In recent months, we have witnessed the proliferation of the Coronavirus and technological advances that have undeniably accelerated the adoption of new technologies in the legal profession.
Automated petitions, summonses sent via WhatsApp, and the emergence of various software programs and applications were some examples of recent events that certainly impacted the entire sector and pointed the way to the future.
Ultimately, new technologies in law are not just an evolution of the modern legal world, they are also the only way forward . And we will certainly discuss much more about new technologies here.
How are new technologies in the legal profession affecting the work and careers of lawyers?
Initially, legal software offers lawyers greater productivity, facilitates the handling of tasks, and saves time.
Generally, self-employed lawyers are familiar with platforms such as JUSBRASIL , ASTREA, and SAJ ADV , which are some of the most cost-effective tools available.
The first, JUSBRASIL, has over 900 lawyers using its products, and according to the startup, the platform combines Law and Technology to empower citizens through information in this legal area.
ASTREA and SAJ ADV are direct competitors in the legal software market and, according to their manufacturers, are responsible for tools such as:
- Legal management;
- Procedural update;
- Monitoring publications;
- Control of procedural deadlines;
- Artificial intelligence;
- Automatic document filling and;
- Customer Area.
However, there is a nascent world in this sector . Automated processes, such as drafting contracts and petitions, have also attracted the attention of several law firms and large companies of various sizes.
Therefore, some startups stand out for creating intelligent systems based on machine learning algorithms that can extract information from documents, merge litigation data, and create archives of court decisions.
In this way, tasks based on lawyer experience (such as risk assessment in litigation) will find electronic tools to offer this evaluation. Including statistical percentages, such as "83% chance of success in a given case".
Beyond the obvious strategic advantages brought by new technologies in the legal field—after all, a single tool can manage an entire firm from the palm of your hand in just seconds.
New technologies in public advocacy
Furthermore, there is also the use of new technologies in public advocacy, such as the Sapiens system, created by lawyers from the Attorney General's Office, which acts as a virtual assistant to draft petitions in case of repeated requests.
Primarily, the system is based on algorithms that can learn from a large amount of data, considering the petitions filed by attorneys from the Attorney General's Office in recent years.
The text editing program is able to determine if there is a similar legal essay in the AGU (Attorney General's Office) based on typed words, and the system therefore recommends the insertion of legal arguments, doctrinal references, and related case law.
The consequence of this? Increasing the chances of success in the specific case and reducing errors, that is, efficiency in public advocacy with the use of new legal technologies.
What should lawyers do to adapt to new technologies in the legal profession?
In summary, it is clear that the adaptation of legal professionals to the new environment is fundamental for the development of new practices related to increasing productivity, efficiency, and service delivery to their clients.
Certainly, the lawyers who will stand out in the future will be those with the greatest market vision, adaptability, strategic wisdom, curiosity, and courage to learn.
Lawyer Luiz Henrique Amaral, also known as Lawyer of the Year 2020, shared his opinion on new technologies in the legal profession in an interview on the subject:
" Legal automation and artificial intelligence platforms are useful and promising for routine and repetitive services. These systems are fundamental tools in today's world and greatly assist professional work."
But I believe that the lawyer's legal strategy and special dedication will continue to be crucial to their success.
Similarly, despite the increase in new technologies in the legal profession, the essential elements in a lawyer's career will always remain dedication, constant updating, and knowledge.
Also in the interview, the honored lawyer of the year pointed out three premises for recognition in the legal profession:
"First, a lot of professional curiosity. This led me to study a lot and to continuously seek knowledge. Improving knowledge is fundamental to professional growth."
Secondly, a lot of persistence. Define your goals and follow your path. Don't let setbacks discourage you and don't let anyone divert you from the path you believe in.
Third, dedication to achieving your clients' objectives. A client who perceives your involvement and dedication to their problems becomes more than loyal; they become a promoter of your name in the market.
In conclusion, the evolution of new technologies in law isn't going to stop there (nor will it stop). And neither can your career.
Therefore, you can always count on IDP Online; we'll bring you all the latest news on new technologies in law and updates in the legal field. And to get started: check out our free mini-courses here on our website!