Montana Lawyer August/September 2024

for 7 hours, we can cowbell and say “turn right” for 8. We took a seat on the curb around 2pm when we knew the course would be clos ing. A biker came by: “one more runner on the course!” [Insert elation!] “But she’s three miles back.” [And, crushed- that would mean another hour!] Without hesitation, we decided to run the course backward until we found her so we could join her. This lady had to be tired and defeated after being out there so long. We jogged and looked for her and finally found her: Cindy. 79 years young (her birthday was just around the corner, she was disappointed not to make it in the 80+ age group) and performing her 72nd Marathon. She was looking stunning in a cap and leopard-print buff, and she did NOT need us. She said her hip hurt and she was walking nearly keeled over at a right angle, but she did not need any help. She occasionally got dizzy and took a pause, but kept going forward. We told her we were there to make sure she didn’t get off course and though we were expecting that she would be excited for our company she said, “Okay. Do what you want, I guess.” As we walked with her she told us about her 71 other marathons, her goal to make it into the 100 Marathon Club, her

family (they had most all been recently killed in unrelated terrible circumstances), and how she actually came to Missoula to do the half marathon. The night before the race she saw that she could still register for the full marathon, so she switched her registration online from 13.1 to 26.2 miles. On a whim. Reminder: she’s 80 years old. As we passed other volunteers packing up to head out we grabbed them to come along. Complaints that they were out all day and ready to go home were not toler ated. We started to pick up a full pack as the blocks went on. Everyone was amazed at Cindy, but Cindy was mostly confused by us. She did appreciate the volunteer with a mister who walked in front of her spraying her down. With her entourage she started to feel like the African Queen, she said. As we got near the finish line she stopped several more times. She leaned on cars, hugged a light post, and took a brief seat in a camp chair, but she only needed just a minute and she kept on charging. Someone tried to put an umbrella over her to block the sun but that was across her line. “H#$@ no,” she said, “put that thing away!”. By the time we made it across the finish line everyone was crying (except Cindy) witnessing Cindy’s sheer will and moxy. The officials were rolling up all

the race equipment when we arrived but the finish line and timer were still up just for her, along with a chair and a plate of cold snacks. The entire crew cheered as she made it in 4 minutes under the cut off time. She crossed the finish line, sat down in her chair, and began to plan the remain der of her weekend as if nothing spectacu lar at all had just happened. Cindy will forever be the hallmark I use for determination. If Cindy can do a mara thon in July at 79, I can [fill-in-the-blank with… ANYTHING]. What would Cindy do? Would Cindy be complaining now? Would Cindy choose the easy route? Had I not taken the time to volunteer I would never have met the Cindy’s of the world and for that I’m grateful for the opportunity. As attorneys we need to volunteer and often there are more and more needs requiring our legal or organizational skill. As we see failures of the justice system it gets harder to move forward volunteering our time, but what would Cindy do? Although I never knew Cindy’s last name, I did look at Marathon Maniacs 100 Marathon club and saw a Cindy there, from Michigan like SCindy was, still doing 8-hour Marathons through 2024 (her 107th). I’d like to believe it’s her. Still going at 86. And we can too.

Tech Tips for Lawyers Techology for Law Firms

1. Leverage Legal Research Tools: Use advanced legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis to streamline case law research and stay updated on legal precedents. These tools offer powerful search functions and comprehensive databases to save you time and improve accuracy. 2. Implement Document Management Systems: Adopt a robust document management system (DMS) to organize, store, and retrieve legal documents efficiently. A DMS enhances collaboration and ensures that critical files are secure and easily accessible. 3. Use E-Discovery Tools: Invest in e-discovery software to handle large volumes of electronic evidence. These tools help with data collection, processing, and analysis, making it easier to manage and review evidence during litigation. 4. Adopt Secure Communication Channels: Utilize encrypted communication platforms for client correspondence and case discussions. Ensuring the confidentiality and security of client information is crucial, especially in sensitive legal matters. Using technology can make your legal work easier and safer. By using tools for legal research, organizing documents better, manag ing electronic evidence, and ensuring secure communication, lawyers can work more efficiently and protect client information. These tech tips help save time and improve how you handle cases.

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2024

21

WWW.MONTANABAR.ORG