Notes To My (Legal) Self

In this episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, join experts Humira Noorestani and Kassi Burns as they navigate the complex world of AI governance and risk management. As AI becomes an integral part of our daily lives, understanding its implications is crucial, especially for in-house legal teams. This session unpacks the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF), a key tool in shaping ethical AI practices and setting industry standards. Unlike the stringent legal requirements of the EU AI Act, the NIST AI RMF offers a voluntary, adaptable approach, emphasizing trust, innovation, and effective risk mitigation. You'll learn how to use this framework to manage AI risks effectively within your organization. Humira and Kassi delve into what an AI audit entails, discussing the triggers for conducting one, such as security breaches, regulatory requirements, and periodic reviews. They also explore the significance of New York City's Local Law 144, which mandates independent AI audits for automated employment decision tools, ensuring fairness and transparency in hiring processes. The conversation then shifts to the NIST AI RMF, highlighting its four core elements: governance, mapping, measurement, and management. These elements serve as a roadmap for organizations to understand and mitigate AI risks. They stress the importance of starting with AI mapping to identify and categorize AI systems, which is the first step in conducting comprehensive audits. For in-house legal teams, understanding and implementing these frameworks is vital. The speakers emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach, involving various stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability. They also share practical tips on maintaining detailed documentation and engaging in continuous learning to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field. By the end of this episode, you will: Understand the structure and significance of the NIST AI RMF in managing AI risks. Learn actionable strategies for conducting AI audits and developing robust AI governance policies. Explore the future of AI governance and its impact on legal practices, gaining insights into how to stay informed and adaptable. Whether you're a legal professional, tech enthusiast, or simply curious about AI governance, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from leading experts and prepare your organization for the future of AI.

Ever wondered how to stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of corporate law? Tune in to an eye-opening episode with the innovative Peter Connor, Founder & CEO of AlternativelyLegal, as he delves into "The Future of In-House Legal Mastery: Becoming a T-Shaped Lawyer." Peter introduces a transformative approach that redefines success and effectiveness for in-house lawyers, general counsels, and legal departments. He demystifies the 'dark art' of legal practice, revealing what elevates some legal professionals above their peers in corporate environments and law firms. Peter shares his extensive experience, highlighting the T-Shaped Lawyer Framework™, which combines deep legal expertise with broad business and technological skills. This framework helps legal professionals develop a balanced skill set, ensuring they remain competitive and effective in their roles. Discover practical knowledge from Peter's journey, including insights from his latest book, "The T-Shaped Lawyer: A New Vision for You and Your Work." Join us to explore how becoming a T-Shaped Lawyer can significantly advance your career. Peter explains how embracing this framework equips you to navigate the evolving landscape of corporate law, making you more adaptable and resilient in the face of discontinuous change. He offers actionable advice for lawyers at every career stage, from junior associates to senior leaders, on how to implement business partnering and leadership to add immense value to their organizations. In this engaging, fun, and educational episode, you’ll gain: Insights into the T-Shaped Lawyer concept and its importance. Practical steps to develop a T-shaped skill set and mindset. Strategies for providing business input and advice alongside legal expertise. Examples of how to engage in business partnering and leadership. The significance of aligning personal vision with professional goals. Peter’s approach not only prepares you for the future of law but also empowers you to excel and add significant value in your role. Whether you're just starting your legal career or are a seasoned professional, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to thrive in the dynamic world of corporate law. Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your approach and become a T-Shaped Lawyer.

In this episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, you’ll dive into the future of justice as we sit down with Judge Scott U. Schlegel, a trailblazer in integrating artificial intelligence into legal proceedings. With a career marked by innovation and a dedication to improving the justice system, Judge Schlegel shares his insights on how AI is transforming the courtroom, from digitizing court calendars to potentially reshaping how justice is served. Discover how Judge Schlegel's journey began, transitioning from a prosecutor to a judge determined to modernize the legal process. Hear firsthand about his early challenges and successes in implementing technology to streamline court operations. You’ll learn about the crucial role AI can play in reducing backlogs and improving access to justice, making the legal system more efficient and effective for everyone. Judge Schlegel also delves into the ethical and practical implications of AI in the courtroom, highlighting the balance between embracing technology and maintaining fairness. You’ll explore the fascinating yet concerning realm of deepfakes, understanding the potential risks they pose in legal settings and the measures needed to authenticate evidence reliably. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the complexities of consensus-building among various legal stakeholders. Judge Schlegel offers practical advice for legal professionals on how to start integrating AI into their practices responsibly. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and experimentation with AI tools, urging you to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with technological advancements. By the end of this episode, you will: Understand how AI is currently being used to improve efficiency and access to justice in courtrooms. Recognize the ethical considerations and practical challenges of implementing AI in the legal system. Be aware of the potential risks associated with deepfake technology in legal proceedings and the importance of robust evidence authentication. Gain practical insights on how to start integrating AI into your legal practice responsibly, fostering innovation while upholding ethical standards. Join us for this engaging, thought-provoking discussion with Judge Scott U. Schlegel and take a step into the future of justice. Embrace the possibilities and prepare to be inspired by the transformative power of AI in the legal world.

Did you know that the legal ecosystem is as unpredictable as the weather? One day it's sunny, and the next, there's a new opportunity cloud on the horizon. In this latest episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, we explore this dynamic landscape with Adam Becker, Director of Legal Operations at Cockroach Labs and a proud CLOC Board Member. When Adam graduated from law school, the roles he excels in today didn't even exist! Adam's journey is a testament to the unpredictability and evolution of the legal field. He emphasizes that thriving in legal operations isn't just about chasing the next big thing; it's about introspection, understanding your passions, recognizing your strengths, and being in tune with your personal evolution. Adam shares his insights on foreseeing the future for Legal Operations leaders and staying two steps ahead, with a sprinkle of calculated risk-taking to add that extra zing. Through this engaging conversation, you'll discover the importance of understanding your own career trajectory. Adam's mantra revolves around the idea that your career isn't just defined by your current role but by the people you surround yourself with, the wisdom you soak up on the job, and the connections you nurture in your professional circle. Adam began his career in big law as an associate before transitioning to the "other side" of the firm as a global recruiting manager and later as a professional development leader. This diverse background provided him with a unique perspective that he carried into his in-house roles, first at MetLife and then in the entertainment industry. Now, at Cockroach Labs, Adam is pioneering legal operations in a tech startup environment, showing how adaptable and forward-thinking legal ops can be. His story underscores the importance of curiosity and flexibility in a constantly changing field. Adam's move from practicing law to focusing on legal operations was driven by his interest in the business side of legal practice and his desire to solve problems in innovative ways. He emphasizes that success in legal ops requires a blend of curiosity, organizational skills, and the ability to work well with people from various backgrounds. Key Takeaways: Be Curious: Curiosity is crucial in legal operations. It drives you to understand how things work, why they work that way, and how they can be improved. This trait helps you stay ahead in a field that is always evolving. Embrace Change: The legal landscape is dynamic. Embracing change and being willing to take risks can open up new opportunities and paths that you might not have considered before. Build a Strong Network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of peers, mentors, and advisors. These connections can provide valuable insights, feedback, and opportunities that will help you grow in your career. Tune in to learn how to embrace the unpredictability of the legal world and turn it to your advantage. This episode promises to be fun, educational, and a game-changer for anyone looking to thrive in legal operations.

Step into the intricate world of AI risk management with Kassi Burns and Olga Mack as they unpack the complexities of the EU AI Act. In this episode, we delve deep into the criteria that categorize AI systems into high and mid-level risks and the significant implications these categorizations have on AI development and deployment. Join us as we explore: AI Risk Assessment: Understand how AI systems are classified into high and mid-level risks. Real-World Impact: Discover real-world examples and case studies illustrating how AI applications across various industries fit into these risk categories. Balancing Innovation and Ethics: Learn about the delicate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring ethical AI use within the framework of these risk categorizations. Global Implications: Examine how the EU’s stance on AI risk levels might shape future AI policies and industry standards globally. Strategic Navigation: Uncover strategies for navigating the complexities of AI ethics and compliance. Meet the Experts: Kassi Burns and Olga Mack Kassi Burns, with her extensive operational focus, and Olga Mack, renowned for her expertise in innovation and compliance, come together to shed light on the EU AI Act. They share their perspectives on the impact of this regulation on both large enterprises with comprehensive compliance departments and smaller, innovative companies that often face unique challenges in risk management. Conversation Highlights Kassi and Olga discuss the intricacies of the EU AI Act, emphasizing the importance of transparency and consumer awareness in AI applications. They address the challenges faced by smaller, innovative companies in navigating mid-level risk categories and the potential pushback from various stakeholders. The conversation also touches on the regulatory landscape, with insights into the FTC’s role in the U.S. and how it might influence global AI policies. Kassi shares her operational perspective, highlighting the importance of understanding how AI systems are used within organizations, while Olga provides insights into the consumer-facing aspects of AI and the significance of transparency in maintaining trust and compliance. They discuss the potential for innovation in compliance tools and the evolving nature of AI regulation. Learning Outcomes By the end of this episode, you will: Gain a thorough understanding of the EU AI Act’s high and mid-level risk categorizations and their implications. Learn practical examples of AI applications within these risk categories and their impact on society and business. Explore strategies for balancing innovation and ethical AI use, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. Understand the potential global impact of the EU AI Act and how it might influence AI policy and industry standards worldwide. Discover the challenges and opportunities for smaller, innovative companies in navigating AI risks. Kassi and Olga emphasize the importance of staying informed and proactive in addressing AI risks, encouraging listeners to engage with the AI community and share their insights and experiences. Join us for this insightful episode and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of AI risks and regulations!

Ever felt like your career path is more of a 'Choose Your Own Adventure' book than a straight line? In this episode of Notes to my Legal Self, we delve into the fascinating journey of Flavia Naves and how she transformed her LLB into a thriving legal career in the United States. Picture this: You've aced your Bar Exam, conquered legal battles in your home country, and now you're ready to tackle the US legal market with your LLM. But your impressive resume doesn't quite fit the traditional JD mold. Sound familiar? The big takeaway: Your international legal background isn't just a piece of paper—it's a treasure trove of global insights and cross-cultural expertise. The American legal landscape isn't just ready for you; it needs you. Flavia Naves, a dual-trained powerhouse attorney from Brazil and the US, shares her inspiring journey of breaking barriers and rebuilding bridges for foreign-trained attorneys in the US market. In this candid conversation, you'll learn how to spot and seize unconventional opportunities that others might overlook. Flavia reveals the art of pivoting, turning roadblocks into stepping stones, and how chasing your North Star is more rewarding than listening to the naysayers. Discover the "language" of the US legal market and how to become fluent, master networking strategies that turn cold contacts into warm allies, and understand the power of your unique story in building a standout brand. Join us for an engaging, fun, and educational episode that promises to transform your approach to a legal career in the USA. Flavia's journey started in Brazil, where she interned at a law firm specializing in international transactions, inspired by Brazil's privatization of public utilities. This led her to pursue further legal studies in the US, choosing Pennsylvania for its proximity to her host family. Despite the hurdles, such as adapting to the US Bar system's state-specific requirements, Flavia's perseverance paid off. She found unexpected opportunities, like clerking for a judge in Pennsylvania, which significantly boosted her career credibility. Flavia's move to California marked a pivotal point, where she navigated the complex terrain of registering as in-house counsel and eventually taking the California Bar. Her advice to foreign-trained attorneys is to find what differentiates you from others—whether it's cultural, linguistic, or specialized training—and leverage that uniqueness. Flexibility and an open mind are key to navigating a non-linear career path. Flavia's story emphasizes the importance of not letting anyone else dictate your career. Persevere, be flexible, and aim for your North Star, no matter how unconventional the path may be. Key Takeaways: Recognize Your Unique Value: Your international background is a strength. Use your unique skills and experiences to stand out in the US legal market. Networking: Build and maintain relationships, not just within the legal field but across various industries. Your network can open doors and create opportunities. Flexibility and Persistence: Be open to unconventional paths and persist despite setbacks. Every experience, even unexpected ones like clerkships, can be a valuable stepping stone. Don't miss this insightful episode that will inspire you to take charge of your career and navigate the US legal landscape with confidence and creativity.

Step into the dynamic world of AI and the law with Mitch Jackson, Esq., a renowned legal expert, in this enlightening episode. As AI continues to revolutionize various industries, understanding the legal landscape becomes crucial. Mitch Jackson breaks down the "Top 10 Legal Guidelines in AI" to help you navigate this evolving field effectively. In this episode, Mitch shares valuable insights into the intersection of AI and legal considerations, covering: Legal Landscape of AI: Discover the key legal aspects of AI, including intellectual property, data privacy, and emerging technologies. Strategic Navigation: Learn strategies for overcoming legal challenges and maximizing opportunities in the AI space. Expert Insights: Benefit from Mitch Jackson’s extensive experience in bridging the gap between law and technology. Special Features Dive into real-world legal scenarios and their implications in the AI realm. Mitch also offers a glimpse into the future of AI regulation and its potential impact on businesses and individuals. Teaser Questions How do you anticipate the legal landscape of AI evolving in the coming years? What steps can businesses take to ensure compliance and mitigate legal risks in AI ventures? Meet the Expert: Mitch Jackson, Esq. With over three decades of experience as a trial lawyer and now a full-time private mediator, Mitch Jackson has been at the forefront of integrating technology into legal practice. He has guided countless startups from inception to successful outcomes, always staying ahead of technological trends. Mitch’s passion for technology, combined with his legal expertise, makes him a sought-after advisor for businesses navigating the complex world of AI. Conversation Highlights Mitch Jackson shares his journey from a traditional law practice to becoming a leading voice in tech law. He discusses the transformative power of AI and its potential to reshape various industries, emphasizing the importance of understanding and leveraging AI responsibly. Mitch delves into the top legal pitfalls, such as intellectual property issues, data privacy concerns, and liability risks, offering practical advice for businesses and legal professionals alike. He also sheds light on the evolving regulatory landscape, including the implications of the EU AI Act, the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), and the Biden executive orders. Mitch underscores the need for companies to stay informed and proactive in addressing these legal challenges. Learning Outcomes By tuning into this episode, you will: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the legal issues surrounding AI, including intellectual property, data privacy, and liability. Learn actionable strategies to navigate legal challenges and leverage AI effectively in your business. Understand the importance of due diligence in using AI-generated content and the potential risks of intellectual property violations. Explore the regulatory trends shaping the future of AI and how they impact businesses and legal practice. Mitch Jackson emphasizes the importance of keeping an open mind and staying informed about AI advancements. He encourages you to follow leaders in the AI space, engage with the community, and leverage the technology responsibly to enhance your business and legal practices. Join us for this insightful episode and empower yourself with the knowledge to navigate the legal complexities of AI!

Ever wonder about the untold stories behind the successes of legal professionals? The latest episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self dives deep into the hidden battles fought by lawyers every day. While many firms promote feel-good solutions and organize "are you ok" days, the stark reality is that numerous legal professionals continue to struggle with mental health issues in silence. In this episode, Mariette Clardy-Davis, AVP Assistant General Counsel, Mental Health Storyteller for Lawyers, and a multi-disciplinary creative force, shares her personal journey with bipolar depression, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into the challenges she faces and how she transforms her struggle into a source of strength. Her story resonates deeply, highlighting the often-overlooked mental health issues within the legal profession. Mariette reveals the single most impactful strategy for improving mental well-being among lawyers, both in their professional and personal lives. Through her experiences, she underscores the importance of acknowledging mental health struggles and fostering a supportive environment in the workplace. From the start, Mariette introduces herself as an in-house counsel at Primerica, focusing on securities business. She traces her unique journey to her current role, beginning in consulting and solo practice, which provided her with diverse experiences in mental health representation, estate planning, and emerging fields like Web3 and blockchain. Delving into her advocacy, Mariette describes her diagnosis with bipolar depression at 21 and the years she spent suffering in silence. Her turning point came after two intensive outpatient treatments, which spurred her to share her story on social media, receiving overwhelming support and private messages from others who related to her struggles. Mariette highlights the importance of creating a safe environment in the workplace where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health. As a manager, she advises listening more and speaking less, using open-ended questions, and being knowledgeable about available resources and support systems. The conversation also covers practical tips for managers on identifying when an employee might need help, ensuring they feel safe, and how to offer support without infringing on privacy. Mariette emphasizes the significance of having resources and tools on hand, as people in crisis often cannot seek them out. Mariette also discusses her initiatives, ML Clardy LLC and The Peak: A Doorway into Wellness newsletter, aimed at providing ongoing mental health support and resources for lawyers. The newsletter offers quick-start actions and tools to help attorneys manage their mental health effectively. In the closing moments, Mariette reflects on the power of storytelling in de-stigmatizing mental health issues. She sees herself as a bridge-builder, connecting people through her stories and providing resources and support to those who need it. Her ultimate message is to find what works for you, using the lessons from her story to build your unique path. By tuning into this episode, you gain valuable insights into the importance of mental health awareness in the legal field, learn practical approaches to support your well-being, and discover how to create a more empathetic and supportive legal community. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that promises to change the way you perceive mental health in the legal profession.

Dive into the thrilling world of artificial intelligence and data privacy with Debbie Reynolds, famously known as "The Data Diva." In this episode, we explore the critical balance between technological innovation and safeguarding individual privacy rights. As AI continues to evolve at breakneck speed, understanding its impact on data privacy is more essential than ever. Join us as we navigate: AI's Impact on Privacy: Unpack how AI is transforming the data privacy landscape and its implications for security. Regulatory Insights: Get up-to-date with the latest regulations in AI and privacy. Ethical AI Use: Explore the ethical responsibilities in developing AI technologies. Real-World Applications: Hear about practical challenges and success stories in the realm of AI and privacy. Future Trends: Peek into the upcoming trends in AI and privacy. Data Protection Strategies: Learn actionable tips for protecting personal and organizational data. Meet the Expert: Debbie Reynolds "The Data Diva" With over two decades of experience in emerging technologies, Debbie Reynolds has established herself as a leading authority in data privacy and tech innovation. As the CEO and Chief Data Privacy Officer of Debbie Reynolds Consulting LLC, she brings a wealth of knowledge from various sectors, including AdTech, FinTech, and EdTech. Debbie's insights are sought after globally, making her a prominent figure in AI and privacy discussions. Conversation Highlights In this engaging conversation, Debbie shares her journey from a philosophy major to a tech innovator. She discusses her early work in digital transformation and how her personal interest in privacy evolved alongside her career in emerging technologies. Debbie emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's dual role as a tool for innovation and potential risk. She provides practical advice for companies on managing AI responsibly, highlighting the need for human judgment in AI decision-making processes. Debbie also touches on the regulatory landscape, discussing the current state of AI regulations in the U.S. and Europe, and the significant role of the FTC in protecting consumer data. She envisions a future where smaller, specialized AI models will become prevalent, emphasizing the need for ongoing education and training in AI use within organizations. Learning Outcomes By the end of this episode, you will: Understand the transformative impact of AI on data privacy and security. Gain insights into current and upcoming AI and privacy regulations. Learn about ethical considerations in AI development and use. Explore practical examples of AI applications in privacy and security. Discover future trends in AI technology and privacy practices. Receive actionable tips for managing data responsibly and mitigating privacy risks in your organization. Debbie’s wisdom offers a clear message: Embrace AI with caution and responsibility. Stay informed, ask critical questions about data usage, and ensure you have robust strategies for data protection and privacy. Tune in to this enlightening episode and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the intricate world of AI and privacy!

Join us for an eye-opening episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self as we dive into the transformative world of generative AI with Conor Grennan, Dean of MBA students and head of generative AI at NYU Stern School of Business. Conor brings his wealth of experience in academia, writing, speaking, and coaching to the table, sharing how he is helping students, professors, and corporations leverage the power of generative AI to achieve unprecedented productivity. In this episode, Conor reveals his journey into the AI space, inspired by his wife, Liz Grennan, who is also an AI enthusiast at McKinsey. Despite having no technical background, Conor has become a leading voice in generative AI, emphasizing that this technology is accessible to everyone, not just those with technical expertise. He discusses the importance of building a framework to teach AI effectively, the surprising ease of using these tools, and how they can revolutionize various industries, especially the legal field. Conor and Olga explore how generative AI can tackle mundane tasks, freeing up professionals to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of their jobs. They highlight the necessity for companies to approach AI as a learning journey rather than a mere technical upgrade, stressing the need for comprehensive training and top-down leadership to inspire widespread adoption. Key takeaways from this episode include: Understanding the basics of generative AI and its potential to transform productivity in the legal industry. The critical role of non-technical professionals in leading AI initiatives and why a technical background isn't necessary to excel in this space. Practical strategies for implementing AI in your daily tasks and overcoming common challenges such as hallucinations and data privacy concerns. The importance of developing a strategic framework for AI adoption within organizations, focusing on inspiring and educating the workforce. Tips for individuals to stay ahead in their careers by mastering AI tools, including practical steps for integrating AI into their professional routines. Tune in to discover how you can harness the power of generative AI to boost your productivity and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Follow Conor Grennan on LinkedIn and YouTube to continue learning from his insights and stay updated on the latest AI advancements. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that promises to equip you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the age of AI.