Working with a cloud services provider offers a wide variety of benefits for a law firm; from lowered costs and remote access to improved organizational efficiency and greater flexibility and scalability. Unfortunately, many law firms are still hesitant to adopt cloud technologies due to concerns about protecting and controlling confidential client data, as well as the legal implications stemming from data privacy regulations. According to, LawNext, as many as 40 U.S. states have adopted the duty of technology competence, meaning that lawyers must “keep abreast of changes in the law and its practice, including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology.” Furthermore, 30 U.S. states have issued ethics opinions that permit cloud computing.
Now more than ever, the legal community is accepting that a move to the cloud makes sense. In this article, we’ll cover 3 of the most common fears law firms have concerning the cloud and how they can overcome these concerns.
1. Security of Confidential Client Data
In its 2021 Tech Report, the American Bar Association reported that up to 25% of its respondents had experienced a data breach at some point, while earlier reports suggested that security concerns remained the most significant challenge for as many as 86% of law firms surveyed. As part of their mandate, law firms have a commitment to their clients to keep their client information and cases confidential and so handing off such important information is enough to make any legal executive think twice.
To protect your firm, ensure the provider you choose has an excellent reputation and meets your security needs. Ask your provider important questions, focusing on their security measures and the regulations surrounding data. Many are surprised to learn that although providers host their data and infrastructure they don’t have access to view their data. It’s like handing them a book to keep and take care of, but locking it so they can’t read or view the pages. Utilizing a reputable service provider offers your organization security advantages that most law firms would be unlikely to have in-house.
2. Data Privacy Regulations
Legal professionals have long been wary about a move to the cloud environment with specific concerns about data privacy regulations at the core of that apprehension. Over time, many countries have implemented laws governing the flow of information and usage of the cloud. For example, a specific jurisdiction may limit what type of data can leave the country, while other regions may have their own ethical standards pertaining to cloud usage that may impact an organization's reputation if not met so be sure to speak to your cloud provider and share any concerns you may have.
If your firm is concerned about meeting the regulatory standards specific to your jurisdiction you must first be aware of the laws on the books. Knowing the legal requirements is an important first step. Your provider should be able to work with you to ensure you’re meeting your obligations and provide expert advice.
3. Fear of Handing Over Control
Handing over critical business applications and data is a major fear for most businesses. Many fear that by hosting their data elsewhere they’ll lose control.
Discuss your concerns with your potential provider, the conversation should address your concerns and how stakeholders involved can share control while still maintaining strong oversight. Distributing control or management of your cloud it allows your IT team to focus on tasks that further the business and promote innovation. You and your provider can design a plan that addresses these concerns and allows you to maintain the level of control you require.
Luckily, if you choose the right service provider, you’ll be able to overcome all of the above challenges.
Are You Looking for a Cloud Service Provider in The Bahamas, the Caribbean, or Latin America?
If you're thinking about switching to a cloud service provider, consider Cloud Carib. Headquartered in Nassau, The Bahamas, with locations across the Caribbean and Latin America, Cloud Carib is a cutting-edge, cloud service provider that offers private and hybrid cloud solutions. If you're looking for tailored cloud solutions from a reliable provider, contact us to speak to a cloud specialist.
We'd love to get you started enjoying the benefits of cloud computing, all you need to do is reach out to us today! We look forward to handling the hard parts, so you can enjoy the efficiency of cloud processing. When our clients first come to us, we talk through these and alleviate any concerns they might have. We talk about how we offer security solutions that a simple physical solution can't match. We provide a team of experts on regulation and compliance, ensuring that you'll never cross a line or violate a rule unknowingly. Finally, we discuss a strategy that works alongside each of our clients, guaranteeing that maintain the necessary control of your cloud services.
