Modern technology is moving rapidly toward the cloud, and legal software is no exception. Since 2015, the rate at which law firms have adopted cloud technology has more than doubled. By 2017, the majority of law firms were using cloud technology, and more are adopting it every day – for good reasons.
Cloud Security for Law Firms
Cloud providers are security experts. Cloud computing companies like Amazon Web Services have extensive security measures in place. Amazon’s server infrastructure features three tiers of physical barriers inside and out. Measures include shatter-proof walls, video surveillance, pin numbers, and more. This doesn’t mean the cloud is never breached, but compare these security measures to those of any law firm you’ve been to. How many have shatterproof walls protecting their servers?
When storing you data in a cloud-based case management software, cloud security also depends on the software provider’s policies. Encryption and regular backups are two of the most common practices of reputable legal software companies. Before choosing a provider, ask them about their security policies.
For more information on cloud safety for law firms, read this article.
Software With Regular Backups
How much data are you comfortable losing? Two days’ worth? Two hours’ worth? Two minutes’ worth?
Law firms need to be prepared in the case of a data breach. Cloud-based legal software generally backs up more often than server solutions. CASEpeer, for example, backs up users’ data every five minutes. While it can be difficult to restore a local server backup in the case of a fire, flood, or other natural disaster, cloud solutions make getting up to speed after a natural disaster much easier.
Work From Anywhere With the Cloud
Cloud solutions allow attorneys and staff to work from anywhere on any device. This is a huge benefit for lawyers who aren’t always in the office, like trial attorneys.
Many cloud solutions have mobile apps available, enabling attorneys and staff to receive notifications, look at case files, and more, all from their mobile devices.
Frequent Software Updates
Today, technology is changing faster than ever. Even if your case management software is cutting-edge now, it doesn’t mean it will be in five years – or even five months! Look for a cloud solution with frequent, seamless updates at no extra cost to your firm. Updates are usually done automatically, with no down time for your attorneys and staff. Legal case management software like CASEpeer provides automatic updates to its clients at least every two weeks.
No Server Maintenance Costs
Having an in-house server in a law firm can be expensive. Besides the initial cost of the server itself, maintaining it requires a lot of work, and often a dedicated IT professional. Not to mention, servers also take up space in your law firm.
Cloud-based legal software does not require law firms to own or maintain a server – only computers and Internet access. This is especially helpful for firms who cannot yet afford all the maintenance of a server solution, or simply don’t want to pay for it.
Modern Legal Software in the Cloud
Most, if not all, of the newest legal software solutions are cloud-based. Modern practice management tools generally have several advantages over older softwares.
Modern solutions tend to have more intuitive interfaces, which make it easier for users to learn. Newer solutions also tend to have better training and support accessibility.
The time to use the cloud is now. Law firms who don’t embrace secure cloud-based tools may find themselves left behind. Improve efficiency, be more secure, and work from anywhere with case management software in the cloud.
CASEpeer is a cloud based case management solution designed for personal injury attorneys. From intake to settlement, our robust features help law firms become more proactive and powerful. Our goal is to help your law firm grow. For more practice management tips, visit our blog.