The Latest Intersection of Law and Technology

You won't find this intersection of law and technology on MapQuest, but in a recent opinion from the South Carolina Supreme Court.  The court ruled that an insurance agent who used Quicken WillMaker software acted as more than "mere scrivener" when he drafted a will for his 91-year old insurance client. By choosing the form and filling in the blanks--as requested by the client-- on the computer program, the agent crossed the line into the practice of law. While it may seem unfair to some who wish to expand the reach of technology, it helps consumers understand that technology has limits when it comes to replacing human intellect and analysis. It should also remind lawyers that a large segment of the marketplace is not being served with affordable legal services, and that technology can help us to better deliver that service to consumers--service with proper legal analysis, insight and advice.