How the Pandemic Has Changed the Way Lawyers Conduct Business
When the pandemic hit last year, lawyers were among the first to adapt to meet the needs of their clients and their practices. While many of those changes were assumed to be temporary, it’s becoming clear that COVID-19 may well result in some fundamental shifts in the way attorneys work.
The Ability to Practice Anywhere
Perhaps the most significant change wrought by the pandemic is how it’s changed the perception of physical space. Before the coronavirus, some firms had explored telecommuting and videoconferencing on a limited basis. When the pandemic hit, those methods suddenly became the only ways to get certain work done, such as court hearings and client meetings. Because of the changes necessitated by COVID-19, it’s now clear that, with a video camera, a decent microphone, and an internet connection, a lawyer can practice anywhere.
The Impact of Remote Practice
Whether you’re in an established practice or just out of law school, remote practice has the potential for tremendous cost savings, as you may be able to rent a much smaller office, or you may not need office space at all. If you decide that you do need office space, you can expect to pay less, as there is likely be a glut. If you only need space on a periodic basis, look for space-sharing services, such as The Legal Café, where you can purchase different levels of access to meet your needs.
The ability to practice remotely also promises to reduce stress levels and wasted time. You won’t lose the time it takes to commute back and forth, and you can work on a brief or draft pleadings in the comfort of your own home, with your dog at your feet!
A caveat, though—be careful to draw a clear line between work and home when you telecommute. You may need to set up your office at the opposite end of the house, or close your door when you’re working, as others may not immediately recognize when you’re on the clock.
The Importance of Technological Skills
You’ll need a certain amount of technological savvy to navigate the post-COVID legal profession, whether to submit pleadings digitally, meet with clients by videoconference, manage your social media platforms, or correspond with clients by e-mail. The good news—most systems are now user-friendly and fairly intuitive, so you can quickly become an old pro. At GetLegal, we are intimately familiar with the various technological tools and developments that can enhance your practice, and we’re always available to help you become proficient.
Contact GetLegal for All Your Digital Marketing Needs
At GetLegal, we have provided comprehensive online marketing services to lawyers and law firms nationwide for more than two decades. We offer full-service website development, with custom content and design. We also provide search engine optimization, social media marketing, full video production, directory listings, and online reputation management products. For more information about how we can help you build and improve your practice in the wake of COVID-19, call 1-817-359-7077 or contact us online.