Law firms across the Southeast are feeling the pressure in 2024. Casework is more digital than ever, clients expect faster communication, and courts are relying heavily on electronic filings and virtual tools — all while cyberattacks targeting law offices continue to rise.
The combination of these 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 When firms rely on older systems or outdated servers, everything slows down — document access, communication, and collaboration.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 and clunky remote access
- difficulties accessing large files from outside the office
- outdated desktop hardware that can’t keep up with current tools
- cluttered file shares with little structure
- conflicting versions of documents and missed updates
- poor mobile access for attorneys who are constantly on the move
These aren’t minor inconveniences anymore; they directly impact the speed and quality of legal work — and how clients experience the firm.
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.
We’re seeing patterns like:
- impersonation emails pretending to be partners or clients
- fraudulent wiring instructions during time-sensitive closings or settlements
- compromised Microsoft 365 accounts used to read and forward case emails
- unauthorized mailbox forwarding rules that quietly copy client correspondence
- attackers monitoring email threads for weeks before making a move
- access attempts from overseas IPs and unfamiliar locations
- malicious attachments disguised as court notices or filings
Even one compromised account can expose case strategy, confidential settlements, or privileged communication — and create significant reputational and financial damage.
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 and staff actually work.
Key priorities this year include:
1. Hardening Microsoft 365
Conditional Access, MFA everywhere, and tighter controls around file sharing and email security. This means reducing risky legacy protocols, limiting external sharing, and using tools like Defender for Office 365 to better protect against phishing and BEC.
2. Better document management
Using SharePoint or a modern DMS to reduce clutter, improve searchability, and keep everyone on the same version of a pleading, contract, or brief. Well-structured document libraries save time and cut down on avoidable errors.
3. Upgraded hardware and Wi-Fi
Ensuring attorneys can work quickly in the office, at home, or in court. This includes modern laptops, reliable conference room setups, and wireless that can handle video, large file sync, and hybrid hearings.
4. Stronger identity protection
Limiting admin access, reducing the number of highly privileged accounts, and monitoring for suspicious sign-in activity. Identity is the new perimeter — so firms need to know who is logging in, from where, and to what.
5. Reliable secure file-sharing
Client communication is faster and safer when firms move away from sending sensitive files over plain email or consumer tools. Secure portals or controlled sharing links give clients easier access and give firms better control.
Why this matters for firms in 2024
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 — from intake to final disposition.
The firms that don’t modernize are noticing the opposite: slower operations, more security stress, and a higher risk of interruptions from outages, ransomware, or account compromise.
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 — practicing law.
Wondering where your firm stands today?
NTS helps law firms across South Georgia and North Florida assess and modernize their IT and security. We focus on Microsoft 365 hardening, secure remote access, document management, and practical protection against phishing and BEC — all aligned with how your attorneys and staff actually work.