🎙️TSL Labs! MTC: The Hidden AI Crisis in Legal Practice: Why Lawyers Must Unmask Embedded Intelligence Before It's Too Late!

📌 Too Busy to Read This Week's Editorial?

Join us for a professional deep dive into essential tech strategies for AI compliance in your legal practice. 🎙️ This AI-powered discussion unpacks the November 17, 2025, editorial, MTC: The Hidden AI Crisis in Legal Practice: Why Lawyers Must Unmask Embedded Intelligence Before It's Too Late! with actionable intelligence on hidden AI detection, confidentiality protocols, ethics compliance frameworks, and risk mitigation strategies. Artificial intelligence has been silently operating inside your most trusted legal software for years, and under ABA Formal Opinion 512, you bear full responsibility for all AI use, whether you knowingly activated it or it came as a default software update. The conversation makes complex technical concepts accessible to lawyers with varying levels of tech expertise—from tech-hesitant solo practitioners to advanced users—so you'll walk away with immediate, actionable steps to protect your practice, your clients, and your professional reputation.

In Our Conversation, We Cover the Following

00:00:00 - Introduction: Overview of TSL Labs initiative and the AI-generated discussion format

00:01:00 - The Silent Compliance Crisis: How AI has been operating invisibly in your software for years

00:02:00 - Core Conflict: Understanding why helpful tools simultaneously create ethical threats to attorney-client privilege

00:03:00 - Document Creation Vulnerabilities: Microsoft Word Co-pilot and Grammarly's hidden data processing

00:04:00 - Communication Tools Risks: Zoom AI Companion and the cautionary Otter.ai incident

00:05:00 - Research Platform Dangers: Westlaw and Lexis+ AI hallucination rates between 17-33%

00:06:00 - ABA Formal Opinion 512: Full lawyer responsibility for AI use regardless of awareness

00:07:00 - Model Rule 1.6 Analysis: Confidentiality breaches through third-party AI systems

00:08:00 - Model Rule 5.3 Requirements: Supervising AI tools with the same diligence as human assistants

00:09:00 - Five-Step Compliance Framework: Technology audits and vendor agreement evaluation

00:10:00 - Firm Policies and Client Consent: Establishing protocols and securing informed consent

00:11:00 - The Verification Imperative: Lessons from the Mata v. Avianca sanctions case

00:12:00 - Billing Considerations: Navigating hourly versus value-based fee models with AI

00:13:00 - Professional Development: Why tool learning time is non-billable competence maintenance

00:14:00 - Ongoing Compliance: The necessity of quarterly reviews as platforms rapidly evolve

00:15:00 - Closing Remarks: Resources and call to action for tech-savvy innovation

Resources

Mentioned in the Episode

• ABA Formal Opinion 512 (July 29, 2024): Ethical guidance on generative artificial intelligence tools - https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/administrative/professional_responsibility/ethics-opinions/aba-formal-opinion-512.pdf

• Model Rule 1.1 (Competence) - Understanding benefits and risks of relevant technology - https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_8_current_clients_specific_rules/

• Model Rule 1.6 (Confidentiality) - Preventing unauthorized disclosure of client information - https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_6_confidentiality_of_information/

• Model Rule 5.3 (Supervision) - Supervising non-human assistance including AI - https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_5_3_responsibilities_regarding_nonlawyer_assistant/

• Model Rule 1.4 (Communication) - Informing clients about AI use and obtaining consent - https://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_4_communications/

• Mata v. Avianca Case - Landmark sanctions case involving AI-generated fabricated citations - https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/new-york/nysdce/1:2022cv01461/575368/54/

• Stanford Research - Documented AI hallucination rates between 17-33% in legal tools - https://dho.stanford.edu/wp-content/uploads/Legal_RAG_Hallucinations.pdf

Software & Cloud Services Mentioned in the Conversation

• Adobe Acrobat AI Assistant - Automatic document analysis and summarization tool - https://www.adobe.com/acrobat.html

• Clio - Legal practice management platform with AI features - https://www.clio.com

• Google Notebook AI - AI discussion generation tool used to create this episode - https://notebooklm.google.com

• Grammarly - AI writing assistant analyzing email and document content - https://www.grammarly.com

• Lexis+ AI - AI-enhanced legal research platform - https://www.lexisnexis.com

• Microsoft Word Co-pilot - AI-powered writing assistant with substantive editing capabilities - https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/word

• Otter.ai - AI meeting assistant and transcription service - https://otter.ai

• Smokeball - Practice management with Auto Time AI billing - https://www.smokeball.com

• Westlaw - Legal research platform with embedded generative AI - https://legal.thomsonreuters.com/en/products/westlaw

• Zoom AI Companion - Meeting transcription and analysis service - https://www.zoom.com

🎙️ Ep. 121: Iowa Personal Injury Lawyer Tim Semelroth on AI Expert Testimony Prep, Claude for Legal Research and Client Communications Tech!

My next guest is Tim Semelroth. Tim is an Iowa personal injury attorney from RSH Legal, who leverages cutting-edge AI tools, including Notebook LM for expert testimony preparation, Claude AI for dictation, and SIO for medical records analysis. He shares practical strategies for maintaining client relationships through e-signatures, texting integration, and automated birthday card systems while embracing legal technology. All this and more, enjoy.

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

1. What are the top three ways lawyers can leverage AI tools like ChatGPT and Notebook LM to prepare for expert testimony or cross-examination? And how do you ensure client confidentiality when using these tools?

2. What are the top three technology tools or systems that personal injury attorneys should implement to streamline their practice when handling cases involving trucking accidents, medical records analysis, and insurance negotiations?

3. What are the top three strategies you recommend for attorneys to maintain personal relationships with clients and community involvement, while also embracing cutting-edge legal technology to improve practice efficiency?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[00:01:00] Introduction and guest tech setup discussion

[00:02:00] Dell hardware specifications and IT outsourcing strategy

[00:03:00] Smartphone preferences - iPhone 16 and iPad Pro

[00:04:00] Cross-platform compatibility between Windows and Mac environments

[00:05:00] Web-based software solutions for remote work flexibility

[00:06:00] Plaud AI dictation hardware - features and use cases

[00:07:00] Dictation while exercising and driving - mobile workflows

[00:08:00] Essential software stack - File Vine, Lead Docket, and SIO

[00:09:00] AI tools for expert testimony preparation and HIPAA compliance

[00:10:00] Simplifying complex legal language for jury comprehension

[00:11:00] Using AI to brainstorm cross-examination topics and preparation

[00:12:00] Notebook LM audio overview feature for testimony preparation

[00:13:00] Client communication preferences - e-signatures and texting

[00:14:00] File Vine texting integration for client communications

[00:15:00] Case management alerts and notification systems

[00:17:00] Client preferences for phone vs. video communication

[00:18:00] Rural client challenges and electronic communication benefits

[00:20:00] SIO AI platform for medical records analysis

[00:21:00] Medical chronology automation and document management

[00:22:00] Jurisdiction-specific customization for demand letters

[00:23:00] Content repurposing strategy across multiple platforms

[00:24:00] LinkedIn marketing for lawyer referral relationships

[00:25:00] Multi-channel newsletter approach - digital and print

[00:26:00] Print newsletter effectiveness for legal professionals

[00:27:00] SEO benefits and peer recognition from content marketing

[00:28:00] Client communication policy - 30-day contact requirements

[00:29:00] Proactive client outreach through text messaging

[00:30:00] Automated birthday card system for client retention

[00:31:00] The Marv Stallman Rule - personal marketing through cards

[00:32:00] Technology-enabled client relationship management

[00:33:00] Contact information and social media presence

RESOURCES

Connect with Tim!

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-semelroth/

• Firm Website: https://www.fightingforfairness.com

Hardware mentioned in the conversation

• Dell Precision 5490 laptop: https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-laptops/precision-5490-mobile-workstation/spd/precision-14-5490-laptop

• Dell SC2722HX dual monitors (4K): https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-27-4k-uhd-usb-c-hub-monitor-s2722dz/apd/210-ayue

• Dell UltraSharp 4K UHD Webcam: https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-ultrasharp-4k-webcam-wb7022/apd/520-aaul

• iPad Pro: https://www.apple.com/ipad-pro/

• iPhone 16: https://www.apple.com/iphone-16/

• Mac (family computer): https://www.apple.com/mac/

• Plaud AI Note recorder: https://www.plaud.ai/products/plaud-note-ai-voice-recorder

• Plaud AI Pin: https://www.plaud.ai/collections/collection-for-all-device

Software & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation

• Audible: https://www.audible.com/

• ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/

• Claude AI: https://claude.ai/

• File Vine (Case Management): https://www.filevine.com/

• Lead Docket (Lead Management): https://www.leaddocket.com/

• Microsoft Outlook Add-In (File Vine): https://www.filevine.com/integrations/

• Notebook LM (Google): https://notebooklm.google.com/

• SIO (AI Medical Records Analysis): https://www.supio.com/ 

Subscribe to The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to leave us a five-star review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

MTC: Is Puerto Rico’s Professional Responsibility Rule 1.19 Really Necessary? A Technology Competence Perspective.

Is PR’s Rule 1.19 necessary?

The legal profession stands at a crossroads regarding technological competence requirements. With forty states already adopting Comment 8 to Model Rule 1.1, which mandates lawyers "keep abreast of changes in the law and its practice, including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology," the question emerges: do we need additional rules like PR Rule 1.19?

Comment 8 to Rule 1.1 establishes clear parameters for technological competence. This amendment, adopted by the ABA in 2012, expanded the traditional duty of competence beyond legal knowledge to encompass technological proficiency. The Rule requires lawyers to understand the "benefits and risks associated with relevant technology" in their practice areas.

The existing framework appears comprehensive. Comment 8 already addresses core technological competencies, including e-discovery, cybersecurity, and client communication systems. Under Rule 1.1 (Comment 5), legal professionals must evaluate whether their technological skills meet "the standards of competent practitioners" without requiring additional regulatory layers.

However, implementation challenges persist. Many attorneys struggle with the vague standard of "relevant technology". The rule's elasticity means that competence requirements continuously evolve in response to technological advancements. Some jurisdictions, like Puerto Rico (see PR’s Supreme Court’s Order ER-2025-02 approving adoption of its full set of Rules of Professional Conduct, have created dedicated technology competence rules (Rule 1.19) to provide clearer guidance.

The verdict: redundancy without added value. Rather than creating overlapping rules, the legal profession should focus on robust implementation of existing Comment 8 requirements. Enhanced continuing legal education mandates, clearer interpretive guidance, and practical competency frameworks would better serve practitioners than additional regulatory complexity.

Technology competence is essential, but regulatory efficiency should guide our approach. 🚀

Tip of the Day! 💡 20 Affordable Gifts (10 tech and 10 non-tech) for Tech-Savvy Lawyers: Top Picks Under $50 for 2024 💼💻🎁

Time to find holiday gifts 🎁 that won’t break the bank for your favorite tech-savvy lawyer! 💻✨

As we approach the holiday season 🎄🎁, finding the perfect gift for the tech-savvy lawyer in your life can be a challenge 🤔. To help you navigate this task, I’ve compiled a list of top ten tech gifts 💻🔧 and ten non-tech gifts 📚☕ under $50 that are sure to delight any legal professional with a penchant for technology 👨‍⚖️👩‍⚖️. Whether it's for your boss 👔, colleague 🤝, or significant other 💑, these selections are inspired by the latest trends and discussions from The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page blog and podcasts 🎙️ throughout 2024 📅.

Top Ten Tech Gifts Under $50 🎁💻

1. Linq Digital Business Cards 📇

These innovative digital business cards are a game-changer for networking.* With a simple tap, lawyers can share their contact information, social media profiles, and even their latest podcast episode. Perfect for conferences and client meetings.

https://buy.linqapp.com/collections/cards

2. MacSparky Monthly Subscription Gift Card 🎓

Previous podcast guest david sparks popular blog is a great resource for the tech-savvy lawyer who wants to learn more about apple devices! 👩🏻‍💻

A gift card for a month's subscription to MacSparky offers access to valuable productivity tips and tech that can help any legal professional using the Mac platform.* This resource can help lawyers streamline their workflow and stay updated on the latest tech trends in the legal industry.

https://www.macsparky.com/join/

3. Anker 633 Magnetic Battery, 10,000 mAh Foldable Wireless Portable Charger, 20W USB-C Power Delivery Power Bank with Stand, Magsafe-Compatible for iPhone 16/15/14/13/12 Series 🔋

This portable charger ensures your lawyer's devices stay powered up during long days in court, on the road in or client meetings.* Its slim design fits easily in a briefcase or pocket, providing peace of mind for those crucial moments when a dead cell phone battery could be disastrous.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃

4. Logitech Pebble M350 Wireless Mouse 🐭 🖱️

A sleek, silent mouse that's perfect for working in quiet environments like libraries or shared office spaces. Its compact design and long battery life make it ideal for lawyers who frequently work on-the-go or in various locations.

https://www.logitech.com/en-us/products/mice/pebble-2-m350s-wireless-mouse.html

5. Blue Light Blocking Glasses 👓

Help protect your lawyer's eyes during long hours of screen time with these stylish blue light blocking glasses. These can reduce eye strain and potentially improve sleep quality, essential for lawyers who often work late nights reviewing documents.

https://www.diffeyewear.com/collections/blue-light-blocking-glasses

6. Bluetooth Trackers 🔍

Show your tech-savvy colleague a little love 🎁 with a thoughtful gift that won’t break your budget! 💻

Never let your lawyer misplace their keys or bag again with these handy Bluetooth trackers:

- Apple AirTag*: Perfect for iOS users, offering seamless integration with Apple devices.

https://www.apple.com/airtag/

- Tile Mate: A versatile option compatible with both iOS and Android devices.

https://www.thetileapp.com/en-us/store/tiles/mate

7. Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) 🔊

This smart speaker can help manage schedules, set reminders, and even brief on the latest legal news. It's a versatile assistant for lawyers, helping them stay organized and informed hands-free. (Warning:  Check terms of service and make sure Amazon is not eavesdropping on privileged/private communication! Personally, I’d go for the Apple Air Pod* (but its $99 and didn’t meet the criteria of this list).

https://www.amazon.com/Echo-Dot/dp/B07XJ8C8F5

8. Anker PowerWave Pad Qi-Certified Wireless Charger ⚡

A fast, efficient wireless charging pad for smartphones and other Qi-enabled devices. Universally friendly to most Qi-enabled smartphones (check with the manufacture). This charger eliminates cable clutter on a lawyer's desk and ensures their devices are always ready to go.

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerWave-Qi-Certified-Compatible-Fast-Charging/dp/B07DBX67NC

9. Jabra soundcore V30i 🎧

These affordable earbuds offer great sound quality for podcast listening and clear audio for calls. Perfect for lawyers who need to take confidential calls on-the-go or want to catch up on legal podcasts during their commute. 🤗

https://www.soundcore.com/products/v30i-a3873-open-ear-earbuds?ref=open-ear-headphones

10. Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook 📓

This eco-friendly notebook allows lawyers to digitize their handwritten notes easily. It's perfect for those who prefer handwriting but need the convenience of digital storage and organization.

https://getrocketbook.com/products/rocketbook-core

Top Ten Non-Tech Gifts Under $50 🎁

1. Staufs Coffee Sampler ☕️

My favorite regional coffee shop/brewer that was recently rated #3 in a national pole on regional coffee shops!

A selection of rich, flavorful blends from this regional coffee brewery to fuel long work hours.* This is my personal favorite! I’ve been a customer of theirs for years.  The last place I moved to while living in Columbus, OH was in part because it was four to five blocks away from their main store in Grandview, OH. 🤗
Note free shipping for orders over $50!

https://www.staufs.com/shop-all-coffee

2. "The Tech Contracts Handbook" by David W. Tollen 📚

This comprehensive guide to technology contracts is a valuable resource for any tech-savvy lawyer.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃

3. Personalized Desk Nameplate 🏷️

Add a touch of professionalism to your lawyer's workspace with a custom nameplate.

https://www.etsy.com/search?q=lawyer+Personalized+Desk+Nameplate&is_personalizable=true

4. Lawyer-Themed Socks 🧦

Inject some fun into your lawyer's wardrobe with these quirky, profession-specific socks.

https://shop.nypl.org/products/lawyer-socks

5. "The Anxious Lawyer" by Jeena Cho and Karen Gifford 🧘‍♀️

A book offering an eight-week program on meditation and mindfulness, created by lawyers for lawyers.

https://jeenacho.com/the-anxious-lawyer-book/

6. Legal-Themed Art Print 🖼️

Stand out at your holiday party 🎉 by giving a gift that gets you noticed—thoughtful, tech-savvy, and memorable! 🎁✨

Decorate your lawyer's office with a tasteful print featuring legal motifs or famous courthouses.

https://www.fulcrumgallery.com/c37592/law-office-art.htm

7. Money Clip w Air Tag Holder 💵 🏷️

This practical gift combines a stylish money clip with an AirTag holder, ensuring your lawyer's wallet is always traceable and organized. These money clips offers a blend of technology and functionality at an affordable price.*

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃

8. Gavel-Shaped Whiskey Decanter Set 🥃

A unique and conversation-starting gift for the lawyer who enjoys a good drink after a long day.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃 

9. Moleskine Precious and Ethical Notebook 📔

A high-quality notebook for jotting down ideas, whether in the courtroom or during podcast brainstorming sessions.

https://www.moleskine.com/en-us/gift-guide/best-gifts-under-50/precious-ethical-notebook-petroleum-8056598859430.html

10. Lawyer-Themed Coffee Mug ⚖️

A witty mug to brighten up their morning coffee routine.

Click on this link to go to Amazon as the link itself is too long! 🙃 

A Personal Note on Gift-Giving 🎁💭

During this season of gathering with friends, colleagues, and family, show your appreciation with a thoughtful gift—perfect for the tech-savvy lawyer who makes every day brighter. 🎁

Whether you opt for a cutting-edge gadget 🔧 or a classic non-tech item 📚, each gift on our list is designed to enhance productivity 📈, foster well-being 🧘‍♀️, or simply bring a smile 😊 to your favorite legal eagle 🦅⚖️. Remember, it's not just about the gift itself, but the thought behind it 💭❤️. By choosing one of these items, you're showing that you understand and appreciate the unique challenges and interests of the modern, tech-savvy lawyer 💼💻.

Here's to making the season brighter 🌟 for the legal professionals in your life, one thoughtful gift at a time! Happy gifting! 🎉🎊

Have a Happy Holiday Season!

❄️❅☃️❆❄️

Have a Happy Holiday Season! ❄️❅☃️❆❄️