Working Remotely – Member Firm Checklist

Below is a helpful checklist to ensure that staff can work effectively and security standards are maintained when working remotely

Item	Done? To do? Not do?	ACTION: Who is doing what by when?
Provide a clear working-remotely policy which includes what an acceptable internet connection entails and the types of devices that may be used to connect online to the firm’s systems
Set clear expectations on the times people should be available and how (by the role)
Identify “who needs what” equipment and software and how to get them (e.g. second monitor, scanner, headset, camera, printer, printer paper – submit request? Receipt? Order online?)
Ensure all software connections require multifactor authentication log in
Provide guidance on printing and disposal of printed material at home (keep and bring in? Shred? Other?)
Provide a “What to do” guidance if firm’s equipment at home is stolen / lost / damaged
Have someone call each lawyer / allied professional to see what help they need to use tools remotely
Hold regular “open call” events to answer questions / issues regarding remote working / ‘working at home’
Run phishing test on firms’ users – and reward those who do well
Provide all law firm lawyer and allied professional staff with a list of emergency contact numbers
Provide guidance / tips to lawyers and staff on how to be professional on video meetings • Keep your background tidy • Prevent distractions • Choose strong lighting • Keep your video on • Use a headset or quality microphone • Mute yourself when it’s not your turn to talk
Save all data to the network rather than locally. If that is not feasible, backup data frequently on a different hard drive or external device (ransomware concerns)
If lawyers and staff must use their own PC or laptop, provide instruction on how to keep updates and security patches current
Require remote users to have strong passwords on their personal routers