From IT Support to Business Strategy: The CIO’s Evolving Role in Law Firms

In This Episode:

Legal firms handle some of the most sensitive client data, making them prime targets for cyber threats. Adrian Ciocan, CIO of Lerners LLP, has worked diligently to transform his firm’s security posture, moving from a reactive to a proactive approach. He discusses how cybersecurity is no longer just a technical issue—it’s a business risk that requires buy-in from leadership.

With cyber threats, particularly business email compromise and ransomware, on the rise, Adrian emphasizes that education is the most effective line of defense. His team runs comprehensive security awareness training programs, ensuring everyone—from receptionists to partners—understands the risks and knows how to respond.

But security isn’t the only focus. Adrian shares how he’s built a culture of mentorship and leadership within his IT team, drawing from his own experiences. He believes the best way to develop IT leaders is to empower them to think strategically, not just technically. His approach fosters trust, collaboration, and growth, proving that IT can be a business enabler, not just a support function.

Finally, we dive into the future of IT in law firms, discussing AI, automation, and security innovations that are reshaping the industry. Adrian explains how AI-driven security tools are helping organizations stay ahead of cybercriminals, making IT teams more efficient and proactive.