitors

[09:50] Practical and Ethical Uses of AI in the Legal Profession

[18:27] Future Predictions for LPMs

[21:35] Connect with Michael

Resources:

Connect with Michael:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michael-anderson

Hardware mentioned in the conversation:

• Dell laptop: https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-laptops/sr/laptops
• Dell monitors: https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-monitors-for-home/ar/4009
• Loom light: https://www.loom.com/
• Razer Keyboard: razer.com/pc/gaming-keyboards-and-keypads

Software & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

• Filevine: filevine.com/
• Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/
• Zoom: https://zoom.us/

Any legal practitioner looking to increase productivity, optimize workflows, and improve client service may find switching to a new law practice management (LPM) program to be a daunting but necessary step. However, to guarantee a successful migration, the procedure necessitates meticulous planning along with an understanding of key technological elements.

Val Reason is an optimizer at Vineskills, a tech and legal business process expert. She works with law firms to assist them maximize Filevine's capabilities so they may increase operational effectiveness and enhance case management procedures to meet their objectives. She primarily draws from her prior expertise as an operations manager in personal injury law, where she was in charge of daily operations, accounting, human resources, and all system management, including Filevine builds and maintenance, in this position. She is dedicated to helping legal teams to make the most of their technology.

Regardless of the LPM you use, this is a must listen episode for those looking to maximize the value of their LPM investment, whether they're currently using an LPM system, considering a switch, or contemplating implementing LPM for the first time!

Join Val and me as we talk about the following three questions and more!

1. What are the top three tech building blocks that every attorney should know when starting with a new law practice management software suite?
2. What are the top three reasons a lawyer needs additional training on an LPM beyond what most LPMs offer?
3. What are your top three hidden tech tricks in Filevine that maybe not only you should know, but perhaps users of other LPMs as well? 

In our conversation, we cover:

[01.16] Tech Setup –  Val explains her monitor setup and why she decided to keep it simple.

[06.04] Mobile Preference – Val explains why she prefers Pixel phones.

[08.00] Tech Building Blocks - Transitioning to a new law practice management software.

[11.13] LPM Transitioning - The importance of planning and testing.

[14.12] Transition Process - Cost considerations and implementation timelines associated with transitioning to a new LPM.

[17.38] Additional Training - Val explains the reasons lawyers need additional training on LPMs.

[20.04] Tech Tricks - Val explains the top three hidden tech tricks in Filevine that lawyers should know

[22.50] Automations – Val explains her favorite top three automations.

[28.00] Productivity Tips – Val explains her top three favorite tech tips for personal productivity.

Resources:

• Connect with Val Reason
• LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/reasonvalerie/
• Website - vineskills.com/

Equipment Mentioned in the Podcast

• Apple Pro Display XDR - apple.com/pro-display-xdr/
• Dell Monitors - dell.com/en-us/shop/all-monitors/sac/monitors/all-monitors
• Jabra Wireless Headsets & Headphones - jabra.com/en-apac/
• Pixel Phones - store.google.com/us/category/phones
• Samsung Monitors - samsung.com/us/monitors/

Software & Services Mentioned in the Podcast

• ClickUp Project Management - clickup.com/
• Filevine - filevine.com
• Needless Case Management Software - assemblysoftware.com/needles

🎙️Episode 96:  Looking Into the Future of Law with Filevine Legal Futurists!

Join me as I report from Filevine’s 2024 Lex Summit in Salt Lake City, Utah. Filevine, a leading legal work platform, empowers over 125,000 professionals daily with tools for document management, billing, and analytics. Recognized in 2024 for its growth, Filevine envisions a seamless intersection of legal work, technology, and business. I talk with Filevine’s Zach Brenner, Dr. Cain Elliot and Emily Lippencott as we discuss how the Filevine platform emphasizes client-focused solutions, change management, and AI integration.

Join Zach, Dr. Cain, Emily, and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

1. What are the three key terms that define a legal futurist?
2. What are the top three technological advances a lawyer should expect from the LPM, and how is Filevine addressing each answer?
3. As a legal futurist, what are the top three ways you see lawyers using AI in their work?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[00:17] Filevine 2024 Lex Summit Overview

[02:46] Innovation and Client Needs

[06:37] Handling Client Adjustment and Change Management

[11:41] Ensuring Continuity and Uptime

[16:06] Top Three Technological Advances for Lawyers

[20:38] Using AI in Legal Work

[24:08] Billable Hours and AI

Resources:

Connect with Zach, Dr. Cain, Emily:

• Dr. Cain: linkedin.com/in/cainelliott/
• Emily: linkedin.com/in/emilylippincott/
• Zach: linkedin.com/in/zach-brenner

Software & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

• Filevine: filevine.com/
• Immigration AI: filevine.com/platform/immigrationai/
• Lex Summit: lexsummit.com
• LibreOffice: libreoffice.org/
• OpenOffice: www.openoffice.org
• WordPerfect: wordperfect.com

This week’s episode features Ruby Powers, a board-certified immigration attorney, author, speaker, small business owner, law practice management consultant, and podcaster. She is the founder of Powers Law Group, a Houston-based, full-service immigration law firm. She provides comprehensive services such as family immigration, employment-based immigration, consular processing, asylum, deportation, and waivers of inadmissibility. She joined us today from Salt Lake City, Utah just after the 2024 Lex Summit to talk about her current tech setup and share some suggestions for those transitioning to a new LPM.

In addition to her current tech setup and suggestions for new LPM transitions, she explains what security measures she’s taken while traveling internationally and also while border-crossing. 

Join Ruby and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

1. What are the top three pieces of tech, whether it be hardware or software, that you think every attorney should have to power up their practice?
2. You recently transitioned your LPM. What are your top three suggestions to lawyers when they're making this transition?
3. What are your top three pieces of tech, hardware, software or utility that a lawyer should expect from their LPM? 

In our conversation, we cover:

[01.27] Tech Setup – Ruby’s current tech setup.

[04.30] Power up – Ruby’s best three tech pieces that every attorney should have.

[07.40] Security – Ruby explains how she maintains security while traveling internationally.

[08.43] Client data protection – Ruby explains how she secures client data when crossing the border.

[10.25] LPM Transition – Tuo three suggestions when transitioning to a new legal project management.

[15.00] The top three pieces of technology, hardware, software, or utilities that lawyers should expect from their legal project management software

Resources:

Connect with Ruby

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/rubypowers/
• Website -
  • powersstrategygroup.com/
  • rubypowers.com/ 
• Power Up Your Practice: Create the Law Firm and the Life You Deserve By Ruby Powers - amazon.com/Power-Up-Your-Practice-Deserve/dp/B0DJB1FL5R
• Power Up Your Practice Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ruby-powers2

Equipment Mentioned in the Podcast

• HP Computers - hp.com/us-en/shop/cat/laptops
• Jabra Headset - jabra.com/en-apac/
• Samsung Android - samsung.com/us/smartphones/
• Yeti Microphone - blueyetimicrophone.com/ 

Software & Services Mentioned in the Podcast

• ChatGPT - chatgpt.com/
• Dropbox - dropbox.com/
• f.lux - justgetflux.com/
• FileVine - filevine.com/
• Moment - momentcrm.com/

Andrea Sager, Founder and CEO of Legalpreneur, is revolutionizing legal services for small business owners and attorneys. With experience as a BigLaw attorney, small business owner, and small business attorney, Andrea combines her passion for empowerment with expertise, ranking 27th among 40,000 trademark attorneys in the U.S., driving accessible, innovative legal solutions.

Throughout our conversation, Andrea explains why lawyers should trademark their work. Also, she provides essential podcasting tech tips and discusses strategies to stay compliant with State Bar rules and avoid UPL.

Join Andrea and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

1. What are the top three reasons a lawyer needs to trademark their business, blog, or podcast?
2. What are your top three tech tips (hardware and software) to make your podcast stand out?
3. What are your top three tips for ensuring a lawyer does not encroach on State Bar scrutiny with UPL (Unauthorized Practice of Law), etc.?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[00:08] Andrea's Current Tech Setup

[07:08] Top 3 Reasons Lawyers Should Trademark Their Business, Blog, or Podcast

[10:53] Tech Tips for Podcasting

[14:46] Ensuring Compliance with State Bar Rules

[19:53] Connect with Andrea

Resources:

Connect with Andrea:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andrea-sager
• Website: andreasager.com/
• Website: thelegalpreneur.com/

Software & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

• MyCase: mycase.com/
• Marketcircle Daylite: marketcircle.com/
• Riverside: riverside.fm/
• WooCommerce: woocommerce.com/

In this second part of our conversation with Alexander Paykin, we dive deeper into the practical applications of technology in modern law practice. As a tech-savvy commercial litigator and managing director of The Law Office of Alexander Paykin, P.C., he shares invaluable insights on leveraging cutting-edge tools to enhance legal services.

Paykin explores the transformative power of cloud computing in law firms, discussing its benefits for collaboration and accessibility while addressing critical security concerns. He offers practical advice on implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive client data and maintain ethical standards in the digital age.

Drawing from his experience and involvement with bar associations, Paykin provides actionable strategies for attorneys to streamline operations, improve client service, and drive growth through technology. He also looks ahead to emerging technologies shaping the future of legal practice.

This episode is a must-listen for attorneys seeking to harness technology's potential to stay competitive and deliver superior outcomes for clients in an ever-evolving legal landscape.

We discuss the following question and more!

1. What are the top three ways cloud computing has changed the way Alex's practice law?
2. What are the top three cybersecurity concerns that lawyers should be aware of when using cloud-based services?
3. What are the top three ways Alex sees technology continuing to shape the legal profession in the coming years?

Bonus question: What advice would you give to attorneys who are looking to adopt new technologies in their practice?

In this episode, we cover:

[02:15] - Cloud computing in law practice [06:30] - Cybersecurity concerns and best practices for law firms [11:45] - Client communication and collaboration tools [15:30] - The future of legal technology and emerging trends [20:00] - Advice for attorneys looking to adopt new technologies [24:15] - The importance of continuous learning in legal tech [28:00] - Closing thoughts and contact information for Alexander Paykin

RESOURCES

Connect with Alexander

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/alexanderpaykin/

Website - paykinlaw.net/

Hardware mentioned:

Mobile devices (implied in discussion about remote access) Link: https://www.apple.com/iphone/

Servers (for on-premises hosting) Link: https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/servers-storage-and-networking/sf/poweredge-rack-servers

Software mentioned:

• Adobe Sign (electronic signature software) Link: https://acrobat.adobe.com/us/en/sign.html
• Clio (practice management software) Link: https://www.clio.com/
• DocuSign (electronic signature software) Link: https://www.docusign.com/
• Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) Link: https://workspace.google.com/
• Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) Link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365
• Microsoft Teams (collaboration platform) Link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/group-chat-software
• MyCase (practice management software) Link: https://www.mycase.com/
• Rocket Matter (practice management software) Link: https://www.rocketmatter.com/
• Slack (team communication platform) Link: https://slack.com/
• Zoom (video conferencing software) Link: https://zoom.us/

In today’s fast-paced world, smart technology has become an essential part of our daily lives, revolutionizing how we manage our homes and workplaces. Integrating smart technology makes daily chores easier and offers strong security measures to safeguard our homes and private data. From smart locks and thermostats to integrated security systems, these advancements provide unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and protection.

Today, we are joined by Alexander Paykin. He is a commercial litigator, real estate litigator, business lawyer, complex transaction attorney, and the managing director and sole owner of The Law Office of Alexander Paykin, P.C. He is a successful advocate for many complex topics because of his varied life experiences, which have enabled him to comprehend other cultures, mentalities, and points of view. Mr. Paykin's firm is designed as a high-tech, client-centered law firm that focuses on providing efficient services in litigation and complex transactions involving business/commerce, finance, and real estate. On behalf of the American Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, and other attorney associations and groups, Mr. Paykin often instructs fellow attorneys in continuing legal education (CLE) seminars. In the first part of our conversation with him, he explains how he uses technology to enhance his overall quality of life.

IN OUR CONVERSATION WE COVER:

[01.35] Tech setup – Alexander explains his current tech setup and why he recommends investing in a secondary screen.

[07.46] Data management – Alexander explains his data management and backup strategy.

[12.58] Encrypted backups – Alexander explains their backup strategy to protect against ransomware and data loss.

[18.31] Alexander explains why he uses two smartphones.

[22.16] Safety & Security – Michael explains his approach, which combines practicality with security, showing how to keep essentials organized while minimizing risks.

[25.32] What’s in Alex’s wallet?

[30.12] Technology and daily life – Alexander explains their comprehensive smart home and office setup, focusing on convenience and security.

RESOURCES

Connect with Alexander

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/alexanderpaykin/
• Website - paykinlaw.net/

EQUIPMENT MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST

• Big Skinny Wallets - bigskinny.net/
• Google Nest Hub Max - store.google.com/product/google_nest_hub_max
• Google Nest Security Products - https://store.google.com/gb/category/connected_home
• Google Pixel 8 - store.google.com/product/pixel_8
• SCOTTeVest - https://www.scottevest.com/ 
• XPS Laptop Computers - dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-laptops/scr/laptops/appref=xps-product-line