Today’s law firms are balancing more than just caseloads. They’re managing cybersecurity risks, evolving compliance obligations and the growing expectation for remote access, all with limited internal resources. For small- and midsize firms, the question isn’t whether to modernize IT. It’s how to do it in a way that supports both the practice and the business of law.
A cloud-based desktop solution designed for legal workflows can make that shift far more practical, especially when it’s tailored to the way law firms actually work.
Built for the Way Legal Teams Operate
Law firms aren’t like other businesses. They rely on specialized tools, manage high volumes of confidential documents and face strict regulatory oversight. That creates a unique IT environment where general-purpose solutions often fall short.
Legal-specific platforms are designed to support applications like NetDocuments, Time Matters, ProLaw and iManage, helping eliminate compatibility issues that can disrupt workflow. The result is a more stable, streamlined experience across the firm.
Security and Compliance Without the Guesswork
Cyber threats are no longer hypothetical. In 2024, the ABA TechReport on Cybersecurity found that phishing and ransomware remain top concerns, yet only about 60% of firms have implemented formal cybersecurity policies. For firms without specialized IT or security staff, staying ahead of these risks is an ongoing challenge.
Cloud-based environments with built-in protections — like multi-factor authentication, encryption and proactive threat detection — can help firms align with ABA, HIPAA and state bar expectations without having to build complex systems from scratch.
Remote Access That Doesn’t Compromise Control
Whether attorneys are in court, at a client site or working from home, they need consistent access to their files, apps and communication tools. According to the ABA’s 2024 Cloud Computing Report, more than 73% of law firms now use cloud-based tools, with hybrid work playing a major role in driving that shift.
Secure, centralized desktop access helps firms meet these demands without relying on risky workarounds or disconnected tools that increase liability.
Less Time on IT, More Time on Legal Work
Small and midsize firms often operate without dedicated internal IT staff, relying instead on outside consultants or part-time support. According to the ABA TechReport on Solo & Small Firm Technology, many firms still manage technology decisions and troubleshooting internally, often by attorneys or administrators wearing multiple hats.
This approach creates risk and distraction, especially as cybersecurity and compliance requirements grow more complex. Offloading core IT tasks like patching, backups and system maintenance allows attorneys and staff to focus on serving clients, not managing infrastructure.
Technology That Scales With Your Firm
Growth should be an opportunity, not a logistical headache. Whether you’re expanding into new practice areas, onboarding new attorneys or opening additional offices, cloud-based platforms make it easier to scale IT infrastructure without investing in new hardware or disruptive overhauls.
This flexibility allows firm leaders to move quickly and stay focused on long-term strategy, not system limitations.
Budget Clarity
Unpredictable IT expenses can create budgeting headaches, especially for firms that rely on break-fix models or patchwork solutions. While many midsize firms have begun formalizing their tech budgets, inconsistent planning still leads to reactive decisions and unplanned spend.
A cloud-based desktop model with fixed monthly pricing helps firms take control of their IT budgets, reduce financial surprises and invest more confidently in long-term growth.
Making IT Work for Your Firm
For small- and midsize law firms, IT can either slow you down or help you move smarter. A managed cloud desktop solution purpose-built for legal work offers a secure, scalable and cost-effective path forward — without putting more on your team’s plate. It’s not about adding more tech. It’s about making IT work the way law firms actually need it to.
At Afinety, we understand that every law firm has unique needs. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized IT solutions that align with your firm’s specific goals and challenges. We’d be honored to discuss how we can support your practice.