If You Offer It & Market It, They Will Come: Legal Practice Technology Instruction In a Variety of Formats

While most law students have developed some level of technology skills, they are often unfamiliar with software applications or new technologies of particular value in law office administration and courtroom advocacy.   Recognizing the need to develop this knowledge many bar associations have tried to step into the void by providing management assistance programs that emphasize technology.  However, new attorneys may not know about such programs or may be so involved in trying to provide competent representation that they do not feel they can dedicate time to seeking such assistance.  Law Librarians, who are experienced instructors and who have a familiarity with technology, can add particular value in preparing students for practice by offering law practice technology instruction.  This instruction can be offered in many formats including credit courses, non-credit certificate programs, and single session brown bag training.  This program will include a discussion of the considerations supporting selection of the format best suited to your institution as well as a discussion of the marketing tools that may be used to inform students of the availability of such instruction.