• Use of attachments can simplify document exchange
• E-mail filters can dramatically reduce message noise
• Automated responders can assist you in managing communications
  

Safeguard your work – and your clients’ interests – by using a non-modifiable file format

• When you send a Word or WordPerfect document, it can be edited
• Protect your documents so that they can be viewed and printed but not altered
• Use Adobe Acrobat Portable Document Format documents to allow recipients to see but not touch

Note: Federal courts are adopting PDF as format for e-filing

Email: Filters

A filter is like a sieve that you design

• Based on your rules, an incoming e-mail message is handled in a particular way
• Can check e-mail addresses or text in messages

Options include

• Delete incoming message (junk mail or spam)
• Forward message to others
• Warn you that message has arrived
• Place message in folder for later reading
  

A common complaint by lawyers is that clients have higher expectations of access

• Can be managed by setting expectations
• Use an auto-responder to help set rules
  • Sender receives message from you
  • Message outlines when they can expect a reply