Is this the beginning of the end for signed documents?
International law firm Linklaters is giving clients the opportunity to use the latest technology to electronically sign legal documents. The firm says that the innovation, which uses third-party provider DocuSign’s technology, means that printing, signing and scanning of multiple documents will be replaced by a procedure which can be carried out on a computer, tablet or smartphone. It means a time-saving for clients and lawyers by removing the need for the physical presence of those required to sign. Linklaters says that the feedback from clients who have already used the service is positive in terms of convenience and speed. There is also an easier audit trail and increased security created by the solution.
Another international firm launches contract lawyer service
Addleshaw Goddard has announced the launch of its new contract lawyer offering AG Integrate. The international firm – headquartered in the UK but with offices including Singapore and Hong Kong and an associate office in Tokyo – will offer self-employed lawyers to work at clients’ offices for short periods and will also use their services to complement its own workforce.
Is your firm spending this much on keeping client data safe?
Law firms are typically spending 1.92 per cent of their gross annual income on security measures to protect client data. That’s according to a survey in the US by Chase Cost Management which shows that more than 21 per cent of law firms are boosting their in-house security skills. Bloomberg reports that the average amount spent per full-time employee for this year is U$8,440.
