By Cheryl Nelan
Providing managed IT services for law firms goes beyond protecting the firm’s data -> keeping systems running productively and securely is the end goal. Law firms need to consider the protection of each of their clients’ data as well. It is critical that law firms meet IT compliance requirements that apply to their firm (for example the NYS Shield Act). And, they must comply with industry-specific requirements that their clients may fall under…for example, HIPAA, FINRA, DFS, NIST, CMMC, etc.
IT Compliance
Meeting compliance requirements keeps the firm in business and protects their clients’ interests. So, it goes without saying that strong cybersecurity policies and procedures are critical.
To implement a multi-layered cybersecurity strategy requires a full IT staff and/or a strong legal IT partner. With the right resources in place, a law firm can manage these requirements which in turn can earn them new clients and improve their profitability.
Law Firms That Fail IT Audits Lose Clients
Law firms are prime targets for hackers. They house sensitive data for their clients – and in a number of cases it has not been well protected. A breach or failed IT audit is a huge danger sign for clients. A firm that has been breached can expect clients to start looking elsewhere. A firm that takes cybersecurity seriously can point to policies and procedures that protect their data.
And, there are advantages to IT compliance. With strong managed IT services in place, the law firm operates better.
Improved Staff Productivity
Thousands of billable hours are wasted every year when employees can’t perform their work due to computer issues. A proactive maintenance program and 24×7 help desk can ensure users are productive with fewer issues to start. And, if there is an issue, the employee has easy access to someone that can help – right away.
No wasting time trying to resolve it themselves. No wasting someone else’s time when they ask a co-worker to help. Fast resolution means they get back to work both quickly and productively.
Lower Operating Costs
It is a misconception that managed IT services cost more. It costs less than hiring the IT staff needed to protect and keep the firm’s systems running. And, over time, systems run better and employees are more productive. That monthly fee actually saves the firm money.
Virtual CIO Services
As we work with law firms, we first learn about the business itself. This includes understanding any compliance requirements they must meet and adjusting our recommendations accordingly.
For a long time, we’ve been providing managed IT services for law firms that include anti-virus, patch management, DNS protection, malware scans, managed backups, etc. along with our virtual CIO services. These services are key to meeting cybersecurity guidelines including New York’s Shield Act and PCI compliance.
Looking into the future, we are now seeing many more requests for log monitoring (with full SEIM/SOC services), end user training, and full documentation of IT policies and procedures. As more industries adopt cybersecurity guidelines and requirement, these advanced security offerings will become an important element of our clients’ IT strategies and planning.
CMIT is here to guide our clients through these changes – it is part of our Quarterly Business Review that we do with all of our managed IT services clients.
In the Rochester area, CMIT Solutions provides local, responsive IT support and technology services for small to mid-sized businesses. As your IT partner, we ensure systems are running, your data is secure, and your staff is productive. Backed by a national system, we have over 200 locations across the country with local ownership in Rochester.
Cheryl Nelan has over 25 years experience supporting small to mid sized businesses and helping them grow. In 2011, she started CMIT Solutions of Monroe to support businesses in the Rochester, NY area. She wanted to take her experience and leverage the strength of a national franchise to help local businesses leverage technology. Focusing on customer service and developing a culture where great people want to work has always been central to her mission. Today, CMIT Solutions of Monroe is one of the top CMIT franchises and the recipient of a number of local awards as well. She is proud of the team and loves working with our clients.
