Cobarnet: Bringing Colorado Attorneys Into the Twenty-first Century

• Publication year: 1990
• Pages: 1324
• Citation: Vol. 19 No. 7 Pg. 1324

19 Colo.Law. 1324 Colorado Lawyer 1990.

1990, July, Pg. 1324. COBARNet: Bringing Colorado Attorneys Into the Twenty-First Century

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Vol. 19, No. 7, Pg. 1324

COBARNet: Bringing Colorado Attorneys Into the Twenty-First Century

by Cindy Acree

CBA Law Office Management Coordinator

The concept for COBARNet began more than two years ago. After careful investigation, a major communications company was chosen to assist us in providing CBA members with access to Colorado legal-specific databases and services via computer. The intent was to perfect current on-line services before others are added, and then only add services our members actually would use.

All it takes to access COBARNet is a personal computer, a communications software package, a modem and a phone line. Many firms are already equipped with the computer and others already use some sort of communications software package allowing them access to an on-line data service. A modem, which is a piece of hardware, enables you to communicate with other computers through the telephone lines. Modems come in different baud rates, which determine the rate at which the information is transmitted over the screen. Once the personal computer and communications software are connected to the modem and the separate phone line, you can access the system.

Ease of use is one of the special features of the COBARNet system. It has been designed with the computer-illiterate in mind. Because the menus numerically define your choices, you just have to push a single button or use simple one-letter commands. A copy of the Main Menu is printed at right. When you push the number next to the category you wish to see, you get a submenu of additional choices or you are led directly to the information you are seeking. You can get help from the computer anywhere along the way.

At this time, the major feature of COBARNet is the direct access to the Colorado Secretary of State's computer. Corporate and UCC information is available at your fingertips, saving time spent in long lines or waiting on the telephone. Documents can also be requested and corporate names reserved via the electronic fax feature. This makes COBARNet a very cost effective tool for attorneys and corporate legal departments needing the information. Other information such as registered agent, stock information, corporate officers and lien data can be found. There is a $10 access fee for this service...