No one was hurt in the production of this post! 😉
Remember when the phone cord doubled as a toy and a fashion accessory?
Today, our phones are detached from the wall, and our speakers are Bluetooth devices in our ears.
Kids might miss out on the joy of cord tangling, but at least they won't trip over the phone! 😄📱
In today’s fast-paced world, smart technology has become an essential part of our daily lives, revolutionizing how we manage our homes and workplaces. Integrating smart technology makes daily chores easier and offers strong security measures to safeguard our homes and private data. From smart locks and thermostats to integrated security systems, these advancements provide unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and protection.
Today, we are joined by Alexander Paykin. He is a commercial litigator, real estate litigator, business lawyer, complex transaction attorney, and the managing director and sole owner of The Law Office of Alexander Paykin, P.C. He is a successful advocate for many complex topics because of his varied life experiences, which have enabled him to comprehend other cultures, mentalities, and points of view. Mr. Paykin's firm is designed as a high-tech, client-centered law firm that focuses on providing efficient services in litigation and complex transactions involving business/commerce, finance, and real estate. On behalf of the American Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, and other attorney associations and groups, Mr. Paykin often instructs fellow attorneys in continuing legal education (CLE) seminars. In the first part of our conversation with him, he explains how he uses technology to enhance his overall quality of life.
IN OUR CONVERSATION WE COVER:
[01.35] Tech setup – Alexander explains his current tech setup and why he recommends investing in a secondary screen.
[07.46] Data management – Alexander explains his data management and backup strategy.
[12.58] Encrypted backups – Alexander explains their backup strategy to protect against ransomware and data loss.
[18.31] Alexander explains why he uses two smartphones.
[22.16] Safety & Security – Michael explains his approach, which combines practicality with security, showing how to keep essentials organized while minimizing risks.
[25.32] What’s in Alex’s wallet?
[30.12] Technology and daily life – Alexander explains their comprehensive smart home and office setup, focusing on convenience and security.
RESOURCES
Connect with Alexander
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/alexanderpaykin/
Website - paykinlaw.net/
Equipment Mentioned in this Episode
Big Skinny Wallets - bigskinny.net/
Google Nest Hub Max - store.google.com/product/google_nest_hub_max
Google Nest Security Products - https://store.google.com/gb/category/connected_home
Google Pixel 8 - store.google.com/product/pixel_8
SCOTTeVest - https://www.scottevest.com/
XPS Laptop Computers - dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-laptops/scr/laptops/appref=xps-product-line
a faulty software update from CrowdStrike created caos for many industries - lawyers may have been one of them!
Last week, the legal community was jolted by a significant disruption caused by a faulty software update from CrowdStrike, a leading cybersecurity firm 🛡️. This update, intended for Microsoft Windows systems, led to widespread outages, affecting numerous sectors, including airlines ✈️, hospitals 🏥, and financial institutions 🏦. The incident serves as a stark reminder for lawyers about the vulnerabilities inherent in relying solely on a single operating system or service provider.
The Fallout Across Sectors 🌪️
The CrowdStrike update, deployed on July 19, 2024, inadvertently caused Windows machines to crash, displaying the infamous "Blue Screen of Death" (BSOD) 💀. This glitch had a domino effect, particularly in sectors heavily reliant on Windows-based systems. Airlines were among the hardest hit, with thousands of flights canceled or delayed as check-in and scheduling systems went offline ❌. For instance, Delta Air Lines and its affiliates canceled over 1,100 flights, while other major airlines faced similar disruptions.
Hospitals and emergency services also experienced significant setbacks 🚑. In the United States, the Emergency Alert System reported 911 outages in several states, while hospitals in Germany and Israel had to cancel non-urgent surgeries and reroute ambulances. Financial institutions, including banks in Australia and New Zealand, faced system inaccessibility, affecting transactions and customer services 💳.
The Impact on Apple Users 🍎
Interestingly, Apple users remained largely unaffected by this debacle. The faulty update was specific to Windows systems running CrowdStrike's Falcon software, leaving macOS and Linux systems unscathed 😌. However, Apple computers may have been indirectly impacted due to services that run on Windows-based platforms, such as Software as a Service (SaaS) applications and Windows-based servers. This highlights that even if the hardware and operating systems are secure, dependencies on Windows-based services can still cause disruptions.
Lessons for Lawyers 📚⚖️
Lawyers can learn many lessons from the crowdstrike snafu!
The CrowdStrike incident is a powerful lesson for lawyers and law firms about the importance of tech diversification and robust contingency planning. Here are some key takeaways:
Cross-Platform Services 🔄: Relying on a single operating system or service provider can be risky. Lawyers should consider integrating both Windows and macOS systems within their practices. Similarly, using both iPhone 📱 and Android 🤖 devices can mitigate risks associated with platform-specific outages.
Redundant Internet and Cellular Providers 📡: Ensuring that your practice has access to multiple internet and cellular providers can prevent complete shutdowns during service outages.
Secure and Reliable Data Backups 💾: Regularly backing up data to secure, redundant locations is crucial. Cloud-based services ☁️, external hard drives, and even physical copies can ensure that critical information remains accessible during tech crises.
Cybersecurity Vigilance 🔐: Staying updated with the latest security patches and updates is essential. However, it's equally important to have a protocol for quickly addressing any issues that arise from these updates.
The CrowdStrike MS Windows SNAFU should serve as a wake-up call for the legal community 🚨. Diversifying tech infrastructure and maintaining robust, secure data backups are not just best practices—they are essential strategies for ensuring continuity and resilience in the face of unforeseen disruptions. By learning from this incident, lawyers can better safeguard their practices and continue to serve their clients effectively, even in the midst of technological crises 💪.
Happy Monday, tech-savvy lawyers! This week’s Monday Morning Humor gently pokes fun at the recent CrowdStrike mishap with a couple of humorous pictures and cartoons. Windows users, we feel your pain with the infamous “Blue Screen of Death” 💻💀. Meanwhile, Apple users sit smugly, unaffected 😏🍎. Remember, it’s all in good fun—stay secure and prepared out there! 🔒😊
Lawyers who use ms windows need to check and make sure their computers are working ok!
Recent updates by CloudStrike have caused disruptions in Microsoft Windows globally, affecting many IT infrastructures.
This has impacted airlines, hospitals, transportation infrastructure and could include law firms and court operations! This may be one of the few times that updating your (Windows) operating system is not a good idea.
This highlights the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and the need for legal professionals to stay informed. Ensure your firm's IT team is aware of the latest updates and potential vulnerabilities - if you are a solo or small firm using Windows, you need to make sure your office systems are ok. Staying proactive can mitigate risks and safeguard client data.
Stay tuned to The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page as this story develops!
How will technological advancements impact the practice of law? 🧐
As a lawyer deeply invested in the intersection of law and technology, I understand the rapid evolution reshaping our profession. My recent experience at the MacStock 8 Conference outside of Chicago reinforced the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements. Here’s how I believe we, as legal professionals, can prepare for the changes in technology today, one year from now, five years from now, and in the future.
Today!
To enhance efficiency and client service, lawyers must embrace current technological tools. David Wilkins, director of the Center on the Legal Profession at Harvard Law School, emphasizes the importance of AI in legal practice: "Every other conversation I have is about ChatGPT and how it will impact the practice of law". To prepare, we should:
Familiarize ourselves with AI-powered legal research tools;
Adopt cloud-based document management systems[1];
Implement robust cybersecurity measures;
Learn to use e-discovery software for more efficient case preparation.
Participating in tech conferences at any level can help enhance your knowledge of the tech tools you use for work! 🤗
At MacStock 8, I presented on "Harnessing ChatGPT for Apple Enthusiasts: Revolutionizing Shortcuts, Automations, and AI-Powered Analysis." This topic underscores how general-purpose technology can be leveraged for legal applications. As I mentioned in my MacVoices interview, "I'm going to be talking about insights into using artificial intelligence for automation tools like Hazel, AppleScript, TextExpander, and Microsoft Word".
One Year from Now!
As technology continues to advance, we should focus on integrating more sophisticated tools into our practice. This includes:
Exploring AI-powered contract analysis software;
Implementing virtual law firm models to offer remote legal services;
Utilizing predictive analytics for litigation strategy;
Adopting legal chatbots for basic client interactions.
It’s not too hard to see that AI-powered tools can analyze vast amounts of legal data, providing lawyers with comprehensive insights, relevant case law, and accurate precedents. By harnessing these capabilities, lawyers who use AI can gain a significant competitive advantage.
Five Years from Now!
Looking further ahead, we should prepare for more transformative changes in legal technology. This may involve:
Incorporating blockchain technology for smart contracts and secure transactions;
Utilizing augmented reality (AR) for immersive courtroom presentations;
Leveraging advanced data analytics for strategic decision-making;
Adapting to new regulatory technology (RegTech) solutions for compliance management.
As noted by legal tech experts, "Blockchain technology is gaining traction in legal operations, primarily for its ability to enhance security, transparency, and efficiency".
The Future!
In the long term, we must be ready to embrace radical changes in the legal profession. This includes:
How will ai impact the practice of law with concepts like “smart contracts”?
Developing expertise in emerging areas of law related to AI;
Adapting to potential shifts in legal education and licensing;
Preparing for the possibility of AI-assisted judging and decision-making;
Exploring new business models that combine legal expertise with technological innovation.
David Wilkins suggests that the future of law will require a new approach to legal education: "How can we best prepare students for the new realities of legal careers in the middle decades of the 21st century?".
To thrive in this evolving landscape, we must commit to continuous learning and adaptation. This means not only staying current with legal developments but also actively engaging with technological advancements. We should:
Regularly attend both legal and general technology conferences;
Participate in online courses on emerging technologies;
Collaborate with tech professionals to understand new tools and their applications;
Advocate for technology training within our firms or organizations.
By proactively preparing for technological changes, we can position ourselves as leaders in the field, offering innovative solutions to clients and contributing to the advancement of the legal profession. As the legal industry continues to evolve, those who embrace technology will be best equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead!
MTC!
[1] https://lexworkplace.com/best-legal-document-management-software/
In 1980, "portable" computers were like carrying a briefcase full of bricks, with machines like the Osborne 1 weighing around 24 pounds.
By the 1990s, laptops like the IBM ThinkPad and Apple PowerBook made portability a bit more practical, though still hefty enough to double as a doorstop.
Fast forward to the 2000s, and we have ultrabooks, tablets, and smartphones.
Today, our "portable" tech is so advanced that even a lawyer’s least favorite document fits into their pocket.
What’s next, wearable gavel 👨⚖️ watches ⌚︎?!
In the legal landscape, the adoption of new technologies offers remarkable benefits. Tools like AI-driven document drafting systems empower attorneys to efficiently create complex legal documents without needing advanced technical skills. Embracing these kinds of technologies will save time and allow legal professionals to focus on higher-value tasks.
Troy Doucet is a top-rated litigation attorney, legal tech innovator, and the founder of AI.Law, a legal document drafting system. Having studied economics in college and built a prestigious practice as a litigation lawyer, he has a unique viewpoint on the revolutionary possibilities of artificial intelligence. His knowledge of the litigation process is currently being directed toward creating artificial intelligence to increase accessibility to the legal system. Troy frequently lectures about the impact of artificial intelligence on the legal sector and how it will fundamentally change the way lawyers provide services. Troy has taught multiple programs on consumer law, real estate law, and AI.
Troy and I discuss the following three questions and more!
What are the top three things AI.Law can do either faster or better than an attorney who does not use AI.Law?
What are three ways AI dot law prevents hallucinations, and what are the top three things attorneys should do when using AI to help draft their documents, prevent you to prevent hallucinations?
What inspired you to create AI.Law?
In our conversation, we cover:
[01.29] Tech setup – Troy’s current tech setup.
[02.44] AI.Law – Troy explains how AI.Law works on mobile devices.
[05.00] Learning obstacles – Troy shares how he shifted from Android to Apple.
[08.41] The benefits – The advantages of using AI.Law.
[11.44] Computer proficiency – Troy explains why lawyers don’t need advanced technical skills to use AI.Law.
[13.52] Efficiency – Troy explains how AI.Law can save time and allows legal professionals to focus on higher-value tasks.
[18.25] Hallucinations – A guide to minimize hallucinations.
[21.09] Other AIs – Troy talks about the AI products he uses other than AI.Law.
[22.17] The inspiration – Troy explains what inspired him to create AI.Law.
[26.00] Terms of Services – The terms of services people should look out for when using AI.
[29.48] The usage of AI – The importance of choosing the AI that will work best for you.
[33.40] Do It Yourself – Troy explains his take on lawyers using AI as a DIY service.
[38.29] Emotional component – How AI can help people in unexpected situations in life.
Resources:
Connect with Troy
LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/tdoucet/
Website – ai.law/
Equipment Mentioned in the Podcast
HyperX Vision S Webcam – hyperx.com/products/hyperx-vision-s-webcam?variant=43855670411421
Infinite RS desktop - us.msi.com/Desktop/Infinite-RS-14th
iPhone 15 - apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-15
Software & Services Mentioned in the Podcast
AI.law - ai.law/
MacRumors - macrumors.com/
Equipment Mentioned in the Podcast
HyperX Vision S Webcam – hyperx.com/products/hyperx-vision-s-webcam?variant=43855670411421
Infinite RS desktop - us.msi.com/Desktop/Infinite-RS-14th
iPhone 15 - apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-15
Software & Services Mentioned in the Podcast
AI.law - ai.law/
MacRumors - macrumors.com/
Previous The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Podcast guest Caroline Elefant of MyShingle discusses the legal and ethical issues of creating custom ChatGPTs for public use by law firms. Key points include:
Lawyers need to remember that they have ethical responsibilities to their bar when offering chatgpts for public use!
AI Disclosure: Lawyers must inform users they are interacting with an AI, not a human.
Supervision: Ensuring AI outputs are accurate through constant testing and clear disclaimers.
Confidentiality: Advising users against sharing personal details to prevent privacy breaches.
Unauthorized Practice of Law: Avoiding legal advice by providing general information with clear disclaimers.
We all must remember that a computer or AI does not replace human judgment!
For more details, visit her article on MySingle.
Some highlights from my interview with Chuck Joiner from MacVoices about the Road to MacStock 8!
Recently, I had the pleasure of joining Chuck Joiner on his popular show, MacVoices, to discuss several fascinating topics that I’m passionate about. This interview was a comprehensive preview of what to expect from the upcoming 2024 MacStock 8 conference, where I’ll be presenting on the exciting intersection of artificial intelligence and Apple products. For those who missed it, here’s a highlight reel of our engaging conversation.
Will I see you this weekend at Macstock?!
One of the primary subjects we tackled was my forthcoming presentation at MacStock 8. My session titled "Harnessing AI for Enhanced Productivity with Mac Products" will delve into practical ways that AI can revolutionize how we use our Macs for both professional and personal tasks. From the get-go, I emphasized that AI is not just a futuristic concept but a present-day reality that can significantly reduce repetitive tasks, simplify complex processes, and free up valuable time for more critical activities.
Chuck and I discussed several AI tools and applications that Macintosh users can integrate into their workflow. Most notably, we touched on automation tools like TextExpander and Hazel, which can be supercharged with AI to perform tasks more efficiently. I shared some insider tips on how AI can help with creating sophisticated Hazel rules or simplifying Apple Scripts, even if you don’t have a programming background.
Check out Chuck’s podcast Macvoices!
We also explored how AI can be a game-changer for legal professionals. As a practicing attorney myself, I've leveraged AI to streamline various operations, from drafting documents to managing large volumes of case files. I highlighted how tools like ChatGPT can assist in generating initial drafts, while emphasizing the crucial need for human oversight to verify facts and ensure accuracy.
Our discussion took a deeper dive into new AI technologies and their real-world applications. For instance, I shared insights on using AI for automated legal research, predictive analytics to forecast case outcomes, and even virtual legal assistants that can handle client interactions. These advancements are not only making legal work more efficient but also more accessible to individuals who may not have the resources to afford traditional legal services.
Enjoy!
You can check out the full interview here on Chuck's MacVoices website.
* Note this week's editorial is canceled as I am preparing last minute details to my presentation and keeping work afloat my day job! 😀
MICHAEL D.J. EISENBERG IS A WASHINGTON, DC ATTORNEY WHO LOVES HIS TECH.
I've spent years helping lawyers—young and old—tackle their tech challenges. Now, I’m bringing that knowledge to a broader audience with this blog. My posts are inspired by real questions I’ve been asked and the trends shaping the future.
Whether you're a tech novice or a pro, you'll find practical insights here to streamline your legal practice and improve your daily life. Let’s make technology work for you, not against you. 😀
DISCLAIMER: I cannot and do not offer any guarantee of computer hardware, software, services, practice, etc. discussed in this blog. Use at your own risk. Further, I am not offering any legal advice nor do the discussions in this blog create an attorney-client relationship.
