On the first day of productivity, my favorite PBI blogger gave to me…

The year isn’t over yet! The holidays can be a crazy time for everyone, and some tasks might fall by the wayside while others take priority. You might notice your desk becoming a bit messier or your to-do list looking overgrown. For lawyers, this season can be equal parts chaotic or quiet, depending on your practice.

Before you take off for vacation or settle into hibernation, I have a fun challenge for you to take on before the clock strikes midnight on 2025. Feel free to treat it as a daily challenge or simply a checklist you can tackle when you’ve got the time. It’s meant to be stress-free, after all! And hopefully it will help you head into the new year feeling a little more productive and reflective.

Without further ado: The 12 Days of Productivity.

Day 1: Declutter your desk. Don’t save it for spring! Make 2026 a fresh start. Clear your workspace of files and post-it note chaos. This also means your virtual desktop as well. Remove unneeded apps, clear old desktop icons, organize client folders, and delete any downloads that are just taking up memory space. You will feel as though a weight has been lifted once you finish organizing both your physical and virtual workspaces!

Day 2: Tackle the tasks you’ve been avoiding. I hope you didn’t throw away the important post-it notes because today we are tying up the loose ends we’ve been procrastinating on. So get ready to respond to those emails, return that phone call, or schedule that overdue meeting. Whatever has been hanging over your head, it’s time to buckle down and say goodbye to it!

Day 3: Do an hour of deep work. It’s time for a digital detox. No calls, no notifications. Put everything aside and block one uninterrupted hour in your schedule for some meaningful deep work. Drafting, reviewing, writing…whatever it is, the outside world can wait.

Day 4: Do a little networking. This is the perfect time of year to reach out to others! Take time to send a thoughtful note to a mentor, referral partner, colleague, or client with a sincere message of appreciation or well wishes. Strengthening your network doesn’t require a long lunch or happy hour. A brief moment of connection can be enough!

Day 5: Five golden minutes. We love our moments of mindfulness on Raising the Bar. Today, I ask you to engage in a mere five minutes of meditation. Do some deep breathing or stretching. Even a few minutes can improve your focus and resilience. It’s especially important for lawyers to stop and breathe every so often.

Day 6: Clean out your inbox. Your desktop is looking nice and clean, but how’s that email inbox doing? Yeah…me too. Let’s start by deleting old emails and emptying out our junk bin. Create folders and archive the most important emails to achieve a new level of organization. Finally, scan through and unsubscribe from all of the junk mail that keeps finding its way to you. Today’s inbox cleanup is tomorrow’s peace of mind!

Day 7: Take a break. If you’ve made it this far, congratulations…you’re halfway through! Today’s assignment? Do less. Take a walk, sit in silence, read a book unrelated to law. Recovery is an important part of productivity—otherwise, it’s just an invitation for burnout. Now go enjoy yourself!

Day 8: Book your CLEs early! Don’t wait until you’re racing the compliance clock. We’ve got plenty of live webcasts headed your way this month and beyond, plus webcast replays that also provide live credits! If you’re in need of distance credits, then check out our on-demand library with hundreds of options in various practice areas. We’re here to make compliance as simple and stress-free as possible! So why not get a headstart? Future you will thank you.

Day 9: Delegate or automate three tasks. If that to-do list is starting to look scary, letting things go can sometimes result in more productivity than letting it sit forever. Take today to review your duties and ask yourself if anything can be automated or passed off to a trusted colleague.

Day 10: Plan ahead. Dig out that 2026 calendar and get to work! Pencil in important meetings, courtroom dates, CLEs, and those all-important vacation days. If planning out your entire year feels overwhelming, then just focus on Q1 (January through March). You’ll head into the new year feeling organized and also setting boundaries around what’s important.

Day 11: Reflect on 2025. Think of one professional challenge you faced this year. What did you learn? How did you grow from it? From there, write down three wins you had. What went well? What are you most proud of? Big or small, jot them down! Professional momentum is built on recognizing progress.

Day 12: Set a goal for 2026. It could be a new healthy habit, a micro-goal, or a big resolution! No matter what it is, keep it simple and doable. Need ideas? Then be sure to come back in two weeks for our final blog of 2025, which will be chock full of ideas for your New Year’s resolution!

If you participate in the 12 Days of Productivity, be sure to let us know on social media! We hope this blog has inspired you and has brought you a little cheer before we head into the new year. Remember, productivity isn’t just about work. It also includes rest, reflection…and the occasional gingerbread cookie.

Wishing you a peaceful, purposeful, and productive December!

Sometimes, we don’t know our limit until we reach it…and even then, we carry on. We’ve become so used to “running on empty” that it becomes the norm. Stress builds up and its consequences begin to damage our health and our lives, and we’re still none the wiser. For many busy lawyers, the debilitating effects of stress on the body isn’t just a threat—it’s a reality. Long hours, compassion fatigue, and unyielding pressure can grow to take a heavy toll on your health.

As winter closes in, it’s more important than ever that you take time to check in with both your mental and physical health. The mind and body are connected and when stress becomes chronic, it can have devastating effects on both.

If you’d like a deeper dive beyond this blog, then don’t miss “The Impact of Psychoneuroimmunology (Mind-Body Medicine) on Lawyering” on Monday, December 1. This course is the future of legal wellness! Learn all about the body’s reactions to chronic stress and gain daily exercises to prevent its negative impact. If self-care is important to you, make this CLE a priority. See you there!

Here are 8 signs that stress is having a debilitating effect on your health—but know that the list could be much longer and look different for everyone. Let’s dive in…

Cognitive fog. Our body is well-equipped to handle small doses of stress. In fact, our focus can become sharpened when stress floods the brain with cortisol. But if it goes on for too long, it can impair your memory, decrease concentration, and dull your brain’s overall functioning. That can mean missed deadlines and poor performance in the courtroom. For attorneys, whose jobs depend on precision and clarity, cognitive fog can be dangerous. You can’t afford it, especially when clients are depending on you.

Cardiovascular strain. Chronic stress has a direct link to high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and inflammation of blood vessels. The stress hormones leave you in a state of “fight or flight,” which can be useful in short, alarming situations (such as swerving to avoid a traffic collision), but devastating in the long-term. This constant state of stress raises your risk for heart attacks and strokes.

Weakened immune system. Long-term stress also weakens your immune system’s defenses, leaving you vulnerable to colds, flus, and infections. You might also find yourself less able to bounce back quickly from a sickness. This just won’t do, when your schedule is overflowing and so many are depending on you. When your immune system is down, so is your availability, your energy, and your ability to represent your clients at your best. The solution? Don’t let stress put you in that position in the first place.

Digestive distress. Our minds and hearts aren’t the only thing connected…they’re also connected to our stomachs! Chronic stress can affect your appetite (leading to over or under-eating) and your gastrointestinal system. It can cause pain, bloating, nausea, and other stomach discomforts. If you’re especially susceptible to muscle tension, it can tighten your esophagus and make swallowing food difficult.

Sleep disruption. You might pride yourself on working late into the night or rising early in the morning to tackle that workload, but it’s time to set that pride aside. You need that deep, restorative sleep in your life to truly be at your best. Otherwise, your lack of sleep can lead to stress, which can lead to insomnia or restless sleep, which ultimately results in a foggy mind and poor emotional regulation. Sleep deprivation is a silent saboteur; don’t get caught in this merciless cycle if you can help it!

Chronic pain. The body literally stores stress in muscle tension. This can easily cause headaches, among other pains. Shoulder tightness, neck pain, back aches, a clenched jaw, a furrowed brow…do you find yourself storing tension in these places right now? These are all physical manifestations of mental strain. Left untreated, they can easily become chronic pain issues that interfere with daily life and work. So take a moment to breathe. Unclench your jaw, soften your brow, stretch those shoulders, and give yourself a quick neck massage. Make sure to keep checking in with your body like this, because a little goes a long way.

Emotional disorders. Of course all of these physical symptoms are going to have an effect on your emotional well-being. Chronic stress can often lead to increased anxiety and depression. This can result in fatigue, angry outbursts, a lack of motivation, the inability to feel happiness…the list goes on. If you find that chronic stress has lead you to this point, do not be afraid to reach out for help. Lean on family and friends or speak with a therapist or healthcare provider. If you’re not sure where to start, there’s always Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, which specializes in confidential support for legal professionals.

Increased risk of long-term illnesses. Finally, and most alarmingly, chronic stress can lead to serious long-term health conditions such as autoimmune disorders, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. The longer stress goes unmanaged, the more likely it is to take root in ways that impact not just your career, but your entire future. Choosing how to respond to and manage stress is holding your very life in your hands.

How do you cope with stress? If you’re reading this and wondering, “Okay, but what do I do about it?” then you’re not alone. You’ve built your career on showing up for others, but this is your sign that you need to show up for yourself as well. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Here is a list of ways you can battle the effects of chronic stress:

• Rest. Rest is not weakness, it is necessary. The less rest you get, the worse you perform, and nobody benefits from that.
• Physical activity. Exercise is a great stress-reliever. Try to exercise every day, even if it’s as simple as a walk at lunch.
• Practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga…all excellent ways to slow down!
• Spend time with family and friends. Us humans thrive on connections with our community.
• Set aside time for hobbies. Your “me time” is important. Don’t let life revolve around work.
• Eat a healthy diet. Be sure to hydrate and don’t skip on fiber. You are what you eat!
• Don’t self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. That’s just going to invite even more problems.
• Have a sense of humor. Even when things are terribly dark, a little humor to lighten things up can ease everyone’s stress.

Understanding how stress can impact the body is the first step. Learning how to respond is the second. And with this blog post and our upcoming CLE, you’ll have already done both.

Next up: Applying what you’ve learned so that you can have a longer, healthier life—one where you can continue to leave an impact.

We’ve all been there. No matter your profession, you’ve most likely dealt with a difficult coworker at some point in your life. For lawyers, difficult people are part of the job. Opposing counsel, agitated clients, unreasonable witnesses…but what happens when the difficult person sits one desk over?

Whether it’s passive-aggressive emails, clashes between colleagues, constant interruptions, or straight up disrespect, dealing with a difficult coworker can feel like a major challenge. You’ve got enough on your plate dealing with stressful cases, long hours, and the overall high-pressure legal world. And if you’re in a supervisory role, the wrong response can lead to even bigger consequences under workplace protection laws.

So how do you handle it without escalating tension, calling your reputation into question, or drifting into a legal gray area? Let’s break it down.

But first: Employment lawyers, don’t miss our upcoming CLE, “From Policy to Practice: Managing Challenging Employee Relations Within the Framework of the NLRA and Other Workplace Protection Laws” on Wednesday, November 19. This course will dive deep into the role of the NLRA, how to address disruptive employees without crossing legal lines, balancing empathy with accountability, and much more. It’s a must for anyone who supervises others or handles workplace policy!

Avoid labels. In this day and age, people are quick to judgment and slapping down labels. If you’re in this sort of situation, resist from doing so. Focus on the behavior of the difficult coworker instead of their personality. Detach emotion from observation and zero in on the specific behavior that’s affecting your work instead of immediately writing off your coworker as “toxic” or “lazy.”

Framing your concerns objectively keeps things professional and makes your feedback more likely to be heard. It also protects you from sounding accusatory or triggering defensiveness. For example, pointing out, “In yesterday’s meeting, I noticed you interrupted me several times before I finished speaking,” might lead to a more productive conversation than saying, “Stop interrupting me, you’re always so rude and dismissive.” This could feel like an attack on their character and lead to a more aggressive confrontation. Speaking of…

Choose calm over confrontation. Collaboration is key in legal workplaces…well, every workplace, to be honest. It’s difficult to work together when there are hard feelings and sometimes it’s tempting to try to “win” the argument by getting personal. Instead, take a step back if tempers start to flare. Calm, strategic responses are what win the long game (but you already knew that didn’t you?).

Take a deep breath before responding to a rude comment. Sleep on that sassy email draft and see how you feel about it the next day. Opt for neutral language and rise above personal attacks, even if the other party doesn’t. In other words, be the lawyer you were trained to be!

Be direct, yet constructive. You’re on the same team so you likely have the same goal. A simple reminder of this might help clear the air and prevent resentment from brewing. If it’s appropriate to do so, have a one-on-one conversation with your coworker. For example, “I’ve noticed some tension between us recently and I’d like to find a way to work together more smoothly for the greater good of the team.” Be respectful, yet clear and concise. Use language that won’t put them on the defensive.

This can open the door to resolution and shows professionalism on your part. And sometimes, you’d be surprised by how many people have no idea that they’re being difficult!

Document everything. Unfortunately, there are times where calm words can only take you so far. If a coworker’s behavior crosses the line into the unacceptable—harassment, discrimination, retaliation—a paper trail is critical. Save incriminating emails. Document dates, times, and details of incidents. Take notice of witnesses who could back you up. Documentation can protect your rights and provide context if the matter escalates internally or legally.

If it comes to this, keep it on the down low. Don’t mention it to anyone except to HR or a supervisor, if needed.

Know when (and how) to escalate. If your coworker’s behavior violates firm policy, workplace laws, or creates a hostile environment, don’t hesitate to escalate appropriately (especially if you’re in a leadership role). Certain unacceptable behaviors must be escalated immediately. Before taking action, define the issue in clear, objective terms and have a record of incidents ready to back you up. Just like in court, you’ll need evidence and witnesses to back up your claim.

Before you bring the issue to HR, consider whether it’s appropriate to raise the concern with a supervisor first. If your firm or company has a certain protocol, be sure to follow it. If you’re not sure what to do, you can always consult with a trusted mentor or colleague. Just be sure to use discretion. Avoid venting or turning the issue into office gossip; keep it professional and focused on resolving the situation.

At the end of the day, this is about creating a healthy working environment. You can’t control your coworkers, but you can control how you respond to the difficulties they might raise. No matter what, always lead with professionalism, confidence, and compliance.

Ready to learn more? Register for our webcast!

For many lawyers, the word “networking” might trigger a collective groan. After all, you have enough work piled on your plate as it is without pouring more time into handshakes and happy hours. Maybe the word reminds you of the forgotten business cards piled inside your desk. Or memories of awkward conversations that feel more transactional than meaningful.

No matter how you feel about it, networking is not simply about adding to your list of contacts. It’s about cultivating relationships that support your career, expand your knowledge, and create opportunities for growth. Networking can be incredibly valuable…if done right. Whether you’re fresh out of law school or decades into your practice, developing genuine professional connections is one of the smartest moves you can make. And like any skill, it can be sharpened.

That’s why you should join PBI on November 25 for Bridge the Gap! This course is a must for new attorneys and an excellent refresher for seasoned ones. Score credits while strengthening your relationship-building toolkit. But before that, let’s break down what effective networking looks like in today’s legal world…

Understand it’s not a numbers game. A single quality relationship will get you farther than a large quantity of shallow connections that came from a quick click on LinkedIn. The key is to approach networking not as a numbers game, but as a relationship game where each one must be nurtured.

You never know where a quick chat, a shared CLE experience, or a kind word at a bar event might lead: a valuable referral, a fantastic job opportunity, a lasting mentorship, cross-practice collaboration, or support during inevitable tough times. Successful networking can lead you down many roads. Legal practice is, at its core, a people business. And your relationships won’t build themselves.

Be interested, not just interesting. We all love to talk about ourselves and what we do, but listening goes a long way. It shows interest. People will remember how you listened to what they said and how you made them feel. So don’t hesitate to take the back seat, ask thoughtful questions, and focus on the other person’s goals. Save the elevator pitches for another time, because that’s not what true networking is about.

Focus on shared experiences. CLE programs, bar association meetings, volunteer initiatives…these are all great places to meet people with common interests, all while strengthening your expertise or giving back to the community. Start with this commonality and build on that! The PBA has a number of practice-focused sections and committees, which is a powerful way to expand your network and grow your legal career. Ready to get involved? Check out the full list of PBA’s committees here!

If you’re wondering where else to start and in need of credits, check out PBI’s upcoming in-person events. Kill two birds with one stone by knocking out compliance and taking advantage of our networking opportunities all in one day!

Follow up thoughtfully. Met someone at a program who shared a great insight? Did someone from the past cross your mind during the workday? Then don’t be afraid to reach out. Thanks to technology, we’re more connected than ever. A quick note doesn’t take up much of your time and small gestures can leave strong impressions.

Want to learn more about how to follow up like a pro? Check out this past blog post.

Give before you get. Don’t just be a taker. Practice generosity when able: refer a client, share a resource, send out invites to an event. Don’t simply be a contact; be a connector. The favor will be returned in time.

Be consistent. Remember, networking isn’t a one-time event. It’s the long game. Stay in touch, stay visible, and stay engaged. Just a little extra energy channeled into networking will go a long way. So don’t hesitate to click send on that email.

Finally: Be yourself. It might sound like advice you’d hear in a kids’ movie, but it rings true throughout our lives. If you want genuine connections, you need to be your true, genuine self.

Networking is not a sales pitch. It’s a conversation and a relationship, one that grows over time and values both sides. Start small, show up, and keep it real. Genuine connections are within your reach.

When was the last time you went an entire day without googling something? Online research is part of our everyday lives and every lawyer’s workflow. It can be a godsend when you need to dig into case law, fact-check a client’s claim, or decode the latest regulation buried in a government website.

But sometimes you’ve got to dig a little bit deeper—especially since Google’s AI summaries are not always accurate as it will often “hallucinate” answers or pull the wrong information with confidence. That’s why you’ve got to rely on yourself and your skills. So here are a few tips on how to make sure your online research habits are sharp, strategic, and up to the task.

Now let’s dive in!

Don’t be afraid to scroll past the first few results. Yes, going all the way to page two can feel like entering the abyss, but it doesn’t have to. Often, those first few results are paying good money to be there, and they might not be what you’re looking for. Google focuses on clicks instead of credibility. Clicks are where the money’s at.

If you’re in the midst of legal research, don’t click on the first article you see. Instead, scroll and scan the page for trustworthy informers such as government sources (.gov), academic/legal institutions (.edu or .org), original PDFs, or policy documents. When perusing state and federal websites, be sure that it’s a publication of the law, not commentary on it.

Use advanced search features. Google has an array of built-in tools to help you level up your keyword game. Have you ever had it drop a word from your search without your permission? Add “quotation marks” to search exact phrases and keep it from doing so. If you’d like to restrict results to reputable sources as mentioned above, add “site:gov” or “site:edu” to your search.

Looking for a specific PDF? Try “filetype:pdf” to find court filings, memos, and original documents. And if you’re looking for pages with specific keywords in the title, use “intitle:” to zero in on exactly what you need. These small tweaks can help you find the sources you need instantly, without wasting billable hours sifting through pages upon pages of unhelpful search results!

Using ChatGPT? More and more legal researchers are favoring AI over typical search platforms. It tends to take on the form of a conversation, providing exactly what you need if you’re skilled enough in prompting it. If ChatGPT is your go-to for research, be sure to include plenty of context in your questions and include requests for citations and links so you can verify facts.

Don’t forget legal-specific platforms. Google is always a great starting point, but if you’re researching legal concepts, your best bet is a legal database. Our favorite is Decisis, and PBA members get it for free with their membership, saving you hundreds of dollars! State court websites are also a great resource for docket searches and court rules, and regulatory agency sites for guidance, opinions, and updates. After all, primary sources are what help win court cases.

And speaking of updates, don’t forget that PBI is always ready with fresh CLE to keep you in compliance and informed on the latest issues! See what’s coming up here!

Evaluate authority, not just content. When perusing a document, pay attention to who published it and if they are citing the actual statute/case/authority, or just paraphrasing it. Be sure to check if your source is up to date as well. No matter how well-written and informative an article might be, it’s useless if it doesn’t reflect current law.

Think like a lawyer. More and more, people are choosing to “outsource thinking” to artificial intelligence. In a few more years, the difference between those who let AI do their thinking and those who are forever learning, growing, and thinking critically might become obvious. Yes, AI is a powerful research tool, but it should not be your final source of truth.

When it comes to the law, AI can miss important nuance in legal interpretation, present outdated or incomplete info, and fail to disclose jurisdictional limits. It can also “hallucinate” information that it doesn’t know the answer to, and will make something up that’s completely inaccurate rather than admitting to the shortage in knowledge. That’s why, at the end of the day, you need to rely on your own knowledge and judgment, and do your own research!

The internet is full of noise, but with the right tools and mindset, you can still find the signal. Do your research like your license depends on it. Because in a way…it does.

For a while, multitasking has been hailed as an impressive skill that stands as a symbol of productivity. You might have even touted your ability to multitask within your resume or a job interview. It can especially feel like a badge of honor in the legal profession; switching between checking emails, drafting a motion, prepping for trial during client calls, reviewing documents…and all before lunch!

Unfortunately, our brains are not built for switching between tasks at a rapid pace. In fact, multitasking might even be having the opposite effect on productivity levels! Research shows that it can hinder memory, increase stress, and compromise decision-making—something lawyers cannot afford.

In the era of constant notifications, urgent deadlines, and never-ending to-do lists, it’s time to acknowledge that multitasking is not the golden symbol of productivity we all thought it was. Let’s find out why trying to do everything at once could be costing you clarity, credibility, and cognitive function…

The Negative Effects of Multitasking

Humans today are facing an incredible amount of mental overstimulation. Our ancestors, even a mere one hundred years ago, would baulk at the amount of information we intake in a single day. Workloads have gotten so heavy, and technology has evolved so fast, that our brains aren’t evolving fast enough to keep up. Despite what we tell ourselves, our minds are not wired for this excessive stimulation or rapid toggling between tasks.

Multitasking not only hinders productivity, but it also increases mental fatigue as you constantly shift gears. This has a negative effect on your working memory and executive function (two essentials in legal analysis). When you keep switching tasks, it’s like hitting the restart button on a computer. This type of mental reset can easily exhaust you, leading to a shorter attention span over time, reduced problem-solving ability, and decision paralysis. Think of your brain as an internet browser where too many open tabs slow down the system or causes the program to quit altogether.

Studies have shown that people who frequently multitask are more likely to overlook important details and misinterpret information. For lawyers, this could mean slower drafting, missed details, or decreased comprehension when in the courtroom or meeting with a client. A single oversight in a contract or a misread deadline can have real-world consequences for you and your clients.

The scariest part? Chronic multitasking can rewire your brain, impairing your long-term memory and ability to concentrate. That means less deep work, a shorter attention span, more mental clutter, and a diminished capacity to think strategically.

How do you fix this?

Are you seeing yourself in this article? Do you find scattered thoughts entering and leaving your head too fast? Or do you find your mind growing bored with one task after a few minutes and aching to move onto the next? If so, I’m right there with you—here’s how we can conquer our bad habits and rewire our brains.

Prioritize deep work. Block out time in your busy schedule for uninterrupted work and choose to focus on a single task. Silence your notifications, close extra browser tabs (both in your mind and on your laptop), and don’t overload your mental bandwidth. Try not to reach for your phone unless you absolutely have to, because that thing is full of distractions.

Group similar tasks. If your to-do list is looking a bit too lengthy, reorganize it by grouping similar tasks together. For example, respond to emails at designated intervals throughout the day instead of jumping into your inbox whenever you hear a ding. Group your phone calls, document reviews, or research sessions at a specific time to minimize cognitive shifting.

Practice mindfulness. If you’re an avid reader of Raising the Bar, you already know that mindfulness is merely being present in the moment. Even five minutes of mindfulness a day can retain your brain for better focus. If you’re interested in learning more, PBI offers a number of mindfulness-centered CLEs to help you be at your best.

Experiment. Do you have a secret weapon to maintain focus? If I find my multitasking mind acting up, I’ll throw my brain a little “chew toy” in the form of music. It boosts my productivity while soothing my mind. However, the music needs to be calm and without lyrics, or else it risks becoming a distraction. Experiment with what works best for you and your focus needs!

Know your limits. At the end of the day, you’re a human, not a machine. Your brain works hard, so don’t be afraid to give yourself permission to pause and recharge…and recognize that sometimes, doing one thing well is better than doing five things halfway.

And remember: Clarity wins cases!

Are you prepared to change lanes in a rapidly evolving legal landscape? Artificial intelligence has made its presence known across nearly every area of law, and auto law is no exception. From advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to self-driving vehicles, machine learning technologies are already impacting liability, insurance, enforcement, and consumer expectations.

As we close out our year-long blog series on AI’s relationship to various sectors of the law, we turn our focus to the intersection of artificial intelligence and the automotive world—a sector where innovation moves fast, and the legal implications are still catching up.

For attorneys practicing in personal injury, insurance defense, plaintiff litigation, or regulatory compliance, this is one area where staying current is critical.

Now let’s dive in…

Smart Cars and Big Questions

Would you get inside a self-driving vehicle? The truth is we’re not far off from fully autonomous driving becoming mainstream. While none are yet for sale, a few thousand are already roaming select cities for testing purposes. Some companies such as Waymo have rolled out commercial robotaxi services, too.

These AI-powered vehicles are smarter than ever and include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking in the event of a collision. Even if a car isn’t fully autonomous, AI can still be implemented in other ways to monitor the driver, tracking fatigue, speed, and location.

These advancements raise new questions for lawyers and courts. For example…who is held liable when an AI-assisted system malfunctions? The creator of AI? The manufacturer of the vehicle or the operator? How does data from a vehicle get preserved and authenticated in litigation? What role does federal and state regulation play in approving and policing this rising tech?

AI is redefining negligence, causation, and standard of care in auto-related cases—and it’s just the beginning.

A Race Between AI and the Legal System

As technology races ahead, the legal framework is still trying to keep pace. There is no single federal statute governing AI use in automobiles, and case law involving autonomous vehicles is only starting to develop. Currently, AI law resembles a patchwork quilt, varying from state to state. This means attorneys must be vigilant in watching new precedents, adapting courtroom strategies, and rethinking how evidence is gathered, interpreted, and presented.

In short: auto law is evolving, just like many other sectors, and artificial intelligence is one of the key forces behind that evolution. Whether you represent insurers, plaintiffs, or other parties in motor vehicle litigation, it’s vital to stay abreast of the issues. This is why PBI prioritizes bringing you the timeliest CLE around, so that you can stay ahead of the curve.

This blog post wraps up our series on AI’s impact across different areas of law—from business to criminal, elder law to employment. But in truth, this is just the beginning.

Artificial intelligence is moving fast. New use cases are emerging. And with every advancement comes a ripple effect across legal practice. As we look ahead, one thing is clear: lawyers who understand the legal, ethical, and technical sides of AI will be better prepared to advise their clients and shape the future of law.

Court cases aren’t quite what they used to be in this new era of social media. The legal system no longer unfolds behind closed doors. Instead, hot cases blow up into a spectacle of entertainment for the public. Trials are live streamed, details are discussed in Reddit threads, and viral TikTok theories play out on millions of screens—shared, commented on, dissected, and even distorted by self-appointed “armchair detectives.”

These amateur sleuths, coming in the form of true crime fans, social media influencers looking for content, and even everyday internet users, are reshaping how court cases (particularly criminal cases) are perceived, shared, and even investigated. Sometimes it’s helpful…sometimes it’s harmful. While some have helped shine a light on long-cold cases or stopped crime in its tracks, others have contributed to misinformation, online harassment, and even threats to fair trials.

What happens when a case spirals out of control and the entire world becomes your jury? What can you do to prevent such a thing? Let’s take a closer look at this interesting cultural phenomenon and its implications for the legal system together.

What even is an armchair detective?

To define it for you, an armchair detective is someone who investigates crime informally, often from the comfort of their own home (or armchair). The first armchair detective is considered to be Edgar Allan Poe’s fictional character of C. Auguste Dupin, who was not a professional detective and solved crimes solely through newspaper articles. In today’s world, armchair detectives mainly research crimes and court cases on the internet.

For content creators, famous court cases are like a never-ending wealth of content. YouTubers are quick to recreate crime scenes or construct minute-by-minute timelines in long-form videos. TikTokers will break down court footage into easy-to-digest clips or analyze body language of those in the courtroom. Reddit is the perfect forum for back-and-forth discussions while news and theories circulate quickly on X. Long gone are the days of reading about crimes in the newspapers; we’re more connected than ever and ordinary people are taking it upon themselves to solve these problems as if they were professionals.

As for their motives…it can range from sincere curiosity to clout-chasing for clicks. C. Auguste Dupin merely did it for his own entertainment (though money did become a motivation in a later story). The big difference is that in this day and age, everyone has a platform that gives them a voice…and sometimes those voices get extremely loud in cases that haven’t even made it to trial yet.

The Help.

Documentaries, podcasts, Netflix dramatizations…the boom in content covering true crime or celebrity court cases has turned real-world cases into binge-worthy content. No more are viewers simply consuming stories; they’ve become part of them as they take it upon themselves to conduct their own “investigations” from their couches and form their own strong opinions about guilt or innocence.

However, we can still give credit where it’s due. There have been notable moments where online communities provided valuable assistance, such as…

The Gabby Petito case: TikTok users and true crime enthusiasts helped analyze social media posts and travel footage, with one YouTuber submitting dashcam footage of Gabby Petito’s van, ultimately aiding law enforcement in locating her body.

The case of Kara Kopetsky and Jessica Runions: Internet sleuths kept this case from going cold for years until new evidence and renewed pressure contributed to an arrest.

Crowdsourced identification efforts: Sometimes, the viral spreading of news can assist in locating suspects, even with a single picture or blurry video. However, sometimes these can devolve into a witch hunt that spreads misinformation, which brings us to…

The Harm.

In high-profile cases, the tide of online speculation can quickly turn into accusations and become a sort of “trial by internet” before lawyers and judges have even had a chance to be assigned to the case.

One recent case that exploded across social media was the University of Idaho murders in 2022. As investigators worked to find the perpetrator, armchair detectives flooded social media with theories, leaked unverified information, and speculated wildly about possible suspects.

The result? Innocent people who were already traumatized from the horrible tragedy were harassed online and had their personal information leaked. False leads were amplified on mere whims, potentially slowing the real investigation. Juror impartiality became a major concern and attorneys feared that the media frenzy could impact voir dire and trial fairness as more leaks happened in the weeks leading up to the trial, despite the gag order that was in place.

While gag orders, sealed affidavits, and controlled press releases are intended to preserve trial integrity, leaks and speculation often outpace official channels, raising urgent questions about how the legal system can respond in this fast-moving digital world.

What Legal Professionals Can Do

Can a defendant get a fair trial when millions have already judged them? How should courts handle jurors who have consumed case commentary on social media? Do lawyers have an obligation to manage public perception in parallel to legal proceedings? There are no easy answers yet, but one thing is clear…our justice system must evolve to meet the realities of modern media.

If you yourself are involved in a sensitive, high-profile case or looking to prepare in the instance that happens to you, there are steps that can be taken. Be sure to educate your clients early about the risks of engaging with social media during a case. Be proactive about court orders that limit media exposure, including protective orders and gag orders. Take time to monitor social media sentiment as part of your case prep (or potential crisis management plan) to see what the public opinion might be. Jurors on the case should be screened thoroughly for prior exposure to media coverage or online speculation.

Finally, stay informed on the latest social media laws and evolving privacy issues to the best of your ability—and know that PBI strives to do just that by bringing you timely CLE that covers subjects important to you.

The rise of the armchair detective reflects a shift in society and a truth: people no longer want to watch. They want to participate. For better or worse, this has had an effect on the justice system, where courtrooms collide with comment sections and legal facts face off with viral videos.

For attorneys, that means entering into uncharted waters. As technology continues to evolve and new platforms emerge, the legal profession will need to stay agile, ethical, and vigilant to have a chance of keeping up.

After all, the jury is still out on where we go from here.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping corporate practices. Have you been paying attention, business lawyers?

AI is no longer a niche topic for startups and technologists. From boardrooms to back offices, AI is changing how businesses operate, analyze, and compete…but with every breakthrough comes a new wave of legal implications.

For business lawyers, AI presents an unprecedented challenge: how to counsel clients in a world where the rules are evolving as fast as the technology. Because staying informed is no longer optional; it’s essential.

Now read on to find out just how exactly AI and business law intersect…

What AI Means for Today’s Businesses

Despite the technology not yet being perfected, AI is already being used to streamline hiring, enhance customer service, predict market trends, automate contract review, and even draft investment memos. But these efficiencies come bundled with new legal risks.

One of the biggest concerns is data privacy and cybersecurity. After all, AI is trained on existing data. How ethical is it to use someone’s data in order to train this new technology? Through this existing data, AI has already picked up patterns of bias and discrimination in its algorithmic decision-making. Should it really be used for such things when it already hosts so many imperfections? Who is liable when AI tools fail or misfire?

Many businesses are also choosing to save money on assets by using AI to generate imagery and advertising, raising the question…who owns the IP when AI generates the content? Many consumers view this unfavorably since it takes jobs away from artists and other creatives. These are just a few of the major issues raised by the presence of AI within the corporate world.

Business lawyers are now on the front lines of interpreting, negotiating, and future-proofing deals and policies that involve artificial intelligence. And the questions are only getting more complex. It’s your duty to stay on top of this evolving technology so that you can be prepared for anything.

The New Legal Skillset

It’s no longer enough to be fluent in Delaware corporate law or UCC provisions. Today’s business lawyers must also understand the basic architecture of AI systems, be able spot AI-related risks in commercial transactions, and advise clients on ethical and compliance frameworks. They say knowing is half the battle, and knowing what questions to ask when reviewing contracts or assessing regulatory exposure will get you far. From there, you’ll be able to guide your clients more effectively.

The world isn’t trying to turn you into a software engineer—just a more knowledgeable legal advisor. Automated decisions carry especially high stakes in sectors like healthcare, finance, or employment, and it’s your duty to prepare for all of it.

If navigating a patchwork of shifting AI regulations all while staying current on the latest laws is intimidating for you, have no fear. That’s what PBI is here for. We strive to bring you the timeliest topics so that you can stay at the forefront of these emerging developments.

The Future is Now

AI isn’t coming. It’s already here. And it’s transforming every aspect of the business world, including the legal frameworks that govern it. Smart lawyers aren’t just watching from the sidelines—they’re engaging with the technology, advising clients thoughtfully, and preparing for what’s next.

PBI is proud to declare that we have once again taken gold in The Legal Intelligencer’s “Best Of” 2025! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who voted for us. We’re proud to continue serving as your #1 CLE provider and ensuring you score compliance year after year.

With this victory in our pocket, now seems the perfect time to take a peek behind the curtain! Behind every CLE program at PBI is a team of attorneys, program managers, tech specialists, customer service representatives, and marketers working together to make sure the continuing legal education you rely on is not only compliant, but compelling.

If you’ve ever wondered how your favorite CLE comes to life, look no further. Read on to discover our process, from start to finish!

Phase 1: The Spark. Every great CLE starts with a conversation. Our program managers stay in close contact with attorneys and legal organizations across Pennsylvania, tracking hot topics, new case law, emerging practices, rising technologies, and most importantly, what lawyers need to know to serve their clients. A quality CLE can arise from a recent court ruling or a timely trend such as developments in AI, remote work, or mindfulness. Or tried-and-true topics could be targeted towards a new generation of attorneys (such as our Bridge the Gap program) to introduce them to the fundamentals.

We’re also always ready to listen if you have an idea of your own. If you’re interested in being a speaker or have a suggestion for a course, feel free to fill out and submit this form. We welcome all suggestions.

Phase 2: The Creation. Once a course has been greenlit, the real work begins. Our program managers work closely with faculty (respected practitioners, judges, and subject matter experts) to design a program that will serve you. They’ll schedule the course, invite any additional speakers, and finalize sessions. They also work with the American Bar Association to determine how many credits a course will be worth by submitting a timed agenda and course materials. It’s a great deal of back and forth with a number of parties. Every program is built with intentional pacing, relevant materials, and practical takeaways.

After the details have been locked in, it goes live on our website. Now that it’s open for registration, the marketing team jumps into action. We can now advertise the course through email and social media campaigns, PBA newsletters, and more, ensuring the news of this course reaches you.

Phase 3: The Execution. Whether it’s a live webcast or an in-person event, our team is ready to serve once the time arrives! Our customer experience team will assist if you encounter any problems or have questions. Our web team monitors the quality of streams and ensures everything is running smoothly. Our audio-video engineers focus on recording and turning the course around for our on-demand library.

While you focus on learning, PBI has many moving parts behind the scenes, making sure you have an educational and flawless CLE experience every time!

Phase 4: The Aftermath. Though the screen has faded to black, the end is not yet here! You already know it’s not over until you submit your credits. Meanwhile, we prepare these webcasts to become on-demand offerings, which are available for two years to stay relevant. If you missed an Institute, we make the reading materials available for purchase in our e-book library.

PBI is like a butterfly room, filled with 50-60 butterflies in various stages of their life cycle at any given point. We are constantly nurturing each “butterfly” to grow to its full potential! And just like our courses, we too are evolving over time. We’ve not only embraced a new website, but we’ve also grown into a model that now allows us to cater to attorneys across the country beyond Pennsylvania.

It’s no small thing to be named the best CLE provider. We’re honored, grateful, and motivated to keep raising the bar! After all, better lawyers build a better legal system. We’re proud to help you not just meet your credit requirements, but to also grow in your practice and exceed your own expectations.

Ready to find your next favorite course? Check out what’s coming up here and we’ll see you at the next CLE!

Now that you’ve mastered the ins and outs of networking on LinkedIn, it’s time to address another cornerstone of the legal world: the referral.

A well-placed referral is a powerful move for lawyers, but there’s an art to it. Knowing when and how to refer a client can be just as important as knowing how to represent one. After all, this is a profession defined by expertise and relationships. Whether you’re a solo practitioner with a niche practice or part of a larger firm with built-in resources, referrals are more than professional courtesy—they’re a strategic skill. When done thoughtfully, referrals strengthen your reputation, support your clients, and grow your network.

Read on to find out how you can build a referral strategy that’s thoughtful, ethical, and mutually beneficial, all while positioning yourself as a trusted resource in the legal community!

Timing is everything. The first step is knowing when it’s time to refer. Referrals often come up when a client’s need extends beyond your scope and the wise thing to do is to refer them to someone who can better serve their needs. However, the need can also arise when there’s a conflict of interest, a particular matter lies outside your jurisdiction, or you are dealing with capacity issues, and you simply don’t have the time to do it well.

The key? Recognizing when the right move is to send the client elsewhere and having the professionalism to make that call.

Build a reliable network. You can’t refer a client to anyone unless you have a go-to list of trustworthy attorneys who would do the same for you. When building your network, take time to forge relationships with attorneys who specialize in areas you don’t. It would also be wise to bond with those who share your values, ethics, and client approach. They should have a reputation for responsiveness and professionalism. In the era of cancel culture, making friends with the wrong people can come back to bite you.

Keep in mind that networking isn’t about quantity; it’s about quality. A few deep relationships will serve you better than many shallow ones. And try to be proactive. Build referral relationships before you need them so you don’t wind up scrambling or taking shots in the dark.

Loop everyone in. Communication is everything! Referrals require clear, timely communication that involves everyone. This will help avoid misunderstandings or ethical slip-ups. If you have to make a referral, make sure you tell the client why you’re doing so and reassure them that it’s in their best interest. Confirm availability with the referred attorney before passing along client contact information. Finally, follow up to ensure everything is going smoothly for the client.

If a referral fee is involved, make sure it’s disclosed and complies with the Rules of Professional Conduct.

Know it’s a two-way street. Strong referral relationships are built on reciprocity and trust; it’s not always going to be an “I scratch your back, you scratch mine” deal. Don’t try to keep score on who has referred more clients because that’s a recipe for resentment.

Instead, maintain your professionalism. Thank your referral sources and refer clients only when you believe the match is right—not out of obligation. Over time, your reputation as a helpful and ethical connector will do more for your practice than any direct marketing effort.

Stay in your lane. You know where your expertise lies. Many lawyers fear losing business by referring it away, but the truth is, thoughtful references will strengthen your brand. Clients appreciate transparency, honesty, and knowing that they are in the right hands.

You can also use referrals to refine your own practice by narrowing your focus, working more efficiently, and building a client base that aligns with your strengths. In short, referrals free you up to do your absolute best work!

Keep learning. Not sure who to refer to or how to start building your network? Look no further than PBI CLE! Our quality courses will introduce you to talented faculty in various practice areas, expose you to emerging issues, and keep you in compliance. Our in-person events are especially great for networking—check out what’s coming up here!

Remember: Referring a matter isn’t a sign of weakness…it’s a sign of integrity. And in a profession built on trust, the lawyers who give great referrals are the ones who get great referrals. Done well, a single referral can strengthen a client relationship, grow your network, and elevate your standing in the legal community.

That’s the art of the referral—something every attorney should master.

Your online profile is more powerful than you think.

In a profession built on reputation, relationships, and staying ahead of the curve, it’s no surprise that more and more attorneys are turning to LinkedIn—not just as a digital resume, but as a tool for networking, visibility, and of course, the latest updates on continuing legal education.

Whether you’re an associate building your business, a partner looking for referral sources, or in-house counsel tracking regulatory shifts, LinkedIn can help you do your job better—and grow your professional network while you’re at it.

Read on to find out how you can make the most of LinkedIn...and don’t forget to follow PBI so you can stay up to date on all the latest CLE offerings!

Stay informed. LinkedIn isn’t just for job hunters. It’s the only social media platform designed specifically for professionals—and that includes legal professionals. LinkedIn has become a top source for legal news, industry insights, and case updates. From regulatory changes to high-profile rulings, you can tailor your feed to follow the issues and experts that matter most to your practice.

Not sure where to start? Give the ABA or PBA a follow to keep your feed relevant and informative!

Build a strong professional presence. If a potential client is searching up your name, your LinkedIn profile might be one of the first results. Make a good first impression by creating a top-notch profile. Upload a professional headshot and write a clear headline listing your practice areas or achievements. Share posts that reflect your interests and values in order to further fill out your profile. When working on your profile, avoid legalese and keep your potential clients in mind, tailoring it to them.

Your profile doesn’t have to mirror your resume or sound like a sales pitch. Simply use it to tell your story in a clear, concise way.

Network without the nametag. Don’t have time to attend every bar event or conference? LinkedIn helps you stay visible in your legal community without ever leaving your desk. In this virtual world you can easily reconnect with law school classmates, engage with fellow attorneys, follow legal recruiters or potential mentors, and follow up with previous encounters met at networking events or conventions.

Relationships are still everything in law—LinkedIn just gives you a new place to build them. All of these connections are just a click and a message away!

Share what you know. LinkedIn is an easy way to showcase your expertise and keep your name top-of-mind. Whether you post a brief summary of a recent ruling, offer practical insights for clients, or reshare a CLE you’re attending, every post helps build your credibility.

Don’t consider yourself a writer? No problem! You can always react to someone’s post, leave a thoughtful comment, or share articles with a one-liner about why they matter. Over time, your activity will build an impressive profile of thought leadership. The algorithm will also learn more about what you like to see and tailor your feed to match!

Follow PBI! You already know we bring you the timeliest topics and most important legal updates, presented by knowledgeable faculty. So stay ahead of the curve by following us on LinkedIn! We regularly highlight upcoming courses and share insightful blog posts to keep you at the top of your game and ahead of compliance. Follow us so that you never miss a beat!