Law firms are dependent on technoLegal IT Consultantslogy to keep things running smoothly. Securing confidential client data, improving work flow while minimizing downtime, implementing the best suited software solutions – all these things require a solid technology consultant who has a strong understanding of the legal industry.

So, how do you find someone that can consistently keep your firm’s computers running seamlessly or quickly fix them if something goes wrong?

We know there are many technology consultants out there, but not all are created equal. Understanding the challenges of finding the right one is key to hiring a person or company that can add value to your law firm. Consider these 5 things when hiring an IT consultant:

-Experience Working with Lawyers
You want a firm that understands the needs associated with the legal industry. Heightened ethics requirements, specific software systems, privacy and security of paramount importance. Make sure the firm you select has an existing base of legal clients.

-Specific Areas of Technology Expertise
The person who services your printers is not going to be able to best protect you against data breaches. Someone who helps you select the best document management software is not going to be able to create a good website. Remember, you can hire more than one technology consultant, and you probably should based on the kind of assistance you need.

-Vendor Neutral
In the area of practice management software, does the consultant recommend only TABS3 or do they represent Perfect Practice as well? IT consultants who represent more than one product in a category are less likely to steer you to a solution that’s not the best fit for you.

-Area of Website Targeted to Legal
Be sure to check out the website of the company you are considering (this may sound obvious). Make sure the site looks professional and is up-to-date. The website should also have a section dedicated to how law firms are serviced and the products they represent.

-Dedicated Service
Having an engineer assigned to your account (onsite or remotely) that knows your business, provides added insurance that your systems will be properly monitored and serviced.

We hope this will serve as a useful framework for selecting an IT consultant that will add value to your legal practice. To learn about the services BMT provides to the legal industry, visit our website: bmtcorp.com