How About Some Technology, Santa?
With countless smartphones and tablets out there, the choices are endless. Today’s new tech is tomorrow’s old hat. But here’s what State Bar Practice Management Advisor Tison Rhine would do with $500 if it were in his holiday stocking.
“I would get a 32GB iPad Air for $449 and use the remaining $50 for apps and accessories. If I could stretch to $599, I would opt for the thinner and lighter 64 GB iPad Air 2. “If I already had a decent tablet, I would look into cloud-based practice management services like Clio and MyCase. $500 should pay for 8 to 12 months of service.
“Finally, if I’ve already got practice management software covered, I would upgrade my monitor setup or get an electronically height-adjustable ‘standing desk’ from IKEA. It’s amazing what a little bit of standing can do for energy levels – and in turn, productivity.”
For an extra $100, get a virtual laser keyboard from Brookstone, which projects a virtual keyboard on any flat surface and can be used with Apple and Android devices.
A New Use for Law Books?
Help your partner or associate spruce up the office with some art this holiday. Indianapolis-based Derrick Method, who was featured in the Indiana Lawyer, will use your old recycled law books to make a table, a chair, or even a chandelier.
If you aren’t ready to commission a custom piece, try portalwisconsin.org, an online gallery featuring the work of Wisconsin artists.
How about a book of photography? There’s one on Amazon called “Wisconsin’s Historic Courthouses,” which includes 120 color photographs of existing Wisconsin courthouses listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Or you could get a bobble head of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy on eBay. It’s going for $800.
The Gift of Giving
Want to give back this holiday season? Don’t forget the Wisconsin Law Foundation, the charitable arm of the State Bar of Wisconsin. Donations fund grants to legal assistance and education programs throughout Wisconsin.
Fun and Games
Want to play a fun game with the whole family this holiday season?
How about a board game called LAWSUIT!™
A game for adults and children ages eight and up, players must proceed through law school, run a law practice, and bring cases. Land on certain Lawsuit spaces and you’ll be presented with a whimsical case scenario. Players must decide whether to accept the result or appeal it. Or, the player could see what happens by selecting a settlement card.
Looking to get a little more serious about your board games? Pick up an “Approach the Bench” chess set, geared towards legal professionals. The company also sells “Courtroom Holiday Ornaments,” at approachthebench.com
Treat Yourself to Healthy Living
The holidays can be a stressful time, in addition to the inherent stress that comes with work in the legal profession. So give yourself a gift this year, says Linda Albert, who manages the State Bar’s Wisconsin Lawyer Assistance Program (WisLAP).
“Lower your stress levels with exercise, sleep, and healthy habits” Albert says.
“Work combined with overindulgence may increase stress levels and lead to bigger problems.”
Need to talk with someone? Call WisLAP’s confidential support line, 24/7 at (800) 543-2625.
