As social distancing and shelter-in-place requirements continue across the globe, law firms must adapt quickly. Staying productive and responsive while working remotely is now essential, not optional.
Clients are reaching out with urgent questions. They’re asking about positive COVID-19 tests in the workplace, quarantine accommodations, and new regulations. Your law firm must be ready to respond—even if your entire team is working from home.
With the right remote resources for law firms, you can continue providing trusted legal guidance in this challenging time.
Key Considerations Before Going Remote
Transitioning to remote work isn’t as simple as grabbing a laptop and heading home. There are several key considerations to ensure your firm remains secure, efficient, and professional.
1. Home Internet Bandwidth
Remote work demands stable internet. Attorneys need a minimum of 1.5 Mbps upload/download speed to keep up with emails, document sharing, and video calls. Remember, others in your household may also be online.
2. A Professional Home Workspace
Video meetings are now a daily reality. Ensure your home workspace supports a professional appearance by checking:
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Lighting
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Background (use a plain wall or digital background)
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Webcam clarity
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Microphone quality
Don’t have a private office? Divider walls or quiet corners can work well in a pinch.
3. Reliable Collaboration Tools
Remote resources for law firms must include powerful collaboration tools. Microsoft Teams, part of Office 365, enables:
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Secure video conferencing
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Real-time document collaboration
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Team chats with file sharing
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Enterprise-grade security controls
Video meetings provide clients with a more personal connection—something that matters during uncertain times.
4. Secure File Storage
If your firm isn’t already paperless, now is the time. Storing client documents securely in the cloud is critical for remote operations.
Microsoft OneDrive, included with Office 365, allows attorneys to:
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Store legal documents in one secure location
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Share files with clients or team members
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Access files from any device, anywhere
This eliminates the need for physical paperwork and improves workflow.
How to Foster a Productive Remote Work Culture
Remote work can feel isolating. Balancing home life with full-time legal practice presents new challenges. These simple strategies will help your team stay productive and connected.
Keep Firm Values Front and Center
Now more than ever, reinforce your firm’s core values. Remind your team that you’re united—even if physically apart. If you don’t have defined values, consider developing them together.
Schedule Weekly Virtual Check-Ins
Host weekly virtual coffee breaks or lunch chats. These casual meetings keep morale high. Encourage attorneys to share something positive—personal or professional—from the past week.
Allow Time for Personal Connection
Remote work lacks hallway conversations. Encourage team members to take a few minutes each day to connect personally, whether through a quick call or chat message.
One Thing Is Certain: Clients Still Need Legal Support
It’s unclear how long social distancing rules will last. But one thing is certain: clients need legal help now more than ever.
By equipping your practice with the right remote resources for law firms, you’ll be prepared to guide clients through rapidly changing legal landscapes confidently and securely.
Need Help Getting Set To Work Remotely? Contact Vision Computer Solutions Now.
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