Author archives

Jerry Lawson. President, Chief Consultant, New Strategies In Legal Technology LLC. Jerry Lawson brings fresh approaches to the legal technology space. He is currently emphasizing his work in knowledge management for Lawyers. He is completing the manuscript for his next book, Knowledge Management for Law Firms: Building A Culture of Success.

Recognizing And Dealing With AI Snake Oil

Jerry Lawson reviews Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor’s new book, What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What It Can’t, and How to Tell the Difference is a timely wake-up call amidst today’s AI hype. Narayanan and Kapoor are on a mission to help readers separate genuine AI advances from “snake oil” – the bogus or overhyped claims that too often swirl around artificial intelligence. For lawyers and regulators grappling with AI, Narayanan and Kapoor’s analysis provides a much-needed reality check on both the technology’s potential and its pitfalls.

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Subjects: AI, Book Reviews, Legal Education, Legal Research, Legal Technology, Social Media

Artificial Intelligence, ABA Formal Opinion 512 And Access To Justice

Jerry Lawson evaluates the American Bar Association’s Formal Opinion 512, “Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools” as a mixed bag. Lawson states that the Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility took a significant step in the right direction by legitimizing the idea that it is appropriate for lawyers to use AI. Equally important, it suggests guardrails necessary for the safe use of artificial intelligence. It also provides valuable guidance on other related topics, with client confidentiality significant. It should not be surprising that the ABA would face challenges regulating a complex new technology.

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Subjects: AI, Ethics, Legal Education, Legal Marketing, Legal Profession, Legal Research, Privacy

Book Review – Watchdogs: Inspectors General and the Battle for Honest and Accountable Government

The 2024 election results have prompted discussion about the effectiveness of “guardrails” that might restrain Presidential activities that could harm the nation. Jerry Lawson’s review notes that Glenn Fine’s new book, Watchdogs: Inspectors General and the Battle of Honest and Accountable Government is a timely and welcome contribution to the national debate. Fine has had considerable experience with Offices of Inspectors General (OIGs), one of the key institutions that serve as limits to corrupt or overreaching Executive Branch actions.

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Subjects: Book Reviews, Government Resources, Legal Research, United States Law

When Should Presenters Apologize?

Referencing decades of experience as a presenter and an attendee at presentations, Jerry Lawson cautions us not to begin a presentation with an apology, which can be compelled by a tech glitch or some other reason not within our control. Lawson states that the habit of beginning with an apology is so old that it has a name in Medieval rhetoric, the captatio benevolentiae, meaning an attempt to capture the audience’s goodwill. Most importantly, It doesn’t work. Lawson highlights a range of scenarios for which an apology or no apology, are appropriate. His lesson applies to far more than presentations, as these reactions are common in a work environment where they may indeed not serve your objectives.

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Subjects: Communication Skills, Continuing Legal Education, Education, Presentation Skills

Slide Show Formatting Basics

Legal tech expert and frequent speaker Jerry Lawson affirms that the best substantive presentation material looks even better if packaged well. Formatting slide shows is an art. Compliance with some basic slide show formatting principles won’t make you Monet, but will put you on the road to being a passable PowerPoint artist. Lawson shares his presentation tips and techniques.

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Subjects: Communication Skills, Legal Marketing, Legal Profession, Presentation Skills
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