Tip of the Week Blog

March 2007, Week 4

5 Things That Can Mess Up Your Computer

For Staff...


Sometimes, users create problems for their computers and for the network.

Every law firm depends on their computers to keep the documents flowing and business running. Some common errors that are preventable problems:

3. Neglect to run or update antivirus and anti-spyware programs.

Sometimes you have to disable antivirus programs to install new software, and they have to be updated on a regular basis. Even though they are a pain, you can't afford to go without virus protection. Spyware can install itself without your knowledge.

To Be Continued next week...

Blogging -- Did You Check With Your Insurance Carrier?
For Administrators...

Executive Risk Specialty (a unit of Chubb) has told one of its New Jersey insureds that blogging "is not a risk they are interested in undertaking." The reasons weren't specified. However, one leading malpractice consultant speculates that the key component to evaluating the risk is probably a strong disclaimer in the blog. Other experts say that the risk is blown out of proportion since blogging is not qualitatively different from other forms of communication a firm might use.

Is this an issue your firm needs to worry about? They only way to know for sure is to check with your insurance carrier.

The full article is in the Small Firm newsletter.
 
The "Worthiness" Factor
For Attorneys...

Continued from last week...

According to the Attorneys' Liability Assurance Society, "The first line of defense against unworthy clients is a sound business intake system."

What is involved in a sound intake process?

2. Creditworthiness Review: Telling a prospective client that you want permission to conduct a credit check is probably not going to win any points with the client. There is, however, a wealth of information available on the internet through a wide range of sources. The obvious sources might be Dunn & Bradstreet and Moody's. Other online sources of company and individual credit information include CRIBIS, Experian, Thomas West and Equifax Inc.

More about that in the following weeks - or you can read the entire article now.  And if you need help in putting these (or any systems) in place, contact us at info@legallylarge.com. We're here to help.

 


 

March 2007, Week 1

Desk Organization

For Staff...


1. Do you have the things you use daily within easy reach? (That includes phone, stapler, supplies, computer manual, etc.) YES NO

2. Are your daily files at your desk? YES NO

3. Do you have an "IN" and "OUT" box (or "TO DO" and "DONE" box)? YES NO

4. Do you have mail slots for each person you support, plus yourself? YES NO

5. Do you have a separate file for Pending Client Numbers, Reimbursements/ Checks, Incoming Mail, etc.? YES NO

If you answered "No" to any one of these questions, you'll want to read this Organizing article.

Could Your Firm Be Assessed A Fine?
For Administrators...

I recently consulted with a law firm on the creation of their website and writing the site text. Many attorneys and administrators don't realize that the State Bar of Texas must approve their firm's text and complete website. While speaking with representatives of the Advertising section, I discovered that they're actively searching out attorney websites that have not been approved and are assessing fines. So... you may want to check on your site's approval. If you're not sure who to call or need help with your website, contact nickie@legallylarge.com and I'll be happy to help.
 
Productive Use of Legal Assistants & Paralegals
For Attorneys...

Assume Responsibility: Take responsibility for what you say and do in conferences with your staff and don't take out your frustrations for a failure on them. Basically, don't fly off the handle if something goes wrong. Because, let's face it, that will definitely happen sometime.

 


 

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