We’re talking with Pegeen Turner, owner of Legal Cloud Technology, and now founder of Law Firm Defender. Her company specializes in managed IT services tailored for law firms — a topic many solos and small firms want to better understand.

Q: Pegeen, thanks for joining us! Let’s start with the basics — what is Law Firm Defender, and what inspired you to start it?

A: Thank you! Law Firm Defender is a managed IT services company built specifically for law firms. After more than 20 years working with lawyers on their technology, I saw a clear need for reliable, proactive IT support — especially for smaller firms that don’t have in-house IT teams. I wanted to create a law firm specific service that not only solved problems but prevented them from happening in the first place. I also found that so many IT companies say they work with law firms, but they don’t know how law firms operate or their software. We know law firms and their software. We understand that downtime is critical for a small firm and try to be as responsive as possible.

Q: “Managed IT services” is a term we hear more and more, but not everyone knows what it actually means. Can you explain it in plain English?

A: Absolutely. Managed IT services means outsourcing your technology management to a company that handles it all for you — like having a full-time IT department, but without hiring one. We monitor your systems 24/7, update your software and security tools, back up your data, troubleshoot problems, and help you plan for future needs. It’s a monthly service model, so it’s predictable, scalable, and proactive.

Q: How is that different from just calling a tech person when something breaks?

A: Great question. That’s called “break/fix” support — and it’s reactive. You’re putting out fires, often at the worst possible time. Managed services, on the other hand, are proactive. We’re watching your systems in real time, applying security patches, making sure backups are running, and often fixing issues before you even notice. It’s like the difference between going to the ER and having a primary care physician who helps you stay healthy.

As Law Firm Defender has been working with firms over the last year, we found that smaller firms need flexibility. The true MSP model doesn’t work for all firms. Some firms want that comprehensive service and other firms need security services to protect them, but don’t want to pay a monthly fee for help desk that they don’t need or want. We offer that flexibility. When we onboard a new law firm client, we talk about their needs and put systems in place that will work best for them and their budget.

Q: What kinds of things do you take off a lawyer’s plate when you manage their IT?

A: We handle everything from setting up secure email and document management systems to managing antivirus, firewall protection, and device encryption. We make sure that your systems are up to date, provide recommendations on how to ensure that your systems and data are safe and secure. We run regular security audits, provide cybersecurity awareness training, and make sure your software is compliant with industry and state bar standards. We also help with transitions — like when you are starting a new firm, hiring, moving to the cloud, or updating software. We’re your law firm IT partner, not just a vendor who does not know your business.

Q: A lot of solo and small firm lawyers are concerned about cybersecurity. How does Law Firm Defender help there?

A: That’s one of our biggest focus areas. Law firms are prime targets for cyberattacks, and small firms are often the most vulnerable. We build layers of defense — including endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication, encrypted communications, and backup/recovery plans. We also help lawyers understand what ethical obligations they have around technology and data protection, and how to meet them.

Q: What’s the ideal time for a lawyer to bring in a company like yours?

A: If you’re relying on DIY tech or a friend who “knows computers,” it’s time. Ideally, before you have a data breach, ransomware attack, or major tech failure. But even if you’ve already experienced one of those, we can help you rebuild smarter. We work with solo attorneys just starting out as well as small firms with 5–10 lawyers. It’s never too early to take IT seriously.

Also, if you are not sure what you are getting out of your current MSP, I am happy to chat! Often, the firms who come to us for advice don’t understand what they are getting with their current MSP. They pay a lot of money and are not sure what type of response / service they should receive. They think because they are small, it should take their IT folks time to get back to them. But time is money for law firms! That is now how your IT service should work.

Q: What’s one thing you’d want every small firm lawyer to know about managing their IT?

A: You don’t have to do it alone — and honestly, you shouldn’t. Technology is now a core part of how law is practiced. Having professional IT support isn’t a luxury — it’s part of running a secure, ethical, and efficient law practice.

Q: How can someone learn more about working with Law Firm Defender?

A: Visit www.lawfirmdefender.com  or reach out to me directly. We offer consultations to assess your current setup and help you figure out what level of support makes sense for your firm. We’re here to make technology work for you — so you can focus on your clients.