As we all know, modern technology can create powerful leverage in any business. Unfortunately, it's complex and rapidly changing, which creates big challenges—especially for lawyers. Most lawyers lack the instincts to know what to focus on and prioritize, so they often make big mistakes when using technology. Fortunately, the five biggest mistakes can be avoided if you know what they are and how to avoid them. Listen and find out how. In this episode, you will hear: Avoiding lawyer technology adoption mistakesAvoiding technology mistakes in lawLeveraging technology for maximum successOutsourcing receptionist services with Smith AICost-effective tech consultation for lawyers Resources from this Episode - Jared Correia (Red Cave Legal) for advice on practice management software: https://redcavelegal.com/about/  https://redcavelegal.com/  - Otter.ai (best meeting transcription tool using AI) - https://otter.ai/referrals/7V69G9OV  - My Top Tech Tools Guide for Lawyers - https://frictionless-lawyering.craft.me/Top-Tech-Tools  - Check out my Inner Circle (for useful discussions about tech tools recommended for lawyers) - https://ernietheattorney.net/inner-circle-community/  - Check out my Law Practice Assessment if you want specific recommendations for improving based on the technology you're using in your practice - https://law-practice-assessment.scoreapp.com/p/podcast General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses.Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for LawyersSubscribe to: The 80/20 PrincipleCheck out my Law Firm Systems IntensiveJoin: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

AI Chatbots powered by GPT-4 technology are improving rapidly so the opportunities are expanding for lawyers who want to leverage this to improve aspects of their practices. But which GPT4 chatbots are best? And what are the best opportunities for using them in your practice? That's what we'll cover in this episode. In this episode, you will hear: The emergence of generative AI chatbots and their implications for the legal industryMaximizing the features of advanced AI writing modelsThe use of RAG and proprietary data to mitigate AI “hallucinations” Strategic use of AI for ideation and Grammarly for writingMore ways to think about implementing AI effectively Resources from this Episode Ethan Mollick's article: Which Al should I use? Superpowers and the State of PlayEthan Mollick's upcoming book: Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AIEthan Mollick's Substack: One Useful ThingLink to Bloomberg podcast episode: Why Are Lawyers Still Making Bad Al Mistakes?Grammarly (tech tool recommendation)Check out my Inner Circle (to participate in ongoing discussions about tech tools I discuss and recommend)Check out this Law-Tech Assessment if you want my recommendations for improving your practice with technology. General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for LawyersSubscribe to: The 80/20 PrincipleCheck out my Law Firm Systems IntensiveJoin: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

LinkedIn is a goldmine for professional referrals. Think of it as a 24-hour networking event that runs 365 days a year.  You can "attend" asynchronously and easily generate new referrals without spending a lot of time "working the room.” In this episode, you will hear: 24/7 receptionist and chatbot servicesUnlocking LinkedIn's potentialCrafting effective taglines for lawyersOptimizing LinkedIn profile for SEOLeveraging linkedin for networking success  Resources from this Episode My LinkedIn pageMy LinkedIn post about "Most lawyers won't like this"Justin Welsh's LinkedIn pageJustin Welsh's LinkedIn course ($150 or $97)Justin Welsh's free post about LinkedIn strategyCanva image-creating tool (to make LinkedIn banner)Check out my Inner Circle (to participate in ongoing discussions about marketing, tech tools, and moreCheck out my short Law-Tech Assessment for specific recommendations for improving based on the technology you're using in your practice General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Podcasts are valuable troves of knowledge. And yet it's notoriously challenging to capture insights and take notes on things you want to remember. But now there's a magic solution that you'll definitely appreciate knowing about that you'll learn all about in this episode. In this episode, you will hear: Leveraging podcasts for professional growthEssential features for podcast listeningFeatures and benefits of Snipd appLeveraging 80/20 Principle for success Resources from this Episode Get a 30-day free trial of Snipd:The Tim Ferriss Show (podcast)Cal Newport's Deep Questions (e.g., Episode 287 on Minimalist Notes) Loom video demonstration of Snipd I did for folks in my Inner CircleCheck out my Inner Circle (to participate in ongoing discussions about tech tools I discuss and recommend)Readwise (will be discussed in an upcoming episode)Check out this Law-Tech Assessment if you want specific recommendations for improving based on the technology you're using in your practice  General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

In this episode, you'll learn how a Virginia lawyer found the best business coach to help his firm implement principles from the popular book “Traction” (by Gino Wickman). Listen as Kellam Parks shares the process he used to research and vet candidates, and why he says the decision to hire a coach was "transformative." He also explains exactly why the principles in Traction are so helpful in growing a modern law practice. In this episode, you will hear: The benefits of applying the business book "Traction" to law practicesSome challenges traditional law firms faceUnderstanding the concept of Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)The challenges and benefits of coaching for solo lawyersImplementing EOS and finding the right coachThe importance of generosity as a core value Resources from this Episode - Stephanie Everett (the coach Kellam hired) - Lawyerist Labs (group coaching program) - Melissa Shanahan (Velocity Work) - Trillion Dollar Coach: The Leadership Handbook of Silicon Valley’s Bill Campbell (business coach to Steve Jobs and Eric Schmidt) - Charlie Munger's Psychology of Human Misjudgment - The Moment, podcast by Brian Koppleman (creator of Showtime's Billions) - Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business, by Gino Wickman - Fireproof: A Five-Step Model to Take Your Law Firm from Unpredictable to Wildly Profitable, by Michael Morse - The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea, by Bob Burg General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Hackers repeatedly use the same common ploys to fool most people most easily. Avoid becoming a victim by learning about these ploys and by using a tech tool that too many people do not know about (or use if they do know). In this episode, you'll learn about six excellent recommendations the AARP believes can protect people online. And learn more about the one that's most beneficial for everyone who uses the Internet via computer, tablet device, or smartphone. In this episode, you will hear: Technology in efficient law practices The importance of automated scheduling The benefits of implementing a consultation fee Using the 80/20 principle to leverage your practice Resources from this Episode AARP article: What I Learned After Hackers Attacked Me and Stole $4,000 AARP Fraud Watch Network1Password (password manager Ernie recommends) General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for LawyersSubscribe to: The 80/20 PrincipleCheck out my Law Firm Systems IntensiveJoin: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

Traditional ways of scheduling appointments have too much friction, so lawyers should now adopt automated scheduling technology like that offered by Calendly. When you use this type of tool, you'll be able to do more deep work without being bogged down with scheduling appointments or getting interrupted during peak work time. In this episode, you'll learn exactly why automated scheduling will help you save time and avoid frustration. And you'll learn how to optimize it for your practice. In this episode, you will hear: Embracing tech for law practice efficiency: using Loom and CalendlyValuing time with pre-consultation fees and streamlined schedulingIntegrations boosting productivity: Calendly with Zoom/ConvertKitAI's future role in enhancing automated schedulingNext episode teaser: Cybersecurity in tech-empowered law practices Resources from this Episode Calendly (click here to sign up for the free service)Click here to book a free 15-minute call with me (and see how I use Calendly)Check out my recently updated guide: Top Tech Tools for Lawyers. General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for LawyersSubscribe to: The 80/20 PrincipleCheck out my Law Firm Systems IntensiveJoin: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to My Sponsor Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

The year 2024 is the year of Ninja Lawyering for solo and small firm lawyers who want frictionless efficiency, financial freedom, and flexibility to work less and enjoy life more. The key is leveraging technology strategically by focusing on a few key tools, the first of which we'll discuss in this episode. If you start using this tool, your practice will start to transform itself in mind-boggling ways. In this episode, you will hear: Introduction to Ninja Lawyering: Strategies for solo and small law firm efficiency using technology and the 80/20 principle.Exploration of 12 transformative tools for legal practice: Loom, ConvertKit, ChatGPT, and others.Deep dive into Loom for effective asynchronous video communication to reduce meetings and misunderstandings.Leveraging the 80/20 principle for maximizing outcomes with minimal resource investment in legal practices.Tips for adopting technology strategically: using free trials, focusing on one tool at a time, and seeking personalized guidance.Recommendations for outsourcing phone answering services and using private attorney networks for referrals.The importance of actively using the tools discussed for genuine improvement in legal practice efficiency. Resources from this Episode My List of 12 Top Tech ToolsLoom video tool - start with the free trialMy Loom video explaining the transcript feature My smartphone recording of a Loom video while walking General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

In Part 2 of our discussion of "Digital Nomadism," Megan Hargroder shares more insights on the art of living and working from anywhere. She highlights the use of platforms like Trusted House Sitters as an alternative to using AirBnb. And we also discuss safety tips while traveling abroad. Finally, we cover money management strategies, which are critical as well. Whether you're considering a full-blown leap into digital nomadism or just looking for tips on how to be more effective doing remote work, this episode offers a wealth of useful recommendations and practical advice. In this episode, you will hear: Strategies for securing free accommodations, maintaining fitness, managing finances and ensuring safety while on the move. Insights into co-working spaces, fostering relationships, and overcoming language barriers with tools like Google Translate. Emphasizing the importance of language learning and understanding cultural etiquette while traveling. Addressing perceptions of Americans as poor travelers and sharing personal experiences with petty crime in Europe. Resources from this Episode Part 1 of Digital Nomadism: https://ernietheattorney.net/portfolio/lfa265/ Trusted House Sitters - A platform for finding house-sitting opportunities, often including pet care, as an alternative to Airbnb and options that require you to pay for lodging. https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/  Google Translate - Used to overcome language barriers while traveling. https://translate.google.com/ WeWork All Access Membership https://www.wework.com/solutions/wework-all-access Megan discussed using WeWork across Europe as a consistent and flexible workspace. ClassPass - A service for finding and booking fitness classes while traveling, allowing users to maintain their fitness routine. https://classpass.com/ VPN (Virtual Private Network) - Recommended for secure internet use, especially when working from coffee shops or other public spaces. https://www.expressvpn.com/ Google Form to Apply for Digital Nomadism Workshop: https://forms.gle/X7PLgKYDBEoViKk66 General Resources Click for a list of the Best Tech Tools for Lawyers Subscribe to: The 80/20 Principle Check out my Law Firm Systems Intensive Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners) Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard Koch Get my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

In this episode, we delve into a detailed conversation with Rio Peterson from Alps Insurance. We explore the intricacies of malpractice insurance and discuss how solo and small law firms can protect themselves not just against malpractice, but also cyber attacks and employment claims. We also delve into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in law practice, shedding light on how it can help cut costs, increase efficiency, and enhance client services. Rio, who was previously with Clio, brings a wealth of knowledge about insurance in the legal field. The duo break down the complexities of malpractice insurance and shed light on the significance of cyber security in today's digital age. They also discuss the potential of artificial intelligence in streamlining legal services and improving efficiency. Tune in to this engaging and enlightening episode to understand the benefits of using technology, the importance of insurance coverage and the potential of AI in transforming the legal industry. In this episode, you will hear: Changing Company Names for Rhyme Impact Professional Liability and Cyber Response  The Benefits of Specializing in Law Using Legal Tools and Mitigating Risks AI for Content Repurposing and Marketing AI & Language Proficiency in the Philippines AI in Legal Practice Rio Peterson Resources Alps’ Website: [https://www.alpsinsurance.com](https://www.alpsinsurance.com) Alps’ Blog: [https://www.alpsinsurance.com/blog](https://www.alpsinsurance.com/blog) Resources: [https://www.alpsinsurance.com/resources/risk-management](https://www.alpsinsurance.com/resources/risk-management) Clio 2023 Trends Report: [https://www.clio.com/resources/legal-trends/](https://www.clio.com/resources/legal-trends/) Google Analytics: [https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/](https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/) Hubspot: [https://www.hubspot.com](https://www.hubspot.com) General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

In the latest episode, attorney Dorna Moini explains how her product, Gavel, enables full intake and workflow automation. She also explains how lawyers can document their expertise and turn that into revenue-generating products. In this episode, you will hear about: The importance of automating repetitive tasks, which begins with recording and analyzing repeatable tasks.How innovative document automation has revolutionized traditional legal services.The concept of productizing legal services and how doing this enhances customer experiences.How to use integrations for productizing legal services.The role of artificial intelligence in workflow development, and the importance of quick adaptation in automation projects. Resources from this Episode Link to book a free 30-minute call with Gavel Book a free demo of GavelLink to Gavel website Gavel Learning Center (on the website) YouTube videos with demos of GavelTim Ferriss podcast episode with Sam Corcos (re: use of Loom) Top 12 Document Automation Software Options General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Thanks to Our Sponsor   Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai you’re actually hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.   If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.   Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans including add-ons (up to $1000).   And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.   EPISODE CREDITS:   If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.   He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.

This episode features an interview with a lawyer who went from helping build a multimillion-dollar firm to practicing law from coffee shops in Europe. Sheila Wilkinson helped build a highly successful law firm from scratch even before she went to law school. Crazy but true. And after law school, she created her own successful practice, which she still runs, often from coffee shops in the country of Brussels. Another focus for Sheila is providing what she calls "Socratic coaching" for lawyers. Specifically, those who feel frustrated in their practices. Sheila's message is: Law practice doesn't have to be unfulfilling and frustrating. You can transform your life, your practice, and your state of mind. Listen, and find out how to make major improvements to your law practice. In this episode, you will hear: The transformational journey of Sheila, who transitioned from building a million-dollar law firm to practicing law from various coffee shops in Europe.How Sheila Wilkinson leverages technology, practices Socratic Coaching for Lawyers, and benefits from digital nomadism.Sheila's approach to overcoming personal and professional hurdles by emphasizing clarity, confidence, and understanding one's mental processes.The significance of emotional decision-making and proper risk assessment in law practice.A deep dive into social conditioning and its impact on decision-making abilities. Resources from this Episode - Casemap software (by Lexis) - Richard Feynman blog post on hypnosis - Thinking Fast & Slow Book, Daniel Kahneman - Chaos Kings book - Quitting, by Annie Duke - Fooled by Randomness, by Nassim Taleb - Sheila's website - Sheila's podcast "What Would Sheila Say?" - Book a free call with Sheila - Connect with her on Instagram and LinkedIn - Sheila's Other Free, Fun Stuff General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.   Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys.   Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

This episode is a deep dive into the law practice of solo attorney Brandon Siegal, a seasoned Canadian tax specialist who is comfortable using technology but finds delegation more challenging. The discussion was informed by answers he provided in taking my comprehensive Law Practice Assessment. We talked about software tools he uses, such as Clio, RingCentral, Microsoft Bookings, Email efficiency tools, ChatGPT, and Zapier. And by the way, he doesn't necessarily love everything he's using, and you'll find out why. So listen and gain insights that will help you improve your practice as well. In this episode, you will hear: Brandon’s Years of Practice and Solo TransitionDependency on Sanebox for Email ManagementText Expansion for Efficient Chat ConversationsCoding and Automation Tools for Efficiency Resources from this Episode: - Clio - Microsoft Bookings - Slack - Trello - Evernote - Microsoft One Note - Zapier - ChatGPT - Claude.ai - Make.com (formerly Integrate) - Faster Suite - Grammarly - WordRake - BriefCatch - TextBlaze - Adobe Acrobat - Clearbrief.ai - Dragon Dictation - AudioPen - - TextExpander - Sanebox - Obsidian - Markdown - prior episode with Mike Schmitz on Obsidian - Otter.ai - SweetProcess - ScribeHow - If This Then That (IFTTT) - Fiverr - Upwork - Instapaper - Video Speed (Chrome/Edge plugin) - Chrometa - FasterTime - ManicTime - Quickbooks - Never Split The Difference, book by Chris Voxx - YouTube interview with Yuval Noah Harari - Ross Guberman - Bryan Garner - My Inner Circle General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

Digital note-taking for lawyers is no longer just about transcribing ideas—it's about weaving them together. Enter the world of "Personal Knowledge Management" (PKM), a realm where Evernote once reigned supreme but now faces more powerful contenders.  Obsidian is the best note-taking app for lawyers who want a powerful, user-friendly tool that also happens to be completely free. With its interconnected system of notes, it offers unparalleled speed and efficiency. Want to learn more? Tune in as PKM specialist Mike Schmitz shares his insights.  Listen to the episode and check Mike's top resource links. In this episode, you will hear: Importance of digital note-taking and how it can revolutionize the way individuals capture and leverage ideas.Introduction to Obsidian, a digital note-taking tool, and how to use its features effectively.Discussion on Personal Knowledge Management (PKM) and how being selective with the information we consume can fuel creativity.The advantages of using Obsidian for note-taking, including its seamless integration with markdown language and various plugins that extend its functionality.Overview of Obsidian 101 and Obsidian University – courses designed to help users get the most out of the tool. Resources from this Episode Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)Craft: A note-taking app mentioned alongside Obsidian as part of the PKM (Personal Knowledge Management) stack.Roam Research: Another app mentioned as part of the PKM stack, emphasizing the need for a PKM app to manage different apps' information.Notion: Mentioned in relation to PKM and note-taking, highlighting the various options available for managing information.Drafts: An Apple-based quick capture tool was mentioned in the conversation, and there was a question about how to move content from Drafts to Obsidian.Evernote: The OG of note-taking tools, although many people now want more effective alternatives.Mike’s PKM stack is: To-Doist for tasks, Notion for work projects, and Cron for calendaringObsidian University CohortMike’s Obsidian NewsletterObsidian 101Book an Obsidian Setup Call with MikeMike’s YouTube channelJobs to Be Done, a well-known article by Clayton Christensen Liminal Thinking: Create the Change You Want by Changing the Way You Think, a book by David GrayIf you want to improve your law practice, check out my Law Practice Assessment. (answer a few questions and then get specific recommendations for improvement in 5 key areas). General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys.   Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

This episode continues a discussion on how to get the most out of Microsoft 365 tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Whether you use a Mac or a PC, these tools help streamline the most common workflows in your law practice. I invited Ben Schorr to explain the ins and outs of 365 software. Ben works at Microsoft as a senior-level product manager for content, so he has major insight into how to get the most out of your Microsoft Office software. In this episode, Ben discusses the following: Exploring Microsoft 365's Mobile App Leveraging Office.com Quick Access Toolbar Email Management and Learning Resources Windows Speech Recognition and Dictation Options Show Notes If you want to level up your law practice, check out my Law Practice Assessment. (after you answer a few questions, you'll get specific recommendations for improvement in 5 key areas of your practice). Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.comLet them know we sent you.

This episode is about how to get the most out of Microsoft 365 tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Whether you use a Mac or a PC, these tools help streamline the most common workflows in your law practice. I invited Ben Schorr to explain the ins and outs of 365 software. Ben works at Microsoft as a senior-level product manager for content, so he has major insight into how to get the most out of your Microsoft Office software. In this episode, Ben discusses the following: Table of Contents & Document Navigation in WordFluency and Habits in Using ToolsExcel Tips and TricksPowerPoint's Speaker CoachUsing Flags and Drag-and-Drop in Outlook Show Notes If you want to level up your law practice, check out my Law Practice Assessment. (after you answer a few questions, you'll get specific recommendations for improvement in 5 key areas of your practice). Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Step into the extraordinary world of digital nomadism with my wanderlust-filled guest, Megan Hargroder. Megan, a seasoned digital nomad, has been living out of her suitcase and working from the picturesque locales of Europe for the past eight months. Join us for a riveting conversation that explores the exhilarating freedoms and intricate challenges that come hand-in-hand with her unique lifestyle. Navigating time zones, hiring international talent, managing remote work, and maintaining cyber security are just a few of the topics we delve into. We also touch upon the fascinating subject of managing a virtual team of assistants, specifically from the Philippines, and how to evolve a contractual role into a full-time position. You'll be riveted as Megan shares the secret to maintaining a secure online presence while globe-trotting and highlights the hidden benefits of a WeWork All-Access membership.  Ready to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle? Get an insight into Megan's tech arsenal as she reveals how she stays connected with the help of Airalo, a virtual SIM card app. Plus, learn about the magic of automation and outsourcing, and how these can free up your time for, well, more freedom! And as a cherry on top, we even touch upon the importance of a systematic onboarding process and learning from mistakes. So, buckle up for an episode that's brimming with insightful takeaways, hilarious anecdotes, and trailblazing ideas! In this episode, you will hear: Challenges of Working Remotely While TravelingUsing Airalo for Unlimited Data Abroad Exploring Options for Accessing Data AbroadImportance of Slack in CommunicationSupercharged CEOUsing Slack for Client Communication Resources from this Episode Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)Megan's company website (a digital marketing agency helping solo/small firm lawyers) ExpresssVPN (Virtual Private Network service, link to 30-day free trial)Airalo (app & services for using virtual SIM cards, aka eSIM) - use this code to get $3 off your first purchase: ERNEST3504World Clock app (for time zone management)FIO (browser tool for time zone management)Slack (communication tool for remote teams) Microsoft Teams (alternative communication tool for remote teams)Joey Vitale program that teaches outsourcing skillsLoom (video communication tool)VideoAsk (video communication tool)Google Suite (mentioned as a potential alternative to Slack or Microsoft Teams)WeWork (shared workspace provider) General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Let's journey into the fascinating world of law and technology with our extraordinary guest, Ben Alarie. He's not just a law professor, but also an entrepreneur and author who has put his expertise in an excitingly accessible format through his AI product, Ask Blue J. This ingenious tool simplifies tax law navigation, transforming complex databases into question-answering platforms. We also shed light on the concept of the 'legal singularity', a term coined by Ben himself in his new book, signifying the potential of AI to develop a more responsive and precise legal infrastructure. Our conversation takes an interesting turn as we dig into the predictive power of machine learning in judicial decisions. Imagine an AI tool that could anticipate a judge's ruling in ambiguous scenarios, sounds like a sci-fi movie, right? Well, not anymore. Ask Blue J, Ben's brainchild, is changing the game, boasting over 90% accuracy in certain areas. We also address a unique AI issue, the ‘hallucination problem’ - illustrating how AI can sometimes veer off course when it lacks sufficient information. Wrapping up our discussion, we touch upon the 80/20 principle, a guiding tenet that could be your key to success. It emphasizes getting the maximum return on investment with minimal effort. This enlightening conversation with Ben Alarie will not just keep you informed about the cutting-edge advancements in AI and machine learning in the legal field, but also inspire you to implement strategic principles for success in your professional journey. So, plug in those headphones and embark on this thought-provoking exploration of the legal industry's future. In this episode, you will hear: The concept of the 'legal singularity' and the potential of AI in creating a responsive and precise legal infrastructure.Machine learning's predictive power in judicial decisions and the accuracy of Ask Blue J in certain areas.The ‘hallucination problem’ in AI, where it can go off course due to lack of sufficient information.Use of AI in diagnosing and rectifying social problems and achieving universal legal literacy.Implications of AI and technology for the future of the legal profession, legal education, and democracy. Resources from this Episode Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free)BlueJ website: https://www.bluej.com  The Legal Singularity: How Artificial Intelligence Can Make Law Radically Better, book by Ben AlariePreet Bharara's podcast: Humanity, Security & AI, Oh My! with Ian Bremmer & Shuman Ghosemajumder) 21 Lessons for the 21st Century, by Yuval Noah Harari Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow, by Yuval Noah Harari General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

In this episode, we revisit a persistent favorite topic - Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). We understand there are many recurring issues that may concern you, but which ones are the most pressing? We are on a mission to resolve these sticking points. A common challenge for attorneys is determining the technology that could bring the most significant improvement to their practice. Given the unique needs of each attorney, the question is: How do you identify the ideal technology for your practice? Keep reading as we reveal a practical solution to this conundrum. In our Tech Assessment section, we'll evaluate how effectively you are employing crucial technologies in your practice, including the ever-important SOPs and GPT tools. In this episode, you will hear: Importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for civil litigators and how to create effective ones.Tips on overcoming challenges and resistance points when documenting SOPs.Introduction of a new tech assessment tool for enhancing attorney practices.Use of innovative technology like Generative Pre-training Transformer (GPT) in the legal space.How SOPs can help in streamlining repetitive workflows and transforming legal practices. Resources from this Episode Join: '80/20 Inner Circle' (valuable business insights for small firm owners)Read: The 80/20 Principle: The Secret of Achieving More with Less, by Richard KochGet my new email course: ChatGPT for Lawyers (it's free) General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

What if you could revolutionize your legal practice with technology? This provocative question led to an enlightening chat with legal tech consultant, Adriana Linares, who shared insights on how transitioning to cloud-based services and leveraging tools like TextExpander and ChatGPT can significantly enhance productivity and writing skills.  That's not all, folks. Join us as we share personal anecdotes about the transformative power of effective communication skills, honed through Toastmasters, and how this aids career progression. We also discuss the wonders of ChatGPT technology, which can help us create speeches that sound more natural and professional. But it doesn't stop there - we discuss utilizing ChatGPT for generating language for attorney forms or creating starting templates for your work.  We also talk about the paramount importance of password managers and TextExpander in maintaining flexibility and security in your computer setup. Picture being able to easily store emails, logins, and calendar appointments, and sharing passwords between people - all with maximum security. And let's not forget how TextExpander snippets can simplify communication and save time. So, are you ready to transform your legal practice with technology? Tune in, and let’s explore these game-changing tools together. In this episode, you will hear: Improving Legal Document Creation and EfficiencyEffective Communication With ToastmastersChat GPT for LawyersOther Uses of Chat GPT and AIPassword Managers and Text Expander Resources from this Episode Adriana's website - LawTech Partners: https://www.lawtechpartners.com/ TextExpander: https://textexpander.com/ OpenAi (ChatGPT): https://chat.openai.com/ Microsoft Co-Pilot: https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2023/03/16/introducing-microsoft-365-copilot-your-copilot-for-work/ 1Password: https://1password.com/ Roboform: https://www.roboform.com/ LastPass: https://www.lastpass.com/ Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/ Calendly: https://calendly.com/ Dreyer's English: An Utterly Correct Guide to Clarity and Style https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0812985710/ernieattorney-20  General Resources Learn to use technology to reduce friction & gain freedom with this resource: https://www.the8020lawyer.com/Focus on these essential tech tools for maximum traction in your practice.Take this short law practice assessment to identify your main strengths & weaknesses. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to Our Sponsors Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of. Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000). And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai. Overture Law Overture Law is the first private attorney network enabling them to refer matters to one another and ethically share in referral fees.  Membership is free if you're accepted. Apply for membership at Overture.law Once you're accepted, you'll start getting valuable referrals and earn fees for matters you refer out. A powerful win-win for U.S.-based solo and small firm attorneys. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.