In the past, computer science was a fairly discrete field. Most jobs that required coding don't require a computer science degree and are outside the scope of most non-computer science degrees. Digitalization, however, has changed everything including outsource paralegal services. Suddenly, the idea of software designed for lawyers who outsource paralegal services doesn't sound so outrageous.

The debate over whether attorneys should learn to code and whether it should be taught in law schools continues, but it seems increasingly obvious that having at least some knowledge of coding is useful for attorneys. Having some coding skills might give you a competitive advantage even if you're not a full-time programmer. We will aim to examine programming for lawyers, why it might benefit your outsource paralegal service work, and how to get started.

Yes, lawyers would benefit from learning the fundamentals of coding. That is if your bandwidth allows it. A more efficient legal practice requires innovation and programming in the increasing data- and tech-driven legal industry. Law has been changed by digital technology in a similar way to other technologies, David explained, in that it has made certain things easier, and it has made scaling your work easier in some respects.

Developing a basic knowledge of programming will help you make better use of outsource paralegal service.

Learning how to code as a lawyer doesn't mean quitting your practice to build custom software full-time. A one-size-fits-all approach isn't realistic. A lawyer should strive to become "coding literate" when it comes to programming. To the extent that suits them best, they should become fluent in the languages of coding.

A vast concept such as "coding" should be kept in mind. There is no need for lawyers to become Bonafide computer programmers (or have the capacity to do so). Nevertheless, they can level up on the tech competency continuum in a way that helps their situation.

If you're building certain systems from scratch, there may not be a great return on investment for most lawyers. It makes sense to learn programming to understand them, if you aren't an expert coder, sometimes purchasing a program makes sense. Depending on how much customization you need or want, you can use Zapier or the API provided by the program.

While some argue coding skills demystify computer programs so you can streamline outsource paralegal service workflows, others argue lawyers' limited development time should not be devoted to legal-specific skills-but the answer lies somewhere in the middle. Your outsource paralegal service practice area and what your clients require will determine how valuable learning to code is to you. 

A lot of problem-solving skills can be developed by learning to code in another environment.

At first glance, these roles may seem quite different. The core of being a lawyer is quite similar to that of being a programmer. You probably already have the skills and mindset to be a great lawyer, so you'll likely have no problem learning to program. The reasons are as follows:

1. Coders and lawyers are both problem solvers

As a lawyer, you process a lot of information, use data to make predictions and informed decisions, and solve problems whether you're interpreting laws, writing briefs, or doing legal research for your clients. When you look at coding from a broader perspective, it's also about processing information, spotting problems, and solving them.

2. Coders also rely on logic and language 

Lawyers who use math, science, and logical thinking skills in their work-they might not realize they're using the same skills as coders.

 What's the first step? If you want computer programming skills tailored for the legal field, then seek out legal-specific courses. Lawyers may find the following computer science skills particularly useful:

• Python or SQL programming languages to help with data mining
• Algorithm development
• Privacy and security
• Cloud computing to learn how it can be applied to your practice
• Scalability so solutions can handle various loads 
• Organizing information with databases

Computer programming is good for more than just understanding programming. It can also help you improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and innovation of your outsource paralegal services.

• Using automation to streamline manual tasks

 Automating manual tasks, whether with legal technology software, computer programming, or a combination of both, can streamline workflows, save time, and make your practice more efficient. It boosts legal workflow and automates email communication, for example, so your office can send emails to clients in an automated but personalized way.

• Analyzing and interpreting data effectively will help you improve your practice's performance.
• Getting the most from your data

Code-learning tools for lawyers

If you want to dabble in coding as a lawyer, some tools can help streamline the process. The following two options are smart:

• Community Lawyer
• Zapier

It's worth exploring coding and computer science, even if you don't wish to become a full-time computer programmer to better embrace innovation and position yourself within the rapidly evolving legal field. It does not take expertise to realize the benefits of this strategy. A basic understanding of computer programming combined with the use of the latest tools and technology can provide you with a competitive edge in the field. 

Start by building your legal technology knowledge base through these webinars on topics such as understanding legal tech competence, adopting technology for long-term success, and using automation to increase efficiency.