In today’s ever-changing world of corporate law, the role of legal technologists has become increasingly crucial. These experts play a key role in integrating technology into legal departments to improve efficiency, manage risks and drive innovation.

Their responsibilities include working with technologies such as legal hold, eDiscovery, document management systems, and contract management platforms. Their main objective is to streamline operations. However, the impact of a tech expert transcends technical prowess; it also depends on their dedication to ongoing learning and growth. This commitment ensures that they not only stay up to date with the latest technological advancements but also anticipate the future needs of their organization.

How to be a Better Legal Technologist for Your Corporate Legal Department

1. Technical Proficiency

At the heart of a tech expert’s role lies their skills. Being adept in tech platforms like eDiscovery tools and document or contract management systems is essential. These tools are vital for managing the amounts of data and documents that legal departments deal with daily, enabling the efficient organization, searchability, and analysis of information.

On top of this, keeping up with data security, privacy and compliance regulations is critical. In today’s world, where the consequences of data breaches are significant, legal professionals in technology must make sure that their organizations adhere to all relevant laws and regulations to protect sensitive data.

Furthermore, having intimate knowledge of data analysis and visualization tools empowers legal tech experts to present complex information clearly and understandably — thereby improving decision-making within their departments. 

2. Effective Communication and Collaboration

However, becoming a better legal technologist is not just about expertise. Legal tech professionals also need to grasp business concepts and be acutely aware of the workflows and challenges specific to their departments. 

This knowledge enables them to translate requirements into solutions that align with the department’s objectives rather than existing as separate entities. Effective communication and collaboration skills are essential for working with IT teams and external vendors to implement and enhance these solutions.

3. Embracing Change

Adapting to change is often one of the more difficult aspects of a technologist’s role. Introducing new technologies can face resistance due to skepticism over traditional methods. Overcoming this challenge requires a defined strategy that promotes user adoption by highlighting the benefits of new technologies, providing comprehensive training, and delivering ongoing support.

By promoting creativity and demonstrating leadership in managing change, professionals in the legal tech field play a central role in modernizing departments and fortifying them against future obstacles.

Becoming a legal tech expert is a process that involves continually expanding one’s adaptable knowledge and striving for top-notch performance. By refining their expertise, immersing themselves in the nuances of business procedures, and adeptly navigating through transformations, legal tech professionals can significantly boost the efficiency and sustainability of their company’s workforce.

In the changing realm of legal technology, continuous enhancement is not just advantageous but vital for those aspiring to stand out as authorities in the domain. Striving for excellence involves forming connections, working collaboratively with others, and honing technical proficiency.

Striving for excellence involves

The field of technology is characterized by shifts in trends, tools, and approaches. To lead the charge in this evolution, legal tech experts must actively pursue opportunities for learning and growth. Engaging with industry publications and taking part in conferences are avenues to stay updated on the developments in legal technology. These platforms not only offer insights into current best practices but also provide a glimpse into where legal tech is headed in the future, enabling professionals to anticipate and adjust to upcoming changes.

Participating in communities and online forums dedicated to technology is another way to stay informed. These platforms help tech professionals share insights and real-life experiences. And by obtaining certifications and attending training programs, a technologist can enhance one’s skills. 

Keeping Apprised of Industry Trends

By taking advantage of these opportunities, legal tech experts ensure they keep abreast of the technologies and methodologies making them valuable assets in their legal departments. Additionally, honing problem-solving and critical thinking abilities empowers legal tech professionals to create solutions for the challenges they encounter within their teams. These skills are vital for navigating the complexities of technology and ensuring that implemented solutions genuinely boost productivity and efficiency.

On top of this, nurturing skills play a role in establishing trust and collaborating effectively with various stakeholders. Whether interacting with colleagues, vendors, or external partners, the capacity to engage positively and empathetically can significantly influence the success of technology projects.

Becoming a technologist is an ongoing journey that requires dedication to learning, flexibility, and excellence. By staying updated on industry trends, building relationships, and refining soft skills, legal tech experts can not only enhance their own capabilities but also foster meaningful innovation within their legal teams. As technology continues to progress, those who embrace these improvement practices will be well prepared to lead their organizations toward future success.

Jennifer-Buckley

Author

Jennifer Buckley

Vice President, Account Management

Jennifer Buckley is Casepoint’s Vice President of Account Management where she is responsible for creating and managing client relationships. She brings 23+ years of experience supporting major corporate clients and top tier Am Law 250 firms.  Prior to joining Casepoint, Jennifer was Vice President of an emerging e-Discovery company in Los Angeles…