CLASSES:

696s    Information Technology and The Judicial System
Winton Woods

Units:  2, Graded.

Prerequisites: None.

Recommended Courses:

Course Overview:  This seminar inquires into the techniques, costs and benefits to the judicial system of developments in information technology in both the near and far term. It will focus on information technology and the Internet as it affects the administrative and adjudicatory functions of the courts including: 1) how information technology may impact the trial process and the development of alternative dispute mechanisms; 2) how technology can support in-court information management and presentation 3) intercourse between clients, lawyers, witnesses and other parties with judicial officers; and 4) training in the use of software and hardware in a courtroom setting. Students will be required to develop a technologically based presentation which they give in the Courtroom of the Future.

Course Materials:  On line & Cd-ROM (Prepared by Professor) .

Class Format:  Discussion, guest lecturers, student presentations.

Written Assignments:  Final paper on selected project.

Type of Exam: (Possible) Multiple Choice

Basis for Grading Student Performance:  Student project, presentations and paper on project; Possible exam.

Other Comments:   Windows based access to Internet required. Outlook 2000 or Outlook Express and PowerPoint 2000 must be installed and operational on the first day of class.  Check for current technology requirements.  Attendance is required.  POP3 or IMAP email capability required to be operational on the first day of class.

 
690    Law Practice Management & Technology
Winton Woods

Units:  2, Graded

Prerequisites:  Basic understanding of computers, ability to use word processing and web browser software; WestLaw or Lexis accesses; active e-mail account; commitment to using technology on a daily basis and a commitment to learning how technology can make you a better lawyer.

    In order to take this course you must have a direct Internet connection and the ability, at minimum, to receive POP3 email and attachments on the first day of class.  You must further agree to access that email via the Internet on a daily basis since much of the information exchange in the class takes place over the Internet.  The Law College provides that level connectivity free to students at the Law College via dail-up or direct connection from the library.  Please go to http://www.law.arizona.edu/ualaw.html for information on this service.

Recommended Courses:  None

Course Overview:  The course focuses on the development of lawyering skills, document production and management, computerization of law offices and courts and law office management.  Leading members of the Arizona Bar address special problems relating to practice in Arizona.  Outside speakers from the American Bar Association may visit the class and in the Spring 2001 semester we will have four sessions presented by outstanding Arizona consultants. Among the issues that have been discussed are:

 1. Using e-mail and the Internet effectively
 2. Using Powerpoint & other presentation programs
 3. Lifestyle issues of cyberlawyers
 4. Modern problems of billing and fee for service
 5. Forms of practice - solo to big firm
 6. Modern document management systems
 7. Gender and other discrimination in law firms
  8. Time management and calendaring - using office suites, Ecco & other
 9. Using your staff and paralegals
 10. Pro Bono work and commitment
 11. Document assembly and production
 12. Rainmaking and other development efforts
 13. Stress and substance abuse in the law practice
 14. Malpractice, insurance and risk management
 15. Dealing with clients
 16. Problem solving and dispute resolution techniques
 17. Solo practice and mentoring
 18. The business of law – staff issues, accounting, cash flow analysis, etc.
 19. Training young lawyers and billing in the first year

Course Materials:  Course materials are only available online & CD-ROM (Prepared by the Professor).

Class Format: Discussion and demonstration.

Written Assignments:  Each student will produce and present short papers on various topics.

Type of Exam:  Exam will cover material discussed by the guest lecturers.

Basis Grading Student Performance: Participation 50%; paper and exam 50%; 100% attendance required.

Other Comments:  This is a course that holds special appeal for those who intend to go into private practice and who have solid skills in basic technology. This course is directly related to the task of developing professional practice related courses.

    In order to participate in the Law Practice Management and Technology Class this year each student must have access to a computer running the Windows 95b, Windows 98 or Windows 2000 operating system.  Microsoft Office 2000 has been provided for the use of the class and your computer must be capable of using it and Outlook 2000 messaging software.  You will also need a full Internet connection capable of supporting document transfer and collaboration software.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact Winton Woods at 881-6118.