Law Technology

Attorneys and Phones ? What?s Your Poison?

By Andrew Flusche

Editor’s note: This is a guest post by Kat Sanders.

There’s no doubting the fact that almost every lawyer possesses a mobile phone ? it is sometimes the lifeline that keeps them connected to their office and their clients when they’re on the go. Most of them are either the proud owners of the sturdy workhorse BlackBerry while some others have been swayed by the allure of the new editions of the iPhone. So would you choose the more sedate BlackBerry or the sleeker iPhone?

Well, it all comes down to a matter of personal choice and your budget, but there are few practical aspects that you need to consider when weighing your options between the two smart phones.

If you?re tech savvy and want loads of functions and applications on your mobile device, go with the iPhone. This device from Apple is packed with just about everything a designer could think of. You need some time though to learn your way around this nifty gadget before you’re able to use it like a seasoned pro. The iPhone combines voice and text capabilities and makes browsing a very pleasant experience. But if you’re likely to feel overwhelmed by the arsenal of ammunition at your disposal, it’s best to just look at and not buy this phone/mobile computer.

If you prefer to use the phone mainly to send email, a BlackBerry is your best bet. It is not complicated to use and the lighter application load makes it faster and more convenient when you’re in a hurry. It’s also easier to use if you are not a technology buff and are only getting one of these smart phones because everyone else is and you don?t want to be left behind.

No matter what the technology, it must be used wisely and with restraint. Some of us are so addicted to technology that we cannot hold back from replying to every email and text message as soon as they arrive or from taking every call that comes through, even when we’re attending meetings or talking to clients and colleagues. The good etiquette line must be drawn somewhere if we are to utilize technology efficiently without tarnishing its value.

This article was written by Kat Sanders, who regularly blogs on the topic of court reporter school at her blog Court Reporter Schools. She welcomes your comments and questions at her email address: katsanders25@gmail.com.

Editor’s note: I’m still using my trusty Moto Q that runs Windows Mobile. There are lots of smart phone options out there, so it’s always best to do your homework even before visiting a phone store.

Full post as published by Legal Andrew on July 14, 2009 (boomark / email).