E-messaging suite for torts
Ensuring secure communication with its clients motivated Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer's deployment of e-mail encryption services from ZixIt.
The New Jersey law firm is using ZixVPM network-based encryption with ZixMail desktop encryption to create a more secure messaging channel with its clients. That way the firm can confidently exchange legal documents electronically and eliminate the need to charge clients for overnight or courier services, according to a recent press release from ZixIt. Attorneys, paralegals and support staff can use their existing e-mail software to send documents and information, while the new software automatically encrypts messages containing confidential information according to preset policies established by the law firm.
Says Anthony J. Pannell, partner at Wilentz, "Many law offices have attempted to address unprotected e-mail liability issues by including a disclaimer at the end of every e-mail, but we question the ultimate enforceability of such after-the-fact disclaimers. The only effective way to protect your clients and yourself against potential liability and deliver the best client service is to utilize secure e-messaging."
The new system is said to allow private e-messaging of a variety of legal documents and information, including pre-trial rate case data for public utilities clients, limited distribution equity and debt disclosure documents for corporate clients and confidential government information for public entity clients.
Secure e-messaging will also be used by the firm in its mass tort and personal injury plaintiff practices, allowing attorneys and staff to communicate with clients, doctors and insurance companies about patient medical records. In that context, the new system enables Wilentz to comply with mandates of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 regarding encrypting electronically transmitted medical data.