The practice of law has changed dramatically over the last two centuries. Old tools of the trade—steno pools, fax machines, dusty libraries—have been replaced with countless electronic devices that allow lawyers to carry in their briefcases a virtual office, replete with comprehensive resources available at the touch of a button. From the cell phone to the Blackberry to the iPad, technology is propelling our profession into the future and has created a far different environment for lawyers of all generations.
Twenty-first century technology has opened the door to increased competition in a global marketplace, has led to a growth in outsourcing and is driving legal service providers to deliver quality at a more competitive price. And perhaps most significantly, it is also forcing us to re-think how we train lawyers and structure our business models.
