7 ways to stop hackers from hijacking your inbox

Looking for some lawyer life hacks? We’ve got you covered. Want to stop hackers from turning your inbox into their playground? There are seven things you can do to stop them. Tired of meetings that drag on with no results? Learn how to run them smarter, not longer. Wondering why we’re already talking about holiday cards in September? Because firms that plan now are the ones remembered later. And for a masterclass in practice tips, tune into this week’s featured podcast, which is hosted by Ghislaine Maxwell’s defense attorney.

But first, as you reflect on the tragedy that occurred 24 years ago, you may want to book a virtual tour of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. 

Why are lawyers always the bearers of bad news?
Law school admissions are way up, which is usually a sign the economy is tanking. 

Monster-in-laws.
Fifth person convicted for the murder of Florida law professor Daniel Markel. His ex-wife’s family allegedly ordered the killing so their grandkids could move to South Florida. 

SCOTUS ASMR.
Over 1,000 people have watched this relaxing—or cringe—video of someone listing all the Supreme Court justices while chewing gum. 

A real legal pickle…ball.
Boise, Idaho, is converting popular pickleball courts back into tennis courts (and locking them!) following lawsuit over noisy ballers. Apparently, 200+ similar lawsuits have been filed across the country.

What we’re reading. 
Justice Amy Coney Barrett is the latest SCOTUS member to author a book. And she might be speaking about it at an event near you. 

This meeting could have been an email better
Harvard Business Review has compiled a cheat sheet for leading more effective meetings. It emphasizes actionable techniques, such as reframing your mindset before high-stakes conversations, keeping agendas focused on decisions rather than updates, and assigning clear ownership of next steps. For those not running the meeting, it even provides strategies to nudge things back on track without overstepping.

Why this matters: Adopting even one or two of these strategies could mean the difference between a meeting that drains energy and one that drives action. Which is good because inefficient meetings are more than just a waste of time—they kill productivity and morale (Harvard Business Review)

Protecting your inbox 

Law firms are increasingly being targeted by hackers, with email as the most common entry point. This article from Matthew Kaing, the founder of eSudo Technology Solutions, lays out seven things you can do to protect your inbox from common hacking techniques. Taken together, Kaing says these tactics create a layered defense that’s strong enough to stop the majority of attacks.

Why this matters: No matter the size of your firm, cybersecurity isn’t optional; it’s part of your ethical and professional obligations. The risks of a hack are very real, and so are the consequences (malpractice exposure and bar complaints). Following the checklist in this article not only reduces risk but also demonstrates to clients, regulators and your insurer that your firm takes data protection seriously. (eSudo Technology Solutions)

Hear what Ghislaine Maxwell’s attorney has to say

"For the Defense," a podcast hosted by Miami-based criminal defense attorney David Oscar Markus, is a must-listen for anyone who wants to hear the candid opinions of the country’s top trial attorneys. It’s on a bit of a hiatus (no new episodes since July) as Markus is busy representing Ghislaine Maxwell, but the back catalogue is impressive. 

Each episode features a candid conversation with a top defense attorney about one of their most significant trials. These discussions pull back the curtain on strategies, ethical dilemmas, client dynamics and the risks inherent in going to trial in today’s plea-driven system. 

Why this matters: Markus and his guests have handled some of the biggest cases of the past few decades. Think People v. Trump, Casey Anthony, the “Deep Throat” projectionist and Harvey Weinstein. Their conversations are wide-ranging and revealing. (For the Defense)

• Equal custody law driving down divorce rates in Kentucky
• According to a new Texas law, free speech ends at 10 PM
• FTC plans to get rid of rule banning non-competes 
• Arizona may give non-attorneys the ability to practice criminal law
• That NBC interview of 12 federal judges that everyone is talking about

The -ber months are back

Pumpkin spice is here, which means it’s time to order… holiday cards? It may seem a bit early, but if you don’t want to be rushed, now is the time to start thinking about the seasonal greetings your firm plans to send to clients, contractors, referral sources and even your employees. 

Hallmark has some suggestions for what your business’s cards should say, while Refinery29’s got a round-up of unique options. And if you need further inspiration, check out past winners of Above the Law’s annual Holiday Card Contest. 

Why this matters: ‘Tis the season to start checking items off your end-of-the-year to-do list. Getting your firm’s holiday cards done now gives you time to include a personal message and ensure they arrive on time.

You're all caught up!

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 Raise the Bar is written and curated by Emily Kelchen and edited by Bianca Prieto.