lawyers need to know the difference between travel adapters v. travel converters when they go overseas!

If your legal practice takes you beyond borders, understanding the difference between a travel converter and a travel adapter can protect both your tech investments and casework productivity. In many law offices, especially those with moderate technology exposure, these small devices often seem interchangeable; yet, their functions are quite different and critical for global legal engagements.

A travel adapter lets you plug your device into a foreign socket by reshaping your plug to fit the local outlet type. Adapters, however, do not change the local voltage. That means your laptop or phone charger will connect, but the electricity passing through remains at the voltage standard of the country you are in. Since most modern electronics, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, are dual-voltage (able to handle 100–240V), attorneys typically need only an appropriate adapter for these everyday tech tools.

A travel converter steps in when you need to change the actual voltage from the wall. American devices, such as hair dryers or some older law office equipment, may only be rated for 110V. If you plug these into a 220V outlet abroad with only an adapter, you risk damaging both the device and possibly your law firm’s reputation for being detail-oriented. A converter safely transforms the foreign voltage to match your device’s needs, ensuring you avoid costly mishaps.

lawyers be your firm’s travel warrior - know the type of electrical plug you need when traveling abroad!

How do you know which you need? Check the voltage label on each device. If it lists a range (like 100–240V), an adapter will suffice. If it’s fixed (like “120V only”), you must use a converter in countries with higher voltages, which is common across Europe and Asia. For attorneys on the move, a universal adapter set and a small, reliable converter can prevent technical disruptions during critical casework, presentations, or evidentiary document reviews.

Law office takeaway: Adapters make devices fit; converters make power safe. Read your device labels before you leave and never assume one solution works everywhere. Bring both if uncertain—being overprepared is a legal virtue. Safe travels and seamless connectivity! ✈️⚖️

Happy Lawyering!

Our next guest is Matthew Veale, a European patent attorney and Patsnap's Professional Systems team member. He introduces the AI-powered innovation intelligence platform, Patsnap. Matthew explains how Patsnap supports IP and R&D professionals through tools for patent analytics, prior art searches, and strategic innovation mapping.

Furthermore, Matthew highlights Patsnap's AI-driven capabilities, including semantic search and patent drafting support, while emphasizing its adherence to strict data security and ISO standards. He outlines three key ways lawyers can leverage AI—note-taking, document drafting, and creative ideation—while warning of risks like data quality, security, and transparency.

Join Matthew and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

What are the top three ways IP and R&D lawyers can use Patsnap's AI to help them with their work?
What are the top three ways lawyers can use AI in their day-to-day work, regardless of the practice area?
What are the top three issues lawyers should be wary of when using AI?

In our conversation, we covered the following:

[01:07] Matthew Tech Setup

[04:43] Introduction to Pat Snap and Its Features

[13:17] Top Three Ways Lawyers Can Use AI in Their Work

[17:29] Ensuring Confidentiality and Security in AI Tools

[19:24] Transparency and Ethical Use of AI in Legal Practice

[22:13] Contact Information

Resources:

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