how computer science is used in being a lawyer

by Cedrick Tremblay 5 min read

Through a mix of technical instruction and discussion of case studies, Computer Science for Lawyers will empower you to be an informed contributor in technology-driven conversations. It will also prepare you to formulate technology-informed legal arguments and opinions and, ultimately, to serve clients better.

What is computer science for lawyers?

 · Computers uses by Lawyers The technology drives costs down & makes legal services more affordable to greater numbers of people , The computer store the documents for evidence that will be useful in the litigation , It can review & create the contracts , It helps the companies to identify potential fraud & the other misconduct or do legal research .

What do lawyers use computers for?

There was a time when computer science was a fairly discrete field. Coding was a skill used almost exclusively for programming jobs, and foreign to those of use without a computer science degree. ... But the core of being a lawyer is actually quite similar to the core of being a programmer. If you have the skills and mindset to be a great ...

What can I do with a science and law degree?

Computer Science for Lawyers is an online course comprised of 10 modules. The topics are explored through a combination of technical instruction and discussions about applying the concepts in a legal setting. Each module includes a video lecture, related assignments, and supplemental materials. Along the way, the course equips you with hands-on ...

Why computer science for lawyers with HLS executive education?

 · One of the most important uses of computers in the legal profession is conducting legal research. Many legal projects require extensive legal research, including references to …

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Is Computer Science useful for lawyers?

Computer science courses that are designed specifically for lawyers can help funnel the broad range of programming skills into those that are most directly relevant to practicing law. Choose a route that accommodates your interest, time, and availability.

Can Computer Science and law go together?

The university is pioneering new forms of interdisciplinary course work—enabling, indeed requiring law students to engage with world-class computer scientists, entrepreneurs, legal practitioners, and policy makers.

How do lawyers use computer skills?

Many courts now use electronic systems that allow case documents, such as pleadings, motions and petitions, to be filed with the court using a computer and Internet connection. This process gives the courts a way to easily manage electronic files.

Is Computer Science or law better?

Law is seen as better than Computer Science since it offers greater earning potential and higher compensation. Being a Lawyer is also more prestigious. Acquiring a Law degree, on the other hand, is significantly more difficult, more expensive and time-consuming than obtaining a Computer Science Degree.

What can you do with law and Computer Science?

Potential careersIntellectual property law.Computer forensics.Information technology.Internet and cyberspace law.

What do you mean by cyber law?

Cyber law (also referred to as cyberlaw) is a term used to describe the legal issues related to use of communications technology, particularly "cyberspace", i.e. the Internet.

How can technology help lawyers?

Unified Communication and Collaboration solutions allow lawyers and clients to communicate using instant messaging, email, voicemail, or web conferencing. Clients can talk with their attorneys over the Internet in lieu of traveling to a law office.

Which computer course is best for law students?

The Computer Science for Lawyers and Law Students (CS50) course is a variant of Harvard University's introduction to computer science, CS50, designed especially for lawyers (and law students).

Do lawyers have technical skills?

Technical skills, including specialized skill sets specific to the field, are becoming more desirable for attorneys to have. For instance, working with computer applications like spreadsheets, word processors and online applications are several technical aspects of the job.

Is CS easier than law?

Nothing, in particular, is easier or complex than the other. It all depends on your understanding and interest. For instance; Literature papers are anytime considered easier than computer science or legal studies. But, you should ask the programming experts or renowned lawyers of the era.

Is Computer Science the hardest degree?

At advanced levels, majors may study artificial intelligence, machine learning, and algorithm development. Computer science ranks as one of the hardest college majors for its combination of theoretical and technical material.

What is done in Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computers and computing as well as their theoretical and practical applications. Computer science applies the principles of mathematics, engineering, and logic to a plethora of functions, including algorithm formulation, software and hardware development, and artificial intelligence.

Is LLB a bachelor's degree?

The full form of LLB is bachelor of law. LLB is derived from Legum Baccalaureus. Candidates who have completed their graduation in any discipline are eligible to pursue 3-year LLB, The 5-year LLB is an integrated law program that can be pursued after intermediate.

What is done in Computer Science?

Computer science is the study of computers and computing as well as their theoretical and practical applications. Computer science applies the principles of mathematics, engineering, and logic to a plethora of functions, including algorithm formulation, software and hardware development, and artificial intelligence.

What is the job of a lawyer?

1. Lawyers are problem-solvers—so are coders. A lot of being a lawyer revolves around processing information, using data to make predictions and informed decisions, and problem solving— whether it’s interpreting laws, writing briefs, or conducting legal research to assist your clients.

What skill do lawyers use?

And so learning that skill is a skill that all attorneys, I think, need to use.”. 2. Lawyers use language and logic —so do coders. At its heart, the law centers on language, just like computer programs.

Why is it important to learn to code?

To David, learning to code can help lawyers to better understand the realm of the possible when it comes to tools that can help their practice. By knowing what you can do with the tools you have and knowing what kind of tools are available to you, you can be a better member of interdisciplinary teams. And, if you’re hiring actual coders to customize programs for your firm, you’ll have the language to be able to ask for (and get) what you want.

Why is learning code important?

Learning code is also a great way to flex your problem-solving muscle in another environment.

Should lawyers learn to code?

While the long-running debate on whether lawyers should learn to code and whether it should be taught in law schools continues, it’s becoming increasingly clear that having at least some knowledge of coding is useful for attorneys.

Is coding good for lawyers?

In short, yes—learning the fundamentals of coding is a good idea for lawyers. That is, if you have the bandwidth for it. In an increasingly data- and tech-driven legal industry, embracing innovation and programming is key to building a more efficient practice.

Who wrote the book Coding for Lawyers?

Written by Sharon Miki. There was a time when computer science was a fairly discrete field. Coding was a skill used almost exclusively for programming jobs, and foreign to those of use without a computer science degree. In our digital age, however, things have changed. “Programming for lawyers” doesn’t sound as outrageous as it once may have used ...

What is computer science for lawyers?

Computer Science for Lawyers will equip you with a richer appreciation of the legal ramifications of clients’ technological decisions and policies. This online course is delivered as a series of video modules that you may access on your own schedule. Topics include programming languages, algorithms, cybersecurity, cloud computing, database design, and challenges at the intersection of law and technology. No prior programming experience is required.

How many modules are there in computer science for lawyers?

Computer Science for Lawyers is an online course comprised of 10 modules. The topics are explored through a combination of technical instruction and discussions about applying the concepts in a legal setting. Each module includes a video lecture, related assignments, and supplemental materials. Along the way, the course equips you with hands-on experience with Python and SQL, languages with which you can mine data for yourself. In addition, each semester you will have the opportunity to ask questions and delve deeper into the topics with the program’s faculty.

What do lawyers rely on?

Most attorneys rely on computers, mobile phones, and the cloud every day. But few have an in-depth understanding of how these technologies work or the privacy implications associated with their usage. Computer Science for Lawyers will equip you with a richer appreciation of the legal ramifications of clients’ technological decisions and policies.

How has the use of computers in the legal workplace changed the way firms are managed?

The increased use of computers in the legal workplace has changed the way firms are managed. For example, client case tracking traditionally was done using a large calendar; cases now are tracked electronically, which makes the danger of a missed court date or filing deadline less likely. Meanwhile, software such as AbacusLaw frequently is used to track billable hours, resulting in more precise time accounting by attorneys and savings to clients, who are able to track the attorney's work to the minute.

What is legal research?

Online Legal Research. One of the most important uses of computers in the legal profession is conducting legal research. Many legal projects require extensive legal research, including references to previously decided cases. Traditionally, companies such as West printed volumes of case law, requiring attorneys to read through keyword indexes ...

How do attorneys get new clients?

Increasingly, attorneys use computers and the Internet to obtain new clients. Many attorney websites provide valuable general information such as explanations of legal rights and the legal process. Some websites allow a potential client to directly email or chat with an attorney before scheduling a consultation.

How has the law changed in the past 20 years?

While paperwork still is a reality, law practice has changed drastically in the past 20 years, mainly because of computer technology. In firms large and small, the extensive use of computers is the norm.

What is electronic discovery?

Discovery is the process by which opposing parties to a lawsuit exchange relevant information such as police reports, financial documents and witness testimony. Traditionally, discovered items were provided as photocopied documents.

Do federal courts use the internet?

All federal courts and many state courts now use the internet for all their case filings. Attorneys need computers to access these online portals, where they can file lawsuits and any documents they need to file within that lawsuit. Some jurisdictions will not permit licensed attorneys to file by paper. References.

Do lawyers use email?

Most modern law firms use email more than fax, which used to be the quickest way to send a letter. Law firm emails combined with smart phones mean that attorneys always have access to their communications and can stay on top of their cases.

Which is higher, law school or computer science?

If you mean Computer Science as opposed to law school, then Computer Science has a much higher learning curve than law school.

How many graduates get full time bar work?

Only go to a school where at least 80% of the graduates obtain long term full time bar passage required work (i.e. work as a lawyer). Nationally, only 50-60% of graduates find such work. The others made an expensive mistake.

Is computer science harder than law school?

If you mean Computer Science as opposed to law school, then Computer Science has a much higher learning curve than law school. Typically speaking, the sciences are much harder than the arts. There are various fields still being explored in Computer Science.

Can you argue with a computer?

You can’t argue with a computer. It either works, or it does not. The computer cannot be convinced that “it is in the best interest of society” to compute the result you desire; it does exactly, and precisely, what it is told, whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing.

Is computer science good for lawyers?

I think that lawyers with computer science degrees can have very good careers and can be extremely useful. An understanding of the technology behind the issues is always useful. And given how much we have going on technology wise these days, those who are trained in the area are a welcome addition to providing representation in areas where their training offers relevant knowledge.

Do big companies need legal advisers?

Big companies need legal advisers on technologies. New technologies emerge day by day and then corresponding cyber law. You can learn the ethical practices and help the companies and people to be in compliance with that.

What is the compromise computer scientists must live with?

Co-regulation is the compromise computer scientists must live with.

Who publishes the digital library?

The Digital Library is published by the Association for Computing Machinery. Copyright © 2018 ACM, Inc.

What is diluting government control of the Internet?

What that means is diluting government control of the Internet by ensuring a compromise based on industry self-regulation, but with oversight by users and by government regulators. 3 Examples include global Top Level domain name oversight.

What is the difference between science and law?

Science, traditionally, is a discipline of sharing information , and an "open-ended search for expanded understanding, whose 'truths' are always subject to revision.".

Can an invention be patented?

An invention that has been previously described in the literature , or something that has been on the market for years, cannot be patented. Yet, the filing party, or patent office, might not be aware of the pre-existing product or literature.

Can a patent case be opened on behalf of a client?

The cases might be opened on behalf of clients already holding rights to a product or copyright that has reason to claim those rights have been infringed by another party. Other times, clients might require protection from a lawsuit filed by another party whose patent claim, they feel, is invalid.

Address a Low GPA

STEM majors tend to have lower grade averages than humanities and social science majors. And those STEM majors who somehow skated through college with spotless transcripts are unlikely to switch gears to pursue a legal career.

Steer Clear of Technical Jargon

If your resume is oriented toward jobs in STEM fields, it may be dense with technical jargon. For example, many software engineers have resumes that detail their coding experience and projects in language illegible to lay readers.

Tie Your Background to Your Interest in Law

Too often, applicants from STEM fields come across as pinballs bouncing between professional fields. They write personal statements that either inadequately explain their commitment to a legal pursuit or neglect their previous experience.

Gain Relevant Experience

If all your previous academic and professional experience is in a lab or technology office, then admissions officers may doubt that you have the reading, writing and qualitative research skills needed to handle the rigors of law school.

What is computer forensics?

Computer forensics, also called data or digital forensics, deals with the recovery and analysis of digital evidence recovered from computers, networks, and digital storage devices. You might work in a crime lab, law enforcement department, or other public agency, or as a private contractor.

How long does it take to get a cybersecurity certificate?

Whether you’re just starting out in the field or looking to advance your career, you can earn a credential from an industry leader in less than eight months.

What is ethical hacking?

Ethical hacking takes a proactive approach to cybersecurity by trying to find vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.

Is computer science a good career?

If you’re organized, pay attention to detail, and enjoy problem solving, computer science could be a good fit. Enhance your understanding of technology and learn skills to empower you to work in the computer careers of the future.

Is video game design a new industry?

While video game design isn’t a new industry , it’s one that will likely continue to evolve. As games get more advanced, gaming companies will need more people skilled in designing and programming virtual reality, graphics, game physics, networks, and user interfaces.

Why do we need computer security experts?

Likewise, there's also a need for computer security experts to clarify whether or not what seems like suspicious activity on a computer really is an indication of criminal intent or not. It's come to light in some cases, for example, that when a suspect appears to have been using a browser to search for bomb making techniques or some other suspicious information, that the person may have only accessed certain pages that had 100's of links to pages with this type of information or have been redirected to them by other sites, which would make it far less clear that the defendant every actually searched for this information. It's one of the many tricky areas where computer security expertise can swing a case in one way or another.

What can I do at the FBI?

At the FBI you could be a special agent, or work for one of several different departments that employ programmers and computer scientists. I think it likely that if you chose to look into doing things outside of computer science you could do all sorts of other things as well.

Is a law enforcement degree worthless?

The worst part is , there's not many degrees more worthless than a law enforcement degree when you've quit being a cop within the first year .

Is forensics as lucrative as security?

Forensics may not be as lucrative as security, but the need for experts in this area is probably more widespread. Good luck! It should make you feel better to see this current chart of computer careers in general, and how much stronger they look in today's economy versus other job categories.

Do computer forensics work before law enforcement?

Most computer forensic specialists in law enforcement gain their skills during their careers, not before. The techniques involved in forensic recovery of evidence and software engineering are related, but different.

Is there a market for forensic services?

I know that there is a market for forensic services - investigation of technology crimes ofter requires someone who is an expert in understanding, managing, and securing evidence.

Do the Feds value CS degrees?

The Feds would certainly value someone with a CS degree more than local law enforcement. And I would think a District Attorneys office would also be interested in this person.

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