For the first time in over 20 years, the June issue of New Jersey Lawyer, a publication of the New Jersey State Bar Association, is dedicated to technology. And as special editors Dawn Monsen Lamparello and Reka Bala point out, the subject has become more relevant than ever as the legal world had to rapidly adapt and embrace technology in new ways during the coronavirus pandemic.

"The world has shifted, and our profession has been forced to adjust to continue to serve the critical needs of the public and our clients…. These issues continue to evolve and expand, and perhaps change, as a result of the current circumstances," the special editors wrote.

The magazine kicks off with an article on how the New Jersey court system quickly transformed into a virtual operation after in-person court matters were no longer possible as COVID-19 gripped the state.

In one week, the Judiciary went from having 21 virtual courtrooms to 300 virtual courtrooms for routine court matters that could be simultaneously streamed live to the public. And staff in the 15 vicinages have been working to get tens of thousands of attorneys trained in the virtual platforms the Judiciary uses.

The magazine also takes a look at data privacy and ethical obligations in the event of a data breach; blockchain technology and what it means to the practice of law; facial recognition and the law; big data and marketing; electric vehicle marketing; and autonomous vehicles and municipal courts. Readers will also find a number of articles on practice tips, such as how to use electronic reminders in Outlook to boost productivity.

NJSBA members can read New Jersey Lawyer under the members section tab at njsba.com.