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Law Firm Autopilot

Ernie "the Attorney" Svenson

Ernie Svenson is an attorney on a mission to help solo and small firm lawyers improve their practices. He started the 5th lawyer blog in 2002, which garnered national attention from folks inside and outside of the legal profession. Since then he's been helping lawyers who want better practices, and understand that technology is an integral part of creating a profitable, smooth running firm. Law Firm Autopilot features interviews (with attorneys and law practice consultants), listener Q&A, and practical strategies for folks who want to earn more, and work less, while spending more time relaxing away from the office!

  • 19 minutes 48 seconds
    300: Leveraging AI by Balancing Critical & Creative Thinking

    Want to harness the power of AI while at the same time minimize risk? Then learn to balance critical and creative thinking as you use AI in your law practice. Listen and get concrete recommendations for making this happen now.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Exploring AI's role in enhancing legal practice for solo and small firm lawyers
    • Balancing critical and creative thinking in law with AI tools
    • Practical steps for integrating AI, starting with low-risk tasks
    • Importance of collaborative learning and peer insights in AI adoption
    • Embracing AI's potential despite its flaws and imperfections

    Resources from this Episode

    General Resources

    Other Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    21 January 2025, 9:00 am
  • 22 minutes 9 seconds
    299: The Future of Legal Work: What Lawyers Need to Know in 2025

    How can solo attorneys harness AI to stay sharp and competitive? This episode dives into Microsoft’s new report on AI and how it will impact legal research, document review, and client service. Listen and get practical tips and strategies for leveraging AI in 2025—boosting productivity, streamlining work, and sharpening your edge. 

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Embracing AI to enhance productivity and client engagement for solo and small firm lawyers
    • Insights from Microsoft's New Future of Work Report on AI integration in legal practices
    • The concept of microproductivity and breaking tasks into manageable parts with AI
    • Addressing concerns about AI diminishing human intelligence and highlighting collaboration benefits
    • AI's role in contract drafting, client communication, and engagement through chatbots
    • Increasing accessibility and affordability of AI tools for solo practitioners
    • AI's potential to contribute to a more equitable legal system and bridge the justice gap

    Resources from this Episode

    General Resources

    Other Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    7 January 2025, 9:00 am
  • 39 minutes 14 seconds
    298: Thinking Like a Philosopher: Jonny Thomson on Truth, AI, and the Socratic Method

    Oxford philosophy professor Jonny Thomson explains how philosophy sharpens critical thinking, reveals hidden biases, and helps uncover the truth in a messy, complex world. From the Socratic method to the role of testimony and the challenges posed by AI, this episode dives into the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and the modern search for knowledge. A must-listen for lawyers and anyone who values sharper thinking.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Exploration of the intersection between philosophy and artificial intelligence
    • Johnny Thomson's transition from educator to full-time writer and his book "Mini-Philosophy"
    • The role of the Socratic method in philosophy and law
    • Discussion of Meno's Paradox and the debate between rationalism and empiricism
    • Examination of the reliability of knowledge and the importance of reliable sources
    • Contemplation of artificial intelligence's ability to replicate human intelligence

    Resources from this Episode

    General Resources

    Other Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    24 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 31 minutes 32 seconds
    297: A Year of Remote Lawyering: How Jeff Austin Took His Practice to Patagonia

    In this episode, you'll hear from Jeff Austin, an estate planning attorney from Durham, North Carolina, who spent a year practicing law remotely while living in Argentina with his family. Jeff will explain how he transitioned to a paperless, remote practice, tackling challenges like how to notarize documents remotely, how to manage client communication, and how to handle physical mail.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Jeff Austin's transition to a remote, paperless law practice while living in Argentina.
    • Innovative solutions for remote notarization and client communication.
    • Maintaining ethical standards as a North Carolina attorney practicing abroad.
    • Practical strategies for building a credible online presence and client trust.
    • The importance of technological tools like eSIM cards and virtual mail services.
    • Adaptability and resourcefulness in international living and remote work.

    Resources from this Episode

    • MyCase - Practice management software that Jeff used
    • Traveling Mailbox - A physical mailbox service that scans and manages mail. 
    • One Notary - Remote notarization service
    • BestNotary - Concierge estate planning service that provides notary and witness services.
    • Amazon Kindle - E-reader for reading work-related materials
    • Next Stand - Portable laptop stand for ergonomic use.

    General Resources

    Other Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    10 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 17 minutes 24 seconds
    296: Mastering Your Zoom Presence: Tips for Looking Professional Online

    You should optimize your appearance in online meetings and presentations to appear professional, credible and authoritative. You don't need to do a lot to make that happen, and in this episode you'll find out how with tips for best cameras, mics, backgrounds, plus simple, practical tips for being a good host and attendee.

    Topics covered:

    • Why Your Zoom Appearance Matters
    • The "Zoom Economy": Investing in On-Screen Appearance
    • DIY Tips for a Professional Look
    • Creating the Perfect Background
    • Lighting and Makeup Tips
    • Upgrading Your Webcam and Microphone
    • Best Practices for Zoom Attendees
    • Hosting Effective Zoom Meetings
    • Conclusion and Additional Resources

    Resources from this Episode

    General Resources

    Other Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    26 November 2024, 9:00 am
  • 1 hour 1 minute
    295: Deb Feder, a Business Attorney Now Helps Professionals Grow Their Businesses

    In this episode Deb Feder shares her transition from business lawyer to a coaching business for business professionals. You'll hear about her early career trials, favorite book picks, and how technology has changed the legal profession. She'll also share her great advice on email efficiency, time management, client rapport, boundary setting, and using LinkedIn for business development.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Deb Feder's transition from business law to coaching business owners, including lawyers
    • Insights into refining email communication and mastering time management
    • The challenges and opportunities of practicing law in the pre-tech era of 1999
    • Importance of authenticity and building genuine client relationships
    • Mindfulness practices and setting boundaries for personal and professional success

    Resources from this Episode

    General Resources

    Other Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    12 November 2024, 9:00 am
  • 18 minutes
    294: Google NotebookLM (plus AI in the Courtroom)

    This episode discusses Google's NotebookLM, an AI research assistant designed to handle groups of complex documents. Listen and learn about its amazing features, such as generating summaries, citations, and FAQs. 

    You can also hear the “audio overviews” feature, in which two bots discuss a recent case (Matter of Weber) involving the use of AI in the courtroom.

    Here are details of what was covered:

    • Introduction to Google's NotebookLM
    • Exploring NotebookLM's Features
    • Getting Started with NotebookLM
    • Demo of NotebookLM's Audio Summary
    • Weber Case: Family Feud Over Bahamas Property
    • AI in the Courtroom: A New Frontier
    • The Legal Implications of AI Evidence
    • Balancing AI Benefits and Risks

    Resources from this Episode

    Other Resources

    Thanks to Our Sponsor Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai you’re actually hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.   If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.   Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans including add-ons (up to $1000).   And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.   EPISODE CREDITS: If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.   He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.   Find out more at EmeraldCity
    29 October 2024, 8:00 am
  • 37 minutes 57 seconds
    293: Want to Travel the World While Practicing Law? Here’s How Brian Dixon Made It Happen

    Believe it or no, it's possible to work as "digital nomad lawyer" and spend all your time traveling the world. Our guest Brian Dixon knows this first hand.  In this episode, you'll learn about his journey from a traditional law practice to fulltime globetrotter.

    Listen and learn which practice areas are best suited to this kind of life, and which tech tools are most important to adopt.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Transition from traditional legal practice to digital nomad lifestyle.
    • Balancing work-life with travel, highlighting benefits like flexibility and reduced stress.
    • Practical advice on maintaining reliable connectivity and managing correspondence remotely.
    • Exploration of tools and strategies for remote legal work, including Airalo and VPNs.
    • Importance of having a well-established process before adopting a digital nomad lifestyle.

    Show Notes

    General Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    15 October 2024, 8:00 am
  • 45 minutes 5 seconds
    292: The Keys to AI-enhanced Legal Writing (with Ross Guberman)

    Explore the cutting edge of legal writing with Ross Guberman, the founder of a company called Legal Writing Pro. In this episode, learn interesting ways that generative AI can help lawyers write better briefs and contracts.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Generative AI tools for stress-free, effective legal writing
    • Insights on creating influential legal writing resources
    • Exploration of BriefCatch, an AI-powered legal writing tool
    • Ethical considerations and potential of AI in legal practice
    • Strategies for crafting compelling legal arguments and reply briefs

    Resources from this Episode

    Show Note

    General Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    1 October 2024, 8:00 am
  • 44 minutes 43 seconds
    291: Judge Scott Schlegel Explores the Use of AI in the Court System

    In this episode, you'll hear Judge Scott Schlegel explain why he believes that lawyers and judges should know as much as possible about how AI tools work. And why they should gain this understanding by using the tools as much as possible.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • Judge Scott Schlegel's career journey from finance to tech-savvy appellate judge.
    • AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Llama, Grok, and Perplexity in legal practice.
    • Ethical and practical implications of AI in courtrooms.
    • Innovative idea of using voice clones for jury instructions.
    • Enhancing legal research and case management with AI.
    • Legal challenges surrounding data scraping and intellectual property.

    Show Notes

    General Resources

    17 September 2024, 8:00 am
  • 42 minutes 42 seconds
    290: 3 Keys to a Smooth Running Practice

    Building a successful law practice is a lot easier when you focus on the right things. And that's exactly how attorney Elise Buie built a thriving practice that's both financially lucrative and immensely enjoyable. In this episode she shares her top three secrets to massive success.

    In this episode, you will hear:
    • Building a successful law practice with controllable elements and technology
    • Importance of self-reflection and personal responsibility in legal practice
    • Utilizing AI and technology to streamline law firm operations
    • Effective delegation and outsourcing for solo and small firms
    • Emphasis on stoic principles and focusing on the process over results
    • Practical strategies for implementing SOPs and boosting productivity

    Show Notes

    General Resources

    Follow and Review:

    We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    Thanks to My Sponsor

    Smith.ai

    Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you’re hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish.

    If there’s one great outsourcing opportunity for your practice, this is it. Let Smith.ai have your back while you stay focused on your work, knowing that your clients and prospects are being taken care of.

    Plans start at $210/month for 30 calls, and pricing starts at $140 for 20 chats, with overage at $7 per chat. They offer a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee on all receptionist and live chat plans, including add-ons (up to $1000).

    And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai.

    Episode Credits

    If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

     

    4 September 2024, 8:00 am
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