A Judicial Perspective: Technological Competence and the Law Schools

The revolution in information technology and its consequential impact on all elements of our society, including the courts, have increased the competence gap those lawyers who have the technical knowledge this new world demands and those who lack it. In 2012, a Comment to Rule 1.1 of the Model Rules of Professional Responsibility was amended to advise that lawyers “should keep abreast of changes in the law and its practice, including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology.” Given what is now at stake, law schools have a fundamental responsibility to make their students aware of these new obligations. The author, a judge, shares a proven, practical course template for effectively educating law students on technology and its impact on legal practice.

John M. Facciola