Learning Tech -- Deliberate Practice and Beneifts of Proficiency

Last week, on the ABA Journal website, two "Legal Rebels," Darth Vaughn and Casey Flaherty of Procertas (famous for developing the Legal Tech Assessment), co-wrote a column about the necessity of learning how to use technology in the practice of law. "Sorry," they say, "technology isn't easy -- you take the time to learn, or you lose."

No advanced skills are required to conduct a basic Google search or to compose a simple document in Microsoft Word, but for attorneys and other legal professionals, sophisticated tech abilities are a must. As Vaughn and Flaherty say, "We actually need to work at becoming proficient with the standard technology tools of our trade."

Developing technological competency as a lawyer is mandated by the Model Rules of Professional Conduct, and being aware of the limitations and potential risks of technology's applications is just as critical. The adage about 10,000 hours of deliberate practice may not apply, but familiarity with standard issue software and expert-level skill in managing email, manipulating spreadsheets, and conducting advanced legal research is increasingly essential.

Immigration Law Resource Month

In October, we at the Harris County Law Library are continuing to highlight our collection of immigration law resources. Throughout the month, we will feature materials, in the library an online, to assist you in conducting research and learning about immigration law in the United States.

Several new immigration law resources are now on our shelves, including the 15th edition of Kurzban's Immigration Law Sourcebook, and the 17th edition of U.S. Immigration Made Easy, published by Nolo Press. On Westlaw, you can access the latest immigration news and analysis, as well as immigration law treatises, and official immigration forms. Lexis provides additional access to popular immigration titles, including Benders Immigration Law Bulletin and Benders Immigration Case Reporter. Both Westlaw and Lexis can be accessed on our computers in the Law Library.

These titles are just a few of the immigration law items in our collection. Additional resources will be featured throughout the month in the Law Library and on our blog.

Latest & Greatest - Social Media and Local Governments: Navigating the New Public Square

By Patricia E. Salkin & Julie A. Tappendorf

Published by the American Bar Association. Section of State and Local Government Law

KF 5300 .S63 2013

With more widespread use of social media in the workplace, it is imperative that attorneys in both the public and private sectors understand the opportunities it offers in the form of marketing and the dissemination of information and the challenges it presents in terms of ensuring the reliability of the information provided and of maintaining confidentiality where required.  Written for attorneys who work in the public sector, Social Media and Local Governments: Navigating the New Public Square explains the benefits and pitfalls that this ubiquitous technology can present. From its practical uses in the government context to legal questions, the authors cover all aspects of social media to allow government attorneys make informed decisions regarding the implementation of social media policies for its employees and the establishment and maintenance of its own online presence. This book is a must-read for any government lawyer exploring the use of social media for its own purposes.

SRLN: Self-Represented Litigation Network

The Self-Represented Litigation Network is a national organization formed under the leadership of Richard Zorza, a former public defender, legal services attorney, and justice technology designer. He is also an avid blogger and a key player in the Access to Justice movement. Through SRLN, Mr. Zorza has created a rich network of resources, especially for those concerned with closing the justice gap. Over the last decade, the SRLN has made great strides in developing innovations, including strategic and empowering uses of technology, to improve the experience of self-represented litigants as they navigate the justice system. 

Membership in SRLN is free, and signing up is easy. As a benefit of joining, members can register for email newsletters and enroll in a number of working groups, including the Forms & Technology group. If you are a legal system professional and would like to get involved, SRLN offers several options. Take a look at what SRLN can do for you and what you can do to improve the experience of pro se litigants.

Happy 101st, Harris County Law Library!

Today, the Harris County Law Library celebrates the 101st anniversary of its grand opening on October 1, 1915. Although plenty has changed over the last century, one thing hasn't - the Law Library is still committed to providing patrons with access to relevant, current, accurate, and practical legal information. With free access to legal research databases, including Westlaw, Lexis Advance, Texas State Bar Practice Manuals, and more, the Law Library continues its commitment as a 21st century institution. Visit our downtown Houston location to learn more about all we have to offer.

You can also discover more about the Law Library's Century of Service through our digital exhibit. Last year, we marked the milestone with a Centennial Celebration featuring keynote speaker Chief Justice Nathan Hecht of the Supreme Court of Texas. Videos of the speakers and information about our historic institution are available on our website.