Poorly managed technology can be the most costly risk for a law firm

For years, many law firms have invested in technology as an “operational adjunct” to their legal work. Today, that vision is a thing of the past. Technology is no longer just a tool, it is a key driver of business continuity, professional reputation and client trust, and when not managed strategically, it becomes a silent but lethal risk.

What are the most common IT management risks that can be observed in Latin American law firms?

1. Lack of IT governance

Technological areas with no clear direction, no visible managers and no strategic plans aligned with the legal business.

2. Dependence on third parties without control

External suppliers operating without supervision or well-structured contracts, generating vulnerabilities or poor decisions.

3. Weak cybersecurity

Studies that store highly confidential information but do not have minimum protection, monitoring or incident response policies.

4. Operational technological obsolescence

Equipment and systems without maintenance or renewal that affect the productivity of lawyers, generating silent losses.

5. Lack of performance metrics

The quality of IT support is not measured, nor is the actual use of tools, nor are technological costs linked to the value they contribute to the firm.

And what is the solution?

It's not just acquiring new systems. It's taking strategic control of the technology function within the firm. This includes:

✅ Designing an IT plan aligned to the legal business.

✅ Governing / managing technology projects and vendors.

✅ Implement security with legal and regulatory vision.

✅ Measure results through real indicators of efficiency and value.

✅ Assign expert leadership (internal or external) with strategic vision.

Today more than ever, technology management in a law firm is no longer just the responsibility of “the techies”, it is a matter of management, strategy and reputation. Therefore, we must stop seeing technology as an expense... and start seeing it as a strategic asset that requires direction, intelligent investment and constant evaluation. The real risk is not using technology; the real risk is not managing it with vision and responsibility.

Most common IT management risks observed in Latin American law firms