Even with vaccines rolling out, virtual advocacy and law firm operations will remain in place for some time. Learning to connect with the camera and command the screen—a different skill set from being in a room with your audience—will be the mark of the most successful attorneys in 2021. Even when in-person trial practice and corporate meetings resume, the virtual world can be more efficient and budget friendly—in some scenarios. According to a poll conducted by the Association of Legal Administrators of its members, 91% believe that recent changes in working practices, including more remote work, are permanent.

Attorneys who are doing this regularly advise there are multiple considerations when getting ready for virtual presentations. Take it from an attorney who has participated in several virtual arbitrations in Georgia, Seth Price, a shareholder at Chamberlain Hrdlicka. “Know that 90% is the same and will run smoothly, yet the 10% that’s different in this virtual setting is significant because it requires extensive planning that should be factored into your prep time,” says Price. “Some of your trusted practices in the physical courtroom may need to be rethought.”