Going online makes firms toe the line; Internet technology enables corporate law departments to impose tech standards on outside counsel and to reduce legal costs

Article Abstract:

The World Wide Web opens up a whole range of technological applications for the law firm. Many smaller, boutique law firms and almost all large firms have Web sites. Law firms and corporate counsel use Intranets for deploying policies and procedures, and some have even implemented them to automate the document assembly process. An important use of browser technology is the management of outside counsel. Cost-cutting was the original emphasis but gradually implementing new technology will be stressed over reducing the number of authorized firms.

Internet, Outside counsel

---

Teamwork can reduce client costs

Article Abstract:

Modern technology facilitates a long-term equitable balance between in-house legal departments and outside counsel, but proactive planning and committment remain key. To establish a cost-efficient, cooperative team, the firm and the company should each appoint one individual to oversee the relationship and resolve problems. The balance of responsibilities will affect who is appointed to the team, with the legal department able to perform many activities, especially those a paralegal might do, at lower cost.

Work groups, Teamwork (Workplace), Law firms

---

To fill compliance role, law department may need an upgrade; added burdens stretch the limits of the general counsel's office

Article Abstract:

The role of the corporate law department in developing an environmental compliance program is to determine corporate duties in this area and report on same to company personnel. These reports should be couched in practical terms so that operating personnel know how to behave in real-life situations. Operating personnel will also need to be kept up to date on changing regulations and made aware that legal compliance is their responsibility. The corporate legal department is there to monitor and advise.

Environmental auditing

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Those mainframes simply don't compute any more. Technology options; law departments stay ahead of law firms. Firms invest in technology to keep an eye on the future
• Abstracts: Getting beyond attitudes. Early birds catch the tax breaks; it is too late to cut 1995's bill, so start now to reduce next year's tab
• Abstracts: Lying federal prosecutor is immune; hands tied, the 1st Circuit refers the case to state and federal ethics panels
• Abstracts: As firms grow more confident, their home pages grow richer. Firms should showcase high-tech capabilities
• Abstracts: Firms should showcase high-tech capabilities. Law firms can reduce Internet security risks; use of proxy gateways, packet filters and encryption restricts outsiders' network access

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.