NQ blog - March 2015: Work on the Move

One of the challenging aspects of working in a busy practice is the need to stay on top of a large workload.

This can be made increasingly difficult when a large portion of your day is spent in the courtroom; I'm sure we've all had that feeling of dread about heading back to the office to face a growing pile of paperwork.

I have probably mentioned in previous blogs about the need to be efficient. This can help not only for catching up on paperwork but getting on top of it altogether and ensuring a smooth running of your caseload.

I see solicitors in court using their iPads or their phones to send and reply to emails ‘on the go’ as well as making legal aid applications. There are an increasing number using technology to help them multitask and make the best use of their waiting time in court.

Some solicitors have an e-diary system wherein they can look at a glance at their upcoming court schedules. This can encourage forward planning; meetings, prison visits etc can be structured around the same.

The Outlook diary system is great for setting reminders. When a file isn't on your desk or within eyesight, it can be difficult to remember that a particular matter needs to be actioned. A pop-up reminder system can ensure that you carry out the necessary steps timeously, thereby meeting any important deadlines.

Harnessing the available technologies to your advantage can assist in becoming more efficient in handling the administrative tasks that can, at times, become burdensome. This will free up valuable time to concentrate on other pressing business.