Law school preparing students for the wired and global world
As many a Michigan worker knows, the times are changing. Individuals and businesses need to acquire new skill sets to stay competitive in the 21st century. These changes have impacted not only the manufacturing industry, but the legal industry is also having to adapt to the new economy, especially as it relates to using technology and working in a global economy. To help both alumni and students beginning their academic careers better compete in the flattened world, Thomas M. Cooley Law School has expanded and restructured their career and professional development services by adding six professional advisors, all attorneys with experience in career development and placement. These advisors are placed throughout the four of Cooley's campuses in the state and will help integrate new economy principles in the classroom so that students know the importance of relationship building, presentation skills, technology and effective communication, in addition to the mastery of subject matter. Cooley Law School Associate Dean Nelson Miller points out that many economic changes have impacted the legal industry. Like other service businesses, law firms and sole practitioners have to find new way to deliver their services. "They need to be more efficient and serve a more global market. There is also more emphasis on international law and comparative law." It is not only individuals working in large firms that are faced with these pressures. Smaller firms and sole practitioners all need to better understand and utilize technology. Miller indicates there is a higher level of expectation with clients who are very tech savvy. They expect technology to be integrated in all their interactions with their law firms. Source: Interview with Nelson Miller Writer: John Rumery
