title: Evicting orang utans from the office [electronic storage of legal files]
abstract: Having espoused the principle of the paperless office some time ago, we decided to apply it to our stored files. First we consulted the Law Society rules governing storage of files on electronic media. The next step was for us to draw up a protocol for scanning the files. The benefits of the exercise have been significant. The area previously used for storage has been freed for other use. Files are now available online, instantaneously. When we have needed to send out files to the client or following a change of solicitor, we have been able to do so almost immediately, by E-mail, retaining a copy for our future reference. The files are protected from loss or deterioration, back-up copies having been taken which are stored off site. The complete stored file archive can be put in your pocket (in CD-ROM format) or on a laptop, facilitating remote working
keyphrases: electronic storage legal files paperless office Law Society rules file archive CD-ROM file scanning