Technology, support and facilities

Information technology and support

We set up the firm in 2008 with cutting edge IT to enable collaborative, remote working. We have continued to enhance our infrastructure to the same aim. With end-to-end encryption and two factor authentication, our server access gives you secure access to the services you need, anywhere in the world.

The latest iManage technology allows 24hr shared access to our shared client files and document management system with automatic email filing. Our IT platform also gives you access to time recording and know-how resources as well as various practice-specific specialist software.

Our managed IT service provider supports our general applications and any technical issues you may encounter. Through their Managed Plus support, responses are prioritised for you.  Should you require it, (which we can work with you to establish) there is 24/7 support accessed via a dedicated number.

We will arrange for your laptop to be encrypted and loaded with access to our IT platform and all the resources it provides. We can help you with selecting an appropriate laptop, monitor, and printer/scanner/copier and other accessories to get you up and running with the minimum amount of hassle.

In summary, we provide you with the kind of cutting-edge IT access and services that you would find at any major professional service firm, including:

• 24/7 server access*
• 24/7 support
• Constantly updated full Microsoft Office suite of document software
• iManage document management and automatic email filing
• Automatic real-time [carpe diem] and manual time recording
• 24/7 access to PLC and Westlaw
• Mimecast email security screening for protection from ransomware, business email compromise, data loss and cyber attacks
• End-to-end data encryption from and to our servers
• Two-factor authentification server access
• Laptop set up and encryption
• Data back-up and retrieval and disaster recovery systems

*Subject to usual maintenance and upgrade requirements

Telephony and conference calling

Call handling

We will provide a call handling service where calls received for you via our switchboard are routed directly to you. If you are unable to take the call, an email with the caller’s details and any message will be sent to you.

Conference call facilities

As part of your Microsoft Office package, you will have access to Microsoft Teams which offers video calling and chat features. You will also be given a business Zoom account on your laptop. The business Zoom licence covers hosting one-to-one calls or attending calls with other Abbiss Cadres colleagues or clients.

Admin and trainee/paralegal/support

Document formatting

If you need help formatting a document or other administrative assistance on client matters then you can access assistance through our admin support email address and a team member will be happy to help. We have a fair usage policy of non-chargeable admin support for which there is no charge so that you don’t need to worry about incurring costs for routine support.

We have other solutions available if your particular requirements go beyond our fair usage policy and you want a higher level of secretarial or clerical support service.

Digital dictation

Besides internal admin support, you can access digital dictation services free of charge. Abbiss Cadres use BigHand, which records the words you speak, and efficiently transposes them into documents or emails on Abbiss Cadres’ systems using speech recognition.

Large scale printing

If your practice requires large-scale printing we will arrange this for you.

Trainee/paralegal support

Trainee solicitor, paralegal and other admin support is also on hand to ensure that you can provide an efficient client service.

Client set up and AML compliance

All client on-boarding is carried out by our Admin Compliance team. From AML compliance to issuing engagement letters; all the heavy lifting in opening new clients and matters is done for you so you can better focus on chargeable work.