iPad brings new connection to lawyers, clients

Across the country, relatively few lawyers use tablet computers extensively to practice law, though they are beginning to take hold. While the devices show a lot of promise, they can't completely replace laptops yet. But two Phoenix personal-injury attorneys are using tablet computers to help solve an age-old complaint attorneys hear from clients: I can never reach my lawyer.

Marc Lamber and James Goodnow have given Apple iPads to 20 of their major clients. The tablet PCs — which are given back to the law firm when a case is over — are used as so-called "red phones" that allow clients to contact either attorney if they have a question or want more information about their case. The iPads also help the attorneys build high-tech presentations that they use to help settle cases before they end up in court, the lawyers say.