For lawyers, being in-the-know isn't just a matter of keeping up; it's the secret to legal triumph. 

When it comes to in-house counsel, a deep understanding of evolving legal principles, courtroom strategies, and the latest case law help them craft legal masterpieces and make strategic moves on behalf of their organization. 

Staying current isn't just about compliance with laws and regulations—it's about gaining an exhilarating competitive edge. 

Let’s uncover the ways in which you can stay current on civil litigation. 

6 Ways to stay updated on the latest civil litigation

#1 Continuing Legal Education (CLE)

When you dive into CLE activities, you're not just earning credits - you're diving into a world of knowledge and expertise. You'll uncover the freshest statutes, regulations, and case law relevant to civil litigation, ensuring you're always equipped with the most up-to-date legal arsenal.

In the fast-paced legal arena, staying competent is non-negotiable. CLE helps you acquire new skills, understand emerging trends, and develop strategies to conquer even the most daunting legal challenges in civil litigation. 

Ethical obligations are the golden rules of the legal universe, and CLE ensures that you brush up on current legal standards, grasp ethical considerations, and gain a deep understanding of your professional responsibilities when it comes to civil litigation.

Now, let's talk about the exciting array of CLE programs and resources waiting for you to explore:

• Traditional seminars: Traditional seminars offer more than just knowledge – they're a chance to engage in dynamic discussions, mingle with your legal peers, and glean insights from seasoned practitioners
• Webinars: These web-based seminars accommodate your busy schedule and let you soak up knowledge from the brightest legal minds
• Online courses: Transform into a legal scholar with online CLE courses tailored specifically to your legal practice area, including civil litigation. These courses offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace and give you access to quizzes and case studies that will sharpen your legal acumen
• Bar association programs: Local bar associations organize specialized programs on civil litigation topics, curated just for legal professionals like you. These programs delve into local rules, procedures, and practice standards, giving you insider knowledge to conquer the legal challenges specific to your jurisdiction

#2 Legal research and case law updates

Legal research is the compass that guides you through the intricate maze of civil litigation. 

It enables you to understand the intricacies of the law, identify relevant statutes, regulations, and precedents, and craft persuasive arguments based on solid legal principles. 

Here are some ways to keep yourself updated:

• Case law databases: Platforms like Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Bloomberg Law provide comprehensive access to case law, statutes, regulations, and secondary legal sources. These tools offer advanced search capabilities, annotations, and citator services that streamline your legal research process
• Court websites: Don't forget to explore the official websites of courts. Many courts publish their decisions online, granting you direct access to the most recent rulings. Local and specialized jurisdictions often provide valuable insights specific to your practice area
• Legal journals and publications: Subscribe to reputable legal publications that focus on civil litigation, as they often feature articles, commentaries, and summaries of recent court decisions
• Bar association resources: Tap into the resources provided by your local and state bar associations. They often compile case law updates and summaries tailored to the needs of legal professionals in your jurisdiction

You can also take a look at dedicated legal research platforms like Fastcase, Casemaker, and Casetext, which have robust search features. These platforms often offer additional features such as access to secondary legal sources, annotations, and collaborative tools. 

To never miss an update, it’s best to subscribe to newsletters, legal blogs, or email services that provide regular case law updates. These subscriptions bring the latest court decisions, summaries, analyses, and insights directly to your inbox. 

Here are some interesting ways to stay updated:

• Set up alerts: Take advantage of alert features within case law databases or legal research platforms. Customize your alerts based on keywords, jurisdictions, or specific legal topics. This ensures you receive timely notifications whenever new court decisions relevant to your practice area are published
• Read and analyze: Read and analyze each decision, paying attention to the court's reasoning, the legal principles applied, and any dissenting or concurring opinions. This deep dive helps you grasp the implications and potential impact on your ongoing or future civil litigation matters
• Update internal resources: As you uncover valuable court decisions, update your internal resources. Maintain a comprehensive case library or knowledge management system where you can organize and store summaries, key points, and annotations. This centralized knowledge base becomes your legal compass, guiding you in future cases and helping you share insights with colleagues

Also read: Contract Reminder Software: How to Set Up Reminders for FREE

#3 Networking and collaboration

“The best tool you have as a lawyer is your network. Even when we were deciding on a CLM, we were asking around to find out what other people were using and what their experience had been. Talking to your colleagues and your former coworkers, and not burning bridges, is super important.”

~ Katayoon Tayebi, Associate General Counsel, FIGS
Accelerating Your Career as In-house Counsel

Networking is like adding a pinch of flavor to your legal journey. It's not just about business cards and handshakes; it's about building relationships and fostering a vibrant legal community. By connecting with fellow legal professionals, you unlock a treasure trove of insights, unique experiences, and innovative approaches to civil litigation.

Focus on becoming a member of bar associations or industry-specific legal organizations to gain access to exciting events, conferences, and seminars focused on civil litigation. These gatherings will give you opportunities to mingle with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and maybe even discover your legal sidekick!

Consider joining legal forums where legal professionals gather to discuss, debate, and enlighten each other. 

Whether it's attending live events or participating in virtual forums, these platforms allow you to engage with legal practitioners from all walks of life. It's like stepping into a vibrant marketplace of ideas, where you can trade insights, share your triumphs, and learn from the triumphs of others.

“You should look at forming relationships and partnerships with local law firms who are not only familiar with the law of the land but can also help you set up operations and have relationships with various stakeholders, from accountants to compliance specialists to the regulators.”

~ Juliette Thirsk, Head of Legal at Peach Payments
Streamlining Legal at a FinTech Startup 

Finally, don’t forget to collaborate with your colleagues and fellow in-house counsel. Regular meetings, brainstorming sessions, and sharing best practices not only make the process enjoyable but also ensure you're always at the cutting edge of civil litigation strategies.

Engage in conversations with peers and colleagues about the hottest civil litigation trends, recent court decisions, or even the quirkiest legal cases. 

Remember, you can always leverage social media platforms and online legal communities to amplify your networking prowess and engage in lively discussions. 

“Twitter is where I get a lot of my information, honestly. For me, it's more about staying in touch with what's going on in the world rather than just the legal world. I think that informs a lot of what the legal work is going to be. For example, the recent SVB collapse — had a lot of impact on some legal folks. So, staying informed on what's going on in the world is really beneficial, and I always try to stay up to date with news.”

~ Katayoon Tayebi, Associate General Counsel, FIGS
Accelerating Your Career as In-house Counsel

The legal world is evolving, and by adding a pinch of excitement to your professional interactions, you'll not only stay current on the latest civil litigation trends but also have a blast doing it!

Also read: The last word on contract collaboration and negotiation

#4 Utilizing technology and tools

Legal technology serves as your trusty sidekick, helping you navigate the vast landscape of civil litigation with ease. It empowers you to efficiently manage legal research, streamline processes, and adapt to the evolving legal landscape. 

"I think we're getting to this point in the legal tech evolution where legal tech is no longer a weird little area where people hold their noses and use whatever's out there. But rather, it's actually offering strategic tools that are not just value generators for the legal department, but are also becoming product differentiators and a competitive advantage for companies."

~ With Doug Luftman, ex-DGC, DocuSign
The Key to Success as an In-House Legal Counsel & Leader

One amazing example of the most recent technology for research is AI-powered platforms, such as ROSS Intelligence and Casetext. These platforms analyze vast amounts of legal data, providing you with tailored insights, relevant case law, and even suggested arguments. 

However, as you embrace technology, you need to be mindful of ensuring that sensitive information is protected while ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. Here’s how:

• Secure technology infrastructure: Invest in robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard your technology infrastructure. Implement firewalls, encryption protocols, and secure access controls to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access and cyber threats
• Confidentiality and ethical considerations: As you leverage technology for legal research and collaboration, be mindful of maintaining client confidentiality and adhering to ethical obligations. Ensure that the tools and platforms you use prioritize data protection and employ industry-standard security measures
• Compliance with data privacy regulations: Familiarize yourself with data privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Choose technology solutions that align with these regulations and respect individuals' rights regarding their personal data

Also read: Generative AI for Contract Management: Best Practices - SpotDraft

#5 Subscribing to legal publications and newsletters

As an in-house counsel, one powerful tool at your disposal is subscribing to legal publications and newsletters. These publications provide a treasure trove of insights, expert opinions, and practical tips that empower you to navigate the intricacies of civil litigation with confidence.

Here are some of the most reputable publications and newsletters focusing on civil litigation:

• American Bar Association (ABA) Journal: A flagship publication of the ABA, the ABA Journal covers a wide range of legal topics, including civil litigation. It features in-depth articles, case analyses, and updates from legal experts, ensuring you're up to date with the latest civil litigation trends
• The National Law Journal: Known for its comprehensive coverage of legal news, The National Law Journal offers insights into significant court decisions, emerging trends, and noteworthy civil litigation cases. It keeps you informed about critical developments that impact your practice
• Law360: With its wide range of legal news and analysis, Law360 offers specialized coverage of civil litigation. It provides detailed insights into high-profile cases, emerging trends, and key legal strategies, ensuring you stay ahead of the game

Subscribing to legal publications and newsletters brings a multitude of benefits, including:

• Timely updates
• Expert analysis and commentary
• Practical tips and strategies
• Access to thought leadership

Remember to explore both print and online options for these publications and newsletters, as digital formats offer the added convenience of instant access and searchability.

#6 Collaboration with outside counsel

By fostering a strong relationship with outside counsel, you can access valuable expertise, insights, and updates on emerging litigation trends. 

• Specialized expertise: External law firms bring a wealth of specialized expertise in civil litigation. Their deep knowledge, honed through handling numerous cases, allows them to provide insights into emerging legal trends, strategies, and best practices that may elude internal teams
• Fresh perspectives: Collaboration with outside counsel introduces fresh perspectives on civil litigation. They offer diverse experiences, alternative approaches, and innovative solutions that can enhance your organization's legal strategies. Their external viewpoint can challenge conventional thinking, inspiring creative problem-solving
• Extensive networks: External law firms often have extensive professional networks within the legal community. They may have connections to other legal practitioners, attend industry conferences, or participate in specialized forums where they gain insights and updates that can benefit your organization

It’s best to regularly engage with outside counsel to foster open lines of communication. 

Collaboration with outside counsel works best when they are seen as an extension of your in-house team. Integrate them seamlessly into your organization's workflow and ensure they have access to relevant information. 

Over time, they develop a deeper understanding of your organization's needs, preferences, and goals. This familiarity enhances their ability to provide tailored advice, anticipate potential legal challenges, and stay attuned to your organization's specific civil litigation requirements.

Also, provide outside counsel with regular updates on your organization's business activities, changes in operations, or industry trends. 

When you do this, they understand the context in which civil litigation arises, enabling them to provide more tailored advice and strategic recommendations.

Also read: Top Contract Management Training and Resources in 2023

Effectively managing the overflow of information

Ah, the sweet feeling of having gathered all the information you would need to make your case. But how do you keep yourself from being overwhelmed? 

#1 Prioritize and skim

Recognize that not all information requires the same level of attention. Determine which updates require a deep dive and which can be skimmed or quickly reviewed. 

For general awareness or staying up to date, a quick skim may be sufficient. Save your focused attention for critical updates or information directly relevant to your work.

#2 Organize with folders

To avoid overwhelming your inbox, create separate folders or labels for different topics or areas of interest. 

Instead of leaving everything in your inbox or dumping it into a general "Interesting Stuff" folder, categorize the information into specific folders. 

This organization method allows for easier retrieval and helps prevent important updates from getting lost.

#3 Create digital note-taking systems

Consider using digital note-taking systems to save and organize relevant information. Create folders or documents on your computer to store notes, articles, and resources related to specific topics. 

For example, maintain a document titled "Articles to Read for Planned Paper on X" to keep track of relevant sources. 

Tools like Zotero and Evernote can help you organize and annotate your notes, making it easier to locate and utilize information when needed.

#4 Set information consumption boundaries

Recognize your capacity for consuming information. It's important to strike a balance between staying informed and avoiding information overload. 

Set specific times during the day or week for reviewing updates and stick to those boundaries. 

This approach helps maintain focus, prevents distractions, and allows you to allocate your attention effectively.

#5 Regularly assess and filter sources

Periodically review the sources you subscribe to and evaluate their relevance and value. If certain newsletters, blogs, or alerts no longer provide meaningful insights or align with your current needs, consider unsubscribing or adjusting the frequency of updates. 

This pruning process ensures you receive information that truly enhances your knowledge and productivity.

Stepping into the legal arena and staying updated

Remember, effective information management is about finding the right balance. Tailor your approach to your specific needs, be selective in what you consume, and leverage tools and strategies that help you organize, annotate, and retrieve information efficiently. 

Finally, stay tuned to receive more insights from SpotDraft – Everything Legal for Everyone!