Community Legal Services Director of Technology Eli Mattern authored an article for Cybersecurity Law Report that published on June 11, 2025 exploring the critical role of cybersecurity in legal aid organizations (LAOs). Mattern emphasizes that LAOs, as both law firms and nonprofits, face distinct cybersecurity risks due to their management of sensitive client information and their significant financial responsibilities and transparency requirements.
Eli also addresses the dual nature of technology for LAOs, highlighting considerable opportunities to enhance access to justice through innovations like AI and data science. However, it also presents notable risks, including ransomware and data exposure via third-party services.
“Technology – and, by default, cybersecurity – will play an increasingly crucial role in the administration of justice in the coming years. It is incumbent on the cyber law, data security and legal aid communities to work together to harness the opportunities while managing risk,” explains Mattern.
To view the full article, click here.