Law firms across the Southeast are feeling the pressure. Casework is more digital than ever, clients expect faster communication, and courts are relying heavily on electronic filings and virtual tools. At the same time, cyberattacks targeting law offices are rising fast — driven by the value of sensitive case files, financial information, and confidential client communications.
The combination of these two forces is pushing firms to modernize their IT and security in ways that simply weren’t necessary a few years ago. Many firms are now realizing that the tools and systems they relied on for the last decade can’t keep up with the pace of today’s work or today’s threats.
Modern casework demands modern technology
Most legal work now depends on:
- Microsoft 365 and email
- electronic document management
- cloud-based case systems
- remote access to files and depositions
- eDiscovery platforms
- virtual meetings and hearings
- secure file-sharing with clients and opposing counsel
These tools expect reliable connectivity, up-to-date security, and proper identity controls. When firms rely on older systems or outdated servers, everything slows down — document access, communication, and collaboration.
We continue to see firms struggling with:
- slow VPN connections
- difficulties accessing large files remotely
- outdated desktop hardware
- cluttered file shares with little structure
- conflicting versions of documents
- poor mobile access for attorneys on the go
These aren’t minor inconveniences anymore; they directly impact the speed and quality of legal work.
Cybersecurity is now a core responsibility — not an IT checkbox
Law firms handle some of the most sensitive information outside the healthcare and financial industries. And attackers know it. In 2024, ransomware groups, phishing campaigns, and business email compromise (BEC) attacks are targeting law firms at a higher rate than ever before.
We’re seeing:
- impersonation emails pretending to be partners or clients
- fraudulent wiring instructions
- compromised Microsoft 365 accounts
- unauthorized mailbox forwarding rules
- attackers monitoring email threads quietly for weeks
- access attempts from overseas IPs
- malicious attachments disguised as court notices
Even one compromised account can expose a case strategy, a confidential settlement, or privileged communication.
What modernization looks like for today’s firms
Law firms don’t need enterprise-level complexity. They need clean, reliable, well-secured systems that support the way attorneys work.
Key priorities this year include:
- Hardening Microsoft 365
Conditional Access, MFA everywhere, and tighter controls around file sharing and email security. - Better document management
Using SharePoint or modern DMS tools to reduce clutter, improve searchability, and keep everyone on the same version. - Upgraded hardware and Wi-Fi
Ensures attorneys can work quickly in the office, in court, or remotely. - Stronger identity protection
Limiting admin access, reviewing permissions, and monitoring for suspicious account activity. - Reliable secure file-sharing
Client communication is faster and safer when firms move away from outdated or risky methods.
Why this matters for firms
Clients and courts expect responsiveness, clarity, and security. Firms that modernize their IT can turn work around faster, keep data better protected, and present a more professional experience at every step.
The firms that don’t modernize are noticing the opposite — slower operations, more security stress, and more risk of interruption.
Modern IT isn’t about technology for its own sake. It’s about protecting clients, improving efficiency, and helping attorneys focus on the work that matters most.