Know Your Rights And Limitations When You Fly

The Transportation Security Administrations (TSA) mission is to protect [ the Nations transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce. The TSA, not the airlines, determines what can pass through the secured area of an airport.

So its great that the TSA allows photographers an extra bag of photographic equipment in addition to one (1) carry-on and one (1) personal item through the screening checkpoint. The additional bag must conform to your air carriers carry-on restrictions for size and weight. The guideline can be found here: http://www.tsa.gov/public/display?content=090005198006b11c

The catch is that your airline, not the TSA, has the right to disallow the third bag. While you can get it through security, you may be forced to check it at the gate. Since many photographers need two bags for photography equipment plus a briefcase for their laptops, you may not want to have to choose which bag is thrown below when the third bag is disallowed.

E-mail messages to Delta, Northwest, Alaska, United and American Airlines asking whether they allow the extra photography bag either were not returned or the responses quoted/referred to baggage guidelines from their websites that allow only two pieces of carry-on luggage. Even if any of the replies had been positive, the rules may be applied differently at the gate.

The safest plan is to go with two carry-on bags, at least for now.

Take my advice; get professional help.

PhotoAttorney

Copyright 2005 Carolyn E. Wright All Rights Reserved

— ABOUT THE AUTHOR —

Carolyn E. Wright, Esq., has a unique legal practice aimed squarely at the needs of photographers. A pro photographer herself, Carolyn has the credentials and the experience to protect photographers. Shes represented clients in multimillion dollar litigations, but also has the desire to help new photographers just starting their careers. Carolyn graduated from Emory University School of Law with a Juris Doctor, and from Tennessee Tech Univ. with a Masters of Business Administration degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in music.

She wrote the book on photography law. 88 Secrets to the Law for Photographers, by Carolyn and well-known professional photographer, Scott Bourne, is scheduled for fall 2005 release by Olympic Mountain School Press. Carolyn also is a columnist for PhotoFocus Magazine.

Carolyn specializes in wildlife photography and her legal website is http://www.photoattorney.com

More articles at article database

8 October

Joke’s On Us: Changing Perceptions Of The Legal Industry

The Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA) has decided to change their name to The American Association for Justice, to better suit what they do rather than who their members are. The name change is an attempt to help others see that a lawyers job is to fight for the people, and to change the perception of boastful lawyers who sit back and collect exorbitant trial fees.

A firm’s reputation is an extremely valuable asset for creating and building status and often times is worth more than actual profitability. If in fact a true image change is to occur for the ATLA or American Association for Justice, more than a name change is required. Improved organizational practices over client confidentiality as a PR branding strategy should be considered.

Trust in Branding

Branding trust for a legal organization involves careful deliberation about where the new brand will live, who the brand affects, the strengths and weakness of the new brand, and examining barriers and opportunities the new name and image may bring forth.

If consistency does not exist on all levels, no benefits will come from re-branding the ATLA or American Association for Justice.

Branding Confidence and Trust in Client Confidentiality

Many firms have vulnerabilities that can lead to potential data leakage via email breach, with no defense implementation in place. At any given time in a firm, lawyers aren’t the only one’s handling client information. Assistants, front desk workers, and paralegals at the office may have access to sensitive information like clients names, banking information, location of assets and social security numbers. If any of this information would escape the firm into opposing council’s hands, malicious thieves, or even to the press, a firm’s reputation would be jeopardized.

Showing a commitment to the prevention of email theft and misuse can do much to brighten the AAJ’s public perception. Within a legal office, lawyers can extend this image of trust by assuring their clients that their information remains in the protected walls of the practice.

Small and Large firms alike should consider implementing email anti-theft solutions and/or data encryption of sensitive email and documents. This will not only show the industries commitment to confidentiality but will also protect client and case information from being misused by co-workers, assistants, and other attorneys. It’s like putting a stamp of trust on the document itself, assuring the sender and recipients of email that the information is well protected.

Instead of looking for a written statement to put an end to their public humiliation and degradation, by implementing secure email practices, the ATLA can show a sincere intention to incorporate and complete this holistic branding process. Because a lawyers’ livelihood is based entirely on their reputation, it is reasonable and plausible that the industry would be eager to lighten public scrutiny and to do so in a manner that is quick and shows real intention.

In reality, many more trust-building activities need to take place with clients to prevent further brand erosion. Lawyers need to be more careful in safeguarding client and case information and practices should not involve an over-exaggerated concern with billable hours. To complete a full 180, the ATLA needs to provide their lawyers with new guidelines for their practice and also provide the tools and resources necessary to gain back customer trust and satisfaction.

For the new American Association for Justice to surpass the principles and values set forth by the former persona the ATLA, adopting a robust client email privacy solution in their firms is a solid first step.

More articles at articles host

5 October

Joke’s On Us: Changing Perceptions Of The Legal Industry

The Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA) has decided to change their name to The American Association for Justice, to better suit what they do rather than who their members are. The name change is an attempt to help others see that a lawyers job is to fight for the people, and to change the perception of boastful lawyers who sit back and collect exorbitant trial fees.

A firm’s reputation is an extremely valuable asset for creating and building status and often times is worth more than actual profitability. If in fact a true image change is to occur for the ATLA or American Association for Justice, more than a name change is required. Improved organizational practices over client confidentiality as a PR branding strategy should be considered.

Trust in Branding

Branding trust for a legal organization involves careful deliberation about where the new brand will live, who the brand affects, the strengths and weakness of the new brand, and examining barriers and opportunities the new name and image may bring forth.

If consistency does not exist on all levels, no benefits will come from re-branding the ATLA or American Association for Justice.

Branding Confidence and Trust in Client Confidentiality

Many firms have vulnerabilities that can lead to potential data leakage via email breach, with no defense implementation in place. At any given time in a firm, lawyers aren’t the only one’s handling client information. Assistants, front desk workers, and paralegals at the office may have access to sensitive information like clients names, banking information, location of assets and social security numbers. If any of this information would escape the firm into opposing council’s hands, malicious thieves, or even to the press, a firm’s reputation would be jeopardized.

Showing a commitment to the prevention of email theft and misuse can do much to brighten the AAJ’s public perception. Within a legal office, lawyers can extend this image of trust by assuring their clients that their information remains in the protected walls of the practice.

Small and Large firms alike should consider implementing email anti-theft solutions and/or data encryption of sensitive email and documents. This will not only show the industries commitment to confidentiality but will also protect client and case information from being misused by co-workers, assistants, and other attorneys. It’s like putting a stamp of trust on the document itself, assuring the sender and recipients of email that the information is well protected.

Instead of looking for a written statement to put an end to their public humiliation and degradation, by implementing secure email practices, the ATLA can show a sincere intention to incorporate and complete this holistic branding process. Because a lawyers’ livelihood is based entirely on their reputation, it is reasonable and plausible that the industry would be eager to lighten public scrutiny and to do so in a manner that is quick and shows real intention.

In reality, many more trust-building activities need to take place with clients to prevent further brand erosion. Lawyers need to be more careful in safeguarding client and case information and practices should not involve an over-exaggerated concern with billable hours. To complete a full 180, the ATLA needs to provide their lawyers with new guidelines for their practice and also provide the tools and resources necessary to gain back customer trust and satisfaction.

For the new American Association for Justice to surpass the principles and values set forth by the former persona the ATLA, adopting a robust client email privacy solution in their firms is a solid first step.

More articles at articles host

5 October

Joke’s On Us: Changing Perceptions Of The Legal Industry

The Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA) has decided to change their name to The American Association for Justice, to better suit what they do rather than who their members are. The name change is an attempt to help others see that a lawyers job is to fight for the people, and to change the perception of boastful lawyers who sit back and collect exorbitant trial fees.

A firm’s reputation is an extremely valuable asset for creating and building status and often times is worth more than actual profitability. If in fact a true image change is to occur for the ATLA or American Association for Justice, more than a name change is required. Improved organizational practices over client confidentiality as a PR branding strategy should be considered.

Trust in Branding

Branding trust for a legal organization involves careful deliberation about where the new brand will live, who the brand affects, the strengths and weakness of the new brand, and examining barriers and opportunities the new name and image may bring forth.

If consistency does not exist on all levels, no benefits will come from re-branding the ATLA or American Association for Justice.

Branding Confidence and Trust in Client Confidentiality

Many firms have vulnerabilities that can lead to potential data leakage via email breach, with no defense implementation in place. At any given time in a firm, lawyers aren’t the only one’s handling client information. Assistants, front desk workers, and paralegals at the office may have access to sensitive information like clients names, banking information, location of assets and social security numbers. If any of this information would escape the firm into opposing council’s hands, malicious thieves, or even to the press, a firm’s reputation would be jeopardized.

Showing a commitment to the prevention of email theft and misuse can do much to brighten the AAJ’s public perception. Within a legal office, lawyers can extend this image of trust by assuring their clients that their information remains in the protected walls of the practice.

Small and Large firms alike should consider implementing email anti-theft solutions and/or data encryption of sensitive email and documents. This will not only show the industries commitment to confidentiality but will also protect client and case information from being misused by co-workers, assistants, and other attorneys. It’s like putting a stamp of trust on the document itself, assuring the sender and recipients of email that the information is well protected.

Instead of looking for a written statement to put an end to their public humiliation and degradation, by implementing secure email practices, the ATLA can show a sincere intention to incorporate and complete this holistic branding process. Because a lawyers’ livelihood is based entirely on their reputation, it is reasonable and plausible that the industry would be eager to lighten public scrutiny and to do so in a manner that is quick and shows real intention.

In reality, many more trust-building activities need to take place with clients to prevent further brand erosion. Lawyers need to be more careful in safeguarding client and case information and practices should not involve an over-exaggerated concern with billable hours. To complete a full 180, the ATLA needs to provide their lawyers with new guidelines for their practice and also provide the tools and resources necessary to gain back customer trust and satisfaction.

For the new American Association for Justice to surpass the principles and values set forth by the former persona the ATLA, adopting a robust client email privacy solution in their firms is a solid first step.

More articles at articles host

5 October

Joke’s On Us: Changing Perceptions Of The Legal Industry

The Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA) has decided to change their name to The American Association for Justice, to better suit what they do rather than who their members are. The name change is an attempt to help others see that a lawyers job is to fight for the people, and to change the perception of boastful lawyers who sit back and collect exorbitant trial fees.

A firm’s reputation is an extremely valuable asset for creating and building status and often times is worth more than actual profitability. If in fact a true image change is to occur for the ATLA or American Association for Justice, more than a name change is required. Improved organizational practices over client confidentiality as a PR branding strategy should be considered.

Trust in Branding

Branding trust for a legal organization involves careful deliberation about where the new brand will live, who the brand affects, the strengths and weakness of the new brand, and examining barriers and opportunities the new name and image may bring forth.

If consistency does not exist on all levels, no benefits will come from re-branding the ATLA or American Association for Justice.

Branding Confidence and Trust in Client Confidentiality

Many firms have vulnerabilities that can lead to potential data leakage via email breach, with no defense implementation in place. At any given time in a firm, lawyers aren’t the only one’s handling client information. Assistants, front desk workers, and paralegals at the office may have access to sensitive information like clients names, banking information, location of assets and social security numbers. If any of this information would escape the firm into opposing council’s hands, malicious thieves, or even to the press, a firm’s reputation would be jeopardized.

Showing a commitment to the prevention of email theft and misuse can do much to brighten the AAJ’s public perception. Within a legal office, lawyers can extend this image of trust by assuring their clients that their information remains in the protected walls of the practice.

Small and Large firms alike should consider implementing email anti-theft solutions and/or data encryption of sensitive email and documents. This will not only show the industries commitment to confidentiality but will also protect client and case information from being misused by co-workers, assistants, and other attorneys. It’s like putting a stamp of trust on the document itself, assuring the sender and recipients of email that the information is well protected.

Instead of looking for a written statement to put an end to their public humiliation and degradation, by implementing secure email practices, the ATLA can show a sincere intention to incorporate and complete this holistic branding process. Because a lawyers’ livelihood is based entirely on their reputation, it is reasonable and plausible that the industry would be eager to lighten public scrutiny and to do so in a manner that is quick and shows real intention.

In reality, many more trust-building activities need to take place with clients to prevent further brand erosion. Lawyers need to be more careful in safeguarding client and case information and practices should not involve an over-exaggerated concern with billable hours. To complete a full 180, the ATLA needs to provide their lawyers with new guidelines for their practice and also provide the tools and resources necessary to gain back customer trust and satisfaction.

For the new American Association for Justice to surpass the principles and values set forth by the former persona the ATLA, adopting a robust client email privacy solution in their firms is a solid first step.

More articles at articles host

5 October

Joke’s On Us: Changing Perceptions Of The Legal Industry

The Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA) has decided to change their name to The American Association for Justice, to better suit what they do rather than who their members are. The name change is an attempt to help others see that a lawyers job is to fight for the people, and to change the perception of boastful lawyers who sit back and collect exorbitant trial fees.

A firm’s reputation is an extremely valuable asset for creating and building status and often times is worth more than actual profitability. If in fact a true image change is to occur for the ATLA or American Association for Justice, more than a name change is required. Improved organizational practices over client confidentiality as a PR branding strategy should be considered.

Trust in Branding

Branding trust for a legal organization involves careful deliberation about where the new brand will live, who the brand affects, the strengths and weakness of the new brand, and examining barriers and opportunities the new name and image may bring forth.

If consistency does not exist on all levels, no benefits will come from re-branding the ATLA or American Association for Justice.

Branding Confidence and Trust in Client Confidentiality

Many firms have vulnerabilities that can lead to potential data leakage via email breach, with no defense implementation in place. At any given time in a firm, lawyers aren’t the only one’s handling client information. Assistants, front desk workers, and paralegals at the office may have access to sensitive information like clients names, banking information, location of assets and social security numbers. If any of this information would escape the firm into opposing council’s hands, malicious thieves, or even to the press, a firm’s reputation would be jeopardized.

Showing a commitment to the prevention of email theft and misuse can do much to brighten the AAJ’s public perception. Within a legal office, lawyers can extend this image of trust by assuring their clients that their information remains in the protected walls of the practice.

Small and Large firms alike should consider implementing email anti-theft solutions and/or data encryption of sensitive email and documents. This will not only show the industries commitment to confidentiality but will also protect client and case information from being misused by co-workers, assistants, and other attorneys. It’s like putting a stamp of trust on the document itself, assuring the sender and recipients of email that the information is well protected.

Instead of looking for a written statement to put an end to their public humiliation and degradation, by implementing secure email practices, the ATLA can show a sincere intention to incorporate and complete this holistic branding process. Because a lawyers’ livelihood is based entirely on their reputation, it is reasonable and plausible that the industry would be eager to lighten public scrutiny and to do so in a manner that is quick and shows real intention.

In reality, many more trust-building activities need to take place with clients to prevent further brand erosion. Lawyers need to be more careful in safeguarding client and case information and practices should not involve an over-exaggerated concern with billable hours. To complete a full 180, the ATLA needs to provide their lawyers with new guidelines for their practice and also provide the tools and resources necessary to gain back customer trust and satisfaction.

For the new American Association for Justice to surpass the principles and values set forth by the former persona the ATLA, adopting a robust client email privacy solution in their firms is a solid first step.

More articles at articles host

5 October

Identity Theft Shield

We live in an information-oriented society. Technology allows us to do business and make transactions literally in a matter of seconds. This abundance of information has given rise to a new crime - identity theft. In fact, according to a 2003 release from the Federal Trade Commission, almost 10 million people in the United States may be victimized by identity bandits each year.

So what does that mean? Someone has stolen your credit card your credit card company can help you with that, right? Well, according to the FTC, almost 60% of identity theft issues dont pertain to your existing credit card accounts. Identity theft can occur as a result of new lines of credit being opened in your name either through credit cards or bank loans as well as phone/utility fraud and even employment related fraud. Because we are susceptible through so many avenues in our daily life, we are all at risk.

What can you do? Where would you turn if you found yourself in this situation? Would you know where to start to clear your name? Well, now you dont have to worry about what to do as we have the answer.

As you already know, Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. is a pioneer of the legal services industry. With more than 30 years of experience in providing legal rights protection to our members, we have now teamed with Kroll Inc., the worlds leading independent risk consulting company. Kroll is a 30 year old, publicly traded company that provides a broad range of investigative, intelligence, financial, security, and technology services to help clients reduce risks, solve problems, and capitalize on opportunities. Headquartered in New York with more than 60 offices on six continents, Kroll has a multidisciplinary corps of more than 2,200 employees and serves a global clientele of law firms, financial institutions, corporations, nonprofit institutions, government agencies, and individuals. Over the last three years, Kroll has developed a unique solution for victims of identity theft. This new service is now available to Pre-Paid Legal members through the IDENTITY THEFT SHIELD benefit.

What does this benefit provide our members?

The Identity Theft Shield gives you easy access to the resources you need to understand your credit ratings and to fight back if an identity thief threatens your financial standing. This benefit is designed to alert you to suspicious account activity, to restore any resulting damage to your credit history and to reimburse you for covered out-of-pocket expenses you may incur in the process.

1. Credit Report Through Experian

Make sure your financial records are accurate.

Your credit standing is one of your most important financial assets. It not only affects your ability to get credit, it often dictates the interest rate at which you can borrow. It can also affect your ability to purchase insurance or to find employment. Some insurance companies and prospective employers use your credit rating to gauge your sense of responsibility.

Experts recommend you review your credit report regularly. The Identity Theft Shield makes it easy. Members are entitled to an up-to-date credit report from Experian at no additional charge.

Personal Credit Score and Analysis from Experian

Know your credit score . . . and how it affects your ability to borrow.

Your credit score is derived from the information in your credit report. This score is used by lenders to determine your creditworthiness. The higher the number, the better your chance of being approved for the credit you want.

A detailed analysis of your Personal Credit Score will be included with your Credit Report. You can use this analysis to evaluate your current credit standing.

2. Continuous Credit Monitoring Through Experian

Learn of suspicious activity before your credit is ruined.

A professional thief can assume your identity in just a few hours. But it can take years for you to repair your credit standing.

Early detection is key to minimizing the damage caused by thieves who steal you name.

With your Identity Theft Shield membership, your credit files will be monitored through Experian daily. Suspicious activity will be brought to your attention, providing you with early detection. Youll receive prompt notice if any new accounts are opened in your name . . . or if negative notations are added to your credit report.

3. Fraud Restoration Service

Get personal assistance and advice from experts.

Any discrepancy in your credit report should be addressed at once. Call our Customer Services Department at the designated Identity Theft Shield number and explain your concerns. If it is identity theft, our fraud investigators will assist you every step of the way. A Fraud Restoration package with complete and detailed materials, aids, and instructions will be rushed to you.

If you sign a Limited Power of Attorney, you will be entitled to Enhanced Restoration Services. Kroll will work with you to determine the extent of the fraud in your credit and regarding your identity. On your behalf, Kroll will issue fraud alerts to the three major credit repositories, the Federal Trade Commission, the Social Security Administration, and the United States Postal Service. Kroll will work with the bureaus, creditors, and collection agencies to restore your credit accuracy with regard to your identity theft issues. If necessary and reasonable, Kroll will work with law enforcement, the department of motor vehicles, and other organizations to resolve your identity theft issues

If you decline the Limited Power of Attorney, you will receive Basic Consulting Services. Kroll will work with you to determine the extent of the fraud in your credit and regarding your identity. Kroll will provide you with contact information and procedures for the organizations you will need to work with. Kroll will provide sample letters and forms and be available to you through a toll-free phone number for assistance and advice throughout the process of restoring your identity.

Now, it is important to understand any identity theft that occurred prior to the membership enrollment or any situations relating to a business identity are not covered. Identity Restoration will not apply if the identity theft is the result of a dishonest, criminal, malicious, or fraudulent act you, your spouse, or child participated in, directed, or had knowledge of. Restoration services will not be provided for a preexisting, known stolen identity event. You must be an active, paid member to receive restoration services. Plan benefits do not cover financial losses arising from the identity theft.

$25,000 Identity Theft Restoration Reimbursement Benefit Pays your covered out-of-pocket expenses.

The Identity Theft Shield includes up to $25,000 in a fraud restoration reimbursement benefit. This coverage will reimburse you for covered expenses you may incur while working to clear your name. These include:

  • lost wages up to $500 per week with a maximum of up to four weeks

  • legal defense fees and expenses

  • the cost of notarizing affidavits or similar documents, long distance telephone calls, and even postage!

  • the cost of re-filing applications for loans, grants, or other credit instruments

Some restrictions of the restoration reimbursement benefit include: Insurance benefits and services provided by member companies of American International Group, Inc. (AIG). The description is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions and exclusions of the policies described. Please refer to the actual policies for complete details of coverage and exclusions. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions. Coverage available only if the stolen identity event occurs while you are an Identity Theft Shield member and is reported to us within six months.

Did you know, that on average, victims spend more than 175 hours and $1,500 in out-of-pocket expenses to clear their names. With Pre-Paid Legals IDENTITY THEFT SHIELD, the cost of combating identity theft is much less. For just $9.95/month, IDENTITY THEFT SHIELD members have the added security of knowing they have someone to fight the battle for them. And, the best thing is this monthly fee provides benefits to both you, the member, and your spouse.

Reports on identity theft are everywhere; television, newspapers, magazines, talk shows, etc. Now that you know this benefit is available, doesnt it make sense to have this sort of coverage? Imagine the peace of mind you would have knowing you and your spouse would have access to all of these services if you found yourself to be an identity theft statistic? Contact the person who referred you to this call to sign up for your Identity Theft membership. Dont wait until it is too late - do it today!

For a full list of disclosures and exclusions, please consult the Identity Theft Shield written material provided by Pre-Paid Legal.

About The Author

Mark Freink, Independent Associate for Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc.

markfreink@prepaidlegal

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13 August

I Find The Defendant: Vulnerable Security Solutions For Legal Firms

Today, many law firms overlook security measures, either because of complexity or expense. Whether in fields of family law, prosecution, defense, intellectual property, or tax law, law firms request a great deal of personal data that most other highly regulated industries would have to keep under lock and key.

When a lawyer begins building a case, he/she collects a significant amount of personal information about their client, from credit card information to financial acquisitions. The information is then placed into a database within the firm’s records. This common scenario of gathering personal information and storing it in a database is similar to banks and credit card companies. Databases in the legal industry are hazardous because too often minimal requirements are placed on legal firms to install adequate IT security systems.

Sensitive electronic data such as financial documents or emails can be exceptionally damaging if they fall into the hands of the opposing counsel or motivated cyber criminals. Integrity, quality and fostering relationships are goals that every law firm strives to achieve with their clients. However, the uncontrolled leak of client data could shatter all of these positive ambitions.

The attorney-client privilege is the most important concept in the legal field because it protects communications between attorneys and their clients. If clients are constantly worried about the whereabouts of their information, it is not likely that positive progress on a case will occur. Attorney-client privileges must be established to pursue a successful outcome for a client’s case.

Marc Rotenberg, executive director of the Electronic Information Center, in Washington stated, It’s very important to enforce our existing privacy laws and bring these types of cases because the government and the private sector seem to be doing such a poor job of safeguarding people’s information. (1) More can be done to safeguard client’s information in this technology-driven age.

The legal industry, steeped on confidentiality, needs to reexamine how it traditionally deals with electronic client information. According to a study conducted by Millard Brown IntelliQuest, of all factors driving technology investments in law firms, 77% feel that attorney’s demands are very important while 62% consider their client’s demands very important. Both statistics identify the importance of using integrated systems for communication. Law firms must emphasize their clients because it is their data which is left vulnerable if a breach occurs within the firm.

The American Bar Association (ABA) is responsible for principles governing the legal industry. While the ABA has strongly advised firms to implement tougher electronic security measures, they have never fully written laws regarding the issue. In their formal opinion (No. 99-413) concerning email encryption, the ABA stated:

The Committee concludes, based upon current technology and law as we are informed of it, that a lawyer sending confidential client information by unencrypted e-mails does not violate Model Rule 1.6(a) in choosing that mode to communicate. This is principally because there is a reasonable expectation of privacy in its use.

These statements seem outdated because security issues are so prominent today. Motivated criminals and opposing counsels will do whatever it takes to infiltrate a company in order to gain access to email content and stored data.

The legal industry has made some strides in data protection by using basic virus and spyware programs, but has yet to address issues of outbound email protection. Dennis Kennedy of NetTech, Inc. claims, It is not uncommon to find attorneys who receive well over a hundred new e-mails messages a day.(2) Hundreds of unencrypted e-mails a day containing case strategies and potentially personal information cannot continue to float through cyberspace waiting for someone to illegally intercept them.

How can this problem be fixed? The solution to dealing with email and electronic data involves two things, implementing email encryption software and seeking knowledge about potential email and data threats. Email encryption with rights management applied allows attorneys to send and receive emails without clients having to worry about their privacy. In the past, lawyers have solely relied on email disclaimers in their emails, such as DO NOT FORWARD THIS EMAIL. Email disclaimers are often ignored and are simply not enough in todays high risk digital age. Law firms also need to know what’s going on in the technology world and wisely update their security practices to protect client’s data, as well as encrypt emails to make their clients feel safe when communicating online. Attorney-client privileges mean a lot in the legal industry, and in order to retain that trust, lawyers need to do what they can to secure their relationships.

Legal firms must strive to stay ahead of those who would profit from snooping on email communication. Who knows what the legal industry could turn into if firms dont change their security ways? There have been many debatable court decisions over the past quarter century, such as the OJ Simpson trial and Enron cases that have left Americans skeptical about the attainment of some data used in the trial. By implementing email encryption, the legal industry can once again communicate with their clients with complete confidence and be sure that their clients have the same assurance that they will have in the court room.

- - - - - -

End Notes

1.Hines, Matt. Data Losses May Spur Lawsuits. Security IT Hub. June 8, 2006. 26 Jun 2006 .

2.Kennedy, Dennis. Taming the Email Tiger. Dennis Kennedy Blog. October 14, 2005. 6/10/2006 .

Nathan Kully is an employee at Essential Security Software, Inc., a provider of email and document security solutions for small businesses and accounting professionals, in Bellevue, WA. He is also a contributing editor to the TechKnowBizzle.com. Nathan is currently a student at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, where he is studying Applied Economics and Management.

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29 July