/blog/Future of LawNewsStudentsBlogs-NavigationResearch & legal analysis urn:uuid:84f2be09-19af-480d-95bf-731bdb004508/blog/future-of-law/pioneering-law-firms-harnessing-the-potential-of-generative-aiFuture of LawMel Kang, CEO of international law firm Mezzle shares his insights on the transformative potential of AI technology in the legal sector. He explains how integrating AI into his firm's operations has not only kept them at the forefront of industry advancements but also helps them to actively shape the future of the field.Thu, 08 Aug 2024 14:19:13 Zurn:uuid:3e03a9be-fbcf-4151-850a-7e696a9fb94f/blog/future-of-law/protecting-the-uk-industry-from-dumped-importsFuture of LawWe recently hosted an insightful webinar exploring strategies for UK industries to safeguard against unfairly dumped imports. We have partnered with the TRA to bring you a 3-part series on trade remedies, this being the first.Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:07:08 Zurn:uuid:2aab8fb1-f59c-4798-8978-2f1ec4ac424c/blog/future-of-law/law-firms-evolving-relationship-with-freelance-lawyersFuture of LawOutsourcing client work is something many law firms do, yet very few talk about. UU����ֱ�� investigates the freelance legal market, and how firms are working with them.Thu, 01 Aug 2024 10:28:35 Z<div></div><div><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Law firms are navigating a new frontier &ndash; the rise of freelance lawyers. UU����ֱ��' latest report, "</span><a href="/research-and-reports/law-firms-relationship-with-freelancers.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Law firms' hush-hush relationship with freelancers</a><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">," unveils this emerging trend, shedding light on the extent to which firms rely on freelancers, the types of work they outsource, and the factors driving more lawyers to embrace the freelance path.</span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span></p></div><div><br></div><h4>Key findings:</h4><div><p></p></div><div><p><strong>1. </strong><strong>Over a third of law firm leaders rely on short-term contract or freelance lawyers for client work</strong>. The survey found that 34% of law firm leaders employ freelancers, with medium-sized firms being th</p></div>urn:uuid:e5e693da-3540-4a97-9dc4-0a5691afaac1/blog/future-of-law/the-type-of-work-law-firms-will-likely-outsourceFuture of LawWe investigate the types of legal work being delegated to freelancers, shedding light on the strategic considerations and implications of this growing trend.Wed, 31 Jul 2024 16:28:03 Z<p>Outsourcing legal work remains a contentious topic, shrouded in secrecy. Yet many rely heavily on external resources to stay afloat. </p><p>But what exactly are firms outsourcing to these freelance lawyers? </p><p>This blog post delves into the types of legal work being delegated to freelancers, shedding light on the strategic considerations and implications of this growing trend.</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/law-firms-relationship-with-freelancers.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Read our full report on the freelance legal market</a></p><h4><strong>Accessing specialist expertise</strong></h4><p>One of the primary reasons firms turn to freelance lawyers is to tap into specialised knowledge or expertise in niche areas of law. As John Joyce, the Former Managing Partner at Addleshaw Goddard, explains, "If a client wants an expert in something quite niche, say submarine cable laying law, you can hire an expert on a short-term contract basis for that specific task. That means you're not permanently employing someone that's waiting around for more work to come in."</p><p>These highly specialised freelancers can be found individually, through fee-sharing firms like Keystone Law, or on secondment from flexible legal resourcing providers such as Lawyers on Demand. By leveraging their expertise, firms can provide clients with tailored solutions without the overhead of permanent hires.</p><h4><strong>Routine tasks and document review</strong></h4><p>While accessing niche expertise is a common use case, firms also outsource more routine tasks and document review to freelance lawyers. As Deborah Finkler, the Managing Partner of Slaughter and May, notes, "Freelance lawyers are there to do a very specif</p>urn:uuid:103d72c9-1a0b-4cce-ba42-b6a57bdd0e99/blog/future-of-law/just-how-much-work-do-law-firms-send-to-freelancersFuture of LawLaw firms have been outsourcing client work to freelance lawyers for years. Discover the types of legal work being outsourced, the benefits and drawbacks, and the future of freelancing in the legal industry.Wed, 31 Jul 2024 16:22:15 Zurn:uuid:69dc442e-9c28-426e-9b2e-ae8024629b82/blog/future-of-law/20-essential-ai-terms-all-uk-lawyers-need-to-knowFuture of LawQuick and easy definitions of the AI related terminology all lawyers now need to know.Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:13:28 Z<div></div><div><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;color:inherit;">As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance and become more integrated into various industries, including the legal field, it's crucial for lawyers in the UK to familiarise themselves with the relevant terminology. Understanding these terms will not only help you communicate more effectively with clients, colleagues, and experts but also enable you to navigate the legal implications and challenges posed by AI technologies. Here's a comprehensive list of AI terms that every UK lawyer should know:</span><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><br></div><div><p>1. <a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/artificial-intelligence" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Artificial Intelligence (AI) </a>- The broad field of developing computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></div><div><br></div><div><p>2. <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/machine-learning" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Machine Learning (ML)</a> - A subset of AI that involves developing algorithms and statistical models that enable computer systems to learn from data and improve their performance on a specific task without being explicitly programmed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></div><div><br></div><div><p>3. <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ai/deep-learning" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Deep Learning </a>- A type of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks with multiple layers to learn and make intelligent decisions based on data inputs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></div><div><br></div><div><p>4. <a href="https://cloud.google.com/natural-language" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Natural Language Processing (NLP</a>) - A branch of AI that deals with the interaction between computers and humans using natural language, enabling tasks such as text analysis, speech recognition, and language translation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em>Join the <a href="/ai-insider/sign-up.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI Insider Programme</a> for real-time updates on the latest AI developments and exclusive resources and events.</em></p><p><em>&nbsp;</em></p></div><div><p>5. <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/machine-learning/computer-vision/" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Computer Vision </a>- The field of AI that enables computers to derive meaningful information from digital images, videos, and other visual inputs, enabling applications like object recognition, facial recognition, and image analysis.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></div><div><br></div><div><p>6. <a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/robotics" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Robotics </a>- The branch of AI focused on designing and building robots, which are programmable machines capable of carrying out complex tasks and interacting with their environment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></div><div><br></div><div><p>7. <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/project/reinforcement-learning" target="_blank href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/project/reinforcement-learning" target=""></a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/project/reinforcement-learning" target="_blank></p></div>urn:uuid:3417668d-1853-41d3-a75e-c1865dc5cb57/blog/future-of-law/how-family-lawyers-can-use-lexis-to-boost-efficiencyFuture of LawDiscover how UK family lawyers can leverage the powerful tools and resources of Lexis+ Family to streamline legal research, drafting, analytics, and ease of access for increased efficiency and productivity.Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:37:04 Z<p><strong></strong>The age-old saying &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not what you know, it&rsquo;s who you know,&rdquo; may still ring true in some circles, but for family law solicitors wanting to increase their efficiency and overall effectiveness, the saying should be switched to the following: &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not what you know, or who you know, it&rsquo;s what tools you have access to.&rdquo;</p><p>Leveraging the right legal technology tools is essential for streamlining your workflows and increasing productivity. UU����ֱ�� offers family lawyers a suite of powerful resources that can increase efficiency and effectiveness. In this guide, we'll explore specific technical tips and strategies for using <a href="/legal/family-law" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ Family</a>.</p><h4>1. <strong>Mastering legal research with Lexis+</strong></h4><p>Comprehensive legal research is crucial in family law matters, and <a href="/legal/family-law" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ Family </a>provides access to a vast collection of resources, including case law, legislation, precedents and forms.</p><p>To make the most of this wealth of information, follow these tips</p><p><strong>- </strong><strong>Utilise natural language searches:</strong> Lexis+ Family allows you to search using plain language queries, making it easier to find relevant information quickly.</p><p><strong>- Set up search filters:</strong> Customise your search filters by jurisdiction (e.g., England and Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland) or practice area to ensure you're accessing the most relevant resources for your case.</p><p>- <strong>Save frequently used searches: </strong>If you have recurring research needs, save your search queries for easy access and reuse.</p><p>Additionally, UU����ֱ�� has recently introduced AI-powered tool the <a href="/lexis-plus/lexis-plus-ai.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="" href="/lexis-plus/lexis-plus-ai.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable=""></a href="/lexis-plus/lexis-plus-ai.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable=""></p>urn:uuid:1227c8d5-a6ac-4f3d-85db-8653148931da/blog/future-of-law/why-small-law-firms-are-investing-more-in-techFuture of LawWe discuss why many small law firms see tech as an essential ingredient to growth. We explore the growing appeal of tech investment for small law firms, discuss some of the barriers to investment, and explore the revolutionising effective of AI.Fri, 28 Jun 2024 11:43:13 Z<p>The 2024 UU����ֱ�� Bellwether report, <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2024.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">Lessons on law firm growth</a>, explores all the vital ingredients that have led to growth among independent firms, including plans for scaling up, investment strategies, employee-employer relations, and so much more.</p><p>Growth has become a core priority. <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2024.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="">The Bellwether report</a>, built on a survey of more than 250 leaders and associates at small- and medium-sized legal practices, found that 63% of firms plan to grow through organic means, up from 40% in 2023.</p><p>A key route to growth, <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2024.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="">according to the report</a>, stems from tech investment. In this article, we explore the growing appeal of tech investment for small law firms, discuss some of the barriers to investment, and explore the revolutionising impact of <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/tracking-the-irresistible-rise-of-generative-ai">artificial intelligence. (AI)</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>The growing appeal of tech</strong></h4><p>Firms placed tech firmly at the top of their priorities for investment. More than a third (35%) will increase spending in the next 12&ndash;18 months, while one-fifth (21%) have already done so. A mere quarter (26%) of firms suggest no plans to increase investment.</p><p>The appeal of tech stems from its ability to save time. The <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-is-technology-used-in-law-making">right platforms and the right tech</a> can reduce the time spent on drafting legal documents, conducting legal research, sourcing relevant precedents or citations, improving day-to-day operations, and so much more.</p><p>Tech also strengthens existing client relationships. Anthony Earl, Chair of the Law Society&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/small-firms" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Small Firms Network</a> Committee, says tech reduces time spent on admin, which &lsquo;means staff can concentrate on actually practicing law and improving the client experience&rsquo;.</p><p>Tech does not simply strengthen existing relationships. Stephen Roper, professor at Warwick Business School, claims that tech investment, when effectively deployed and integrated, can bring in new clients and boost revenue: &lsquo;Digital technologies can yield significant productivity benefits, most notably by making non-billable activities more efficient.&rsquo;</p><p>It is no surprise that small firms are aiming to increase investment in tech, especially as they need to </p>urn:uuid:54404f26-9aa8-4816-989a-3b1639bfcfd8/blog/future-of-law/bellwether-2024-keeping-up-with-the-law-the-top-challenge-for-independent-law-firmsFuture of LawThis article explores the need to stay updated with legal updates, the downsides of relying on public AI tools, and the advantages of using comprehensive research platforms like Lexis+. Discover how small firms can stay competitive and informed despite their size, ensuring they meet client demands and maintain a high standard of service.Fri, 21 Jun 2024 14:10:31 Z<div><p paraid="769030757" paraeid="{683a82f7-aa03-4046-9870-e12d651299fd}{242}">To stay ahead, it is now a strategic priority for firms to be conscious of changes to the law and the legal sector. Smaller law firms have a greater need to keep up, facing expectations to hold expertise in multiple legal areas as part of their unique service.&nbsp;</p></div><div><p paraid="2008377616" paraeid="{0d2f9042-84a7-47a6-a79b-3afd16085d1c}{51}">Tim Rayner, Head of Small Law Go-to-Market at UU����ֱ��, says "There's so much information to sift through, laws are changing quickly, and our legal system is becoming increasingly complex. Lawyers need to be able to jump from one specialist area of the law to another in moments, otherwise they will struggle to keep pace." This is particularly true for small law firms with imposing pressure to stay updated from all angles.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p paraid="2008377616" paraeid="{0d2f9042-84a7-47a6-a79b-3afd16085d1c}{51}"><a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2024.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Read the Bellwether 2024 survey of small and medium sized firms</a></p></div><div><p paraid="293221325" paraeid="{0d2f9042-84a7-47a6-a79b-3afd16085d1c}{91}">This blog delves into the challenges faced by small law firms such as a rapidly changing legal climate, increasing client expectations and a smaller support network.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></div><div><h4 paraid="1598615482" paraeid="{0d2f9042-84a7-47a6-a79b-3afd16085d1c}{109}">Keeping up with the law is the top challenge&nbsp;</h4></div><div><p paraid="2100856140" paraeid="{0d2f9042-84a7-47a6-a79b-3afd16085d1c}{119}">The legal sector is inevitably shifting, with laws changing at an accelerating pace. This scope of change is also impacted by a multitude of factors such as digital transformation, climate conditions and socio-economic shifts. It is no longer viable to follow tradition, the evolving landscape demands firms to be agile to be successful. Lawyers must be able to adjust from one specialist area of the law to another in moments, otherwise they will struggle to keep up.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></div><div><p paraid="1475718728" paraeid="{0d2f9042-84a7-47a6-a79b-3afd16085d1c}{181}">In larger law firms, it&rsquo;s becoming increasingly commonplace for lawyers to carve out careers by owning a very specific niche area within the law. Smaller practices must </p></div>urn:uuid:d166b055-51f5-4391-be77-c827e7be44bf/blog/future-of-law/keeping-up-with-the-latest-legal-changes-without-it-impacting-client-workFuture of LawWe speak to Emma Egerton-Jones, award-winning solicitor and founder of Egerton-Jones Consulting, for her take on how small firms can keep up with increasing client expectations, whilst keeping up with changes to the legal industry and law.Thu, 20 Jun 2024 13:46:57 Z<p>According to our 2024 Bellwether Report, <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2024.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">83% of small firms say that their clients demand a quicker response time than before.</a> We speak to Emma Egerton-Jones, solicitor and founder of Egerton-Jones Consulting, for her take on how expectations have evolved, and what the &ldquo;new&rdquo; set of requirements that smaller firms are expected to meet looks like today.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Why are small firms facing such a sharp rise in client expectations? How has this shifted since the pandemic?</strong></p><p>In today's rapidly evolving legal landscape, the lawyer-client dynamic is undergoing significant transformation, driven by shifting client expectations, changes in communication methods, heightened cost sensitivity, and the enduring impact of covid-19. Clients are seeking out lawyers who not only possess deep technical expertise <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-golden-era-for-small-law-firms-using-innovation-to-delight-clients">but are able to understand their unique needs, goals and preferences</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>The pandemic caused a global trust haemorrhage leaving clients with higher expectations of law firms than before and, given economic pressures, conducting more due diligence on their buying decisions. With geographical limits removed and all service providers available remotely, clients are surrounded by choice and looking for proof that what law firms <em>say </em>they deliver is true. There is a real sense of needing to know their legal spend will be justified, with a growing emphasis on transparent, value-driven solutions and tangible, cost-effective, results. </p><div><div><div id="_com_1" language="JavaScript"><p>Similarly, the experience deprivation and lack of connection during the pandemic reminded clients how much they value a humanised client journey. Paradoxically, <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/can-technology-help-independent-law-firms-to-grow">clients are also increasingly drawn to firms that leverage technology</a> to be more efficient and cost effective. This leaves small firms with the somewhat challenging expectation of accelerating digital service delivery whilst simultaneously investing more time in building relationships, understanding preferences, and offering enhanced experience. This is where understanding what your clients truly value becomes essential to gaining a competitive advantage.</p><p>When we combine these market shifts - such as economic pressure, diminished local bias, easier comparison, accessibility of knowledge, and increased competition - it isn&rsquo;t surprising </p></div></div></div>urn:uuid:f944a659-a51f-49ba-b7eb-e565c65eb64a/blog/future-of-law/lexis-ai-safe-accurate-fast-availableFuture of LawThe legal industry is undergoing a technological breakthrough. A Goldman Sachs report suggested that 44 per cent of legal work could be automated by generative AI in the near future. With the digital landscape evolving at unprecedented speeds, legal professionals across the UK have been quick to recognise the value that generative AI (gen AI) will offer them in their work.  AI adoption and advancementFor an industry which takes pride in accuracy and reliability, the adoption of AI demonstrates a progressive shift in strategic thinking. The legal profession is typically conservative, staying loyal to former processes. Forward thinking law firms such as Hamers Solicitors, a leading regional firm and Irwin Mitchell, one of the largest general practice law firms in the UK have realised that to remain relevant in an increasingly digital world, there is an urgent need to adapt to the technology advancements of today. As such, both firms are amongst the first to integrate Lexis+ AI into their operations.  These firms are setting a compelling example for others to follow. Those that identify as fast followers should recognise the urgency of this moment, the time to act is now.  Lexis+ AI is now available for UK customers as one of the most comprehensive legal AI platforms on the market. Grounded on one the UKs largest databases of legal research and practical guidance, Lexis+ AI is designed to deliver trusted responses with automatic links to the underlying evidence or source. Lexis+ AI is set to help transform the legal sector.  Gerry Duffy, Managing Director of UU����ֱ�� UK comments, “This is a pivotal moment in the history of the UK legal industry. We have had unprecedented levels of interest in Lexis+ AI from our market and as of today, many of our customers will be enjoying the competitive advantage of having access to our rich and authoritative content combined with our leading AI technology.”Thu, 13 Jun 2024 13:28:47 Z<div><p paraid="374940176" paraeid="{ec3652cc-6a5b-45d2-8122-732f21147ed9}{168}">The legal industry is undergoing a technological breakthrough. A <a href="https://www.key4biz.it/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Global-Economics-Analyst_-The-Potentially-Large-Effects-of-Artificial-Intelligence-on-Economic-Growth-Briggs_Kodnani.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Goldman Sachs report</a> suggested that 44 per cent of legal work could be automated by generative AI in the near future. With the digital landscape evolving at unprecedented speeds, legal professionals across the UK have been quick to recognise the value that generative AI (gen AI) will offer them in their work.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><h4 paraid="374940176" paraeid="{ec3652cc-6a5b-45d2-8122-732f21147ed9}{168}">AI adoption and advancement</h4></div><div><p paraid="2053246457" paraeid="{ec3652cc-6a5b-45d2-8122-732f21147ed9}{223}">For an industry which takes pride in accuracy and reliability, the adoption of AI demonstrates a progressive shift in strategic thinking. The legal profession is typically conservative, staying loyal to former processes. Forward thinking law firms such as Hamers Solicitors, a leading regional firm and Irwin Mitchell, one of the largest general practice law firms in the UK have realised that to remain relevant in an increasingly digital world, there is an urgent need to adapt to the technology advancements of today. As such, both firms are amongst the first to integrate Lexis+ AI into their operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></div><div><p paraid="318058892" paraeid="{ec3652cc-6a5b-45d2-8122-732f21147ed9}{237}">These firms are setting a compelling example for others to follow. Those that identify as fast followers should recognise the urgency of this moment, the time to act is now.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></div><div><p paraid="181304343" paraeid="{2f6d3c89-f6ae-47d8-903f-6251f2e306d0}{4}">Lexis+ AI is now available for UK customers as one of the most comprehensive legal AI platforms on the market. Grounded on one the UKs largest databases of legal research and practical guidance, Lexis+ AI is designed to deliver trusted responses with automatic links to the underlying evidence or source. Lexis+ AI is set to help transform the legal sector.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></div><div><p paraid="1443599880" paraeid="{2f6d3c89-f6ae-47d8-903f-6251f2e306d0}{58}">Gerry Duffy, Managing Director of UU����ֱ�� UK comments, &ldquo;This is a pivotal moment in the history of the UK legal industry. We have had unprecedented levels of interest in Lexis+ AI from our market and as of today, many of our customers will be enjoying the competitive advantage of having access to our rich and authoritative content combined with our leading AI technology.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p></div>urn:uuid:161c120e-66bb-40cf-b5b3-ab3c34491392/blog/future-of-law/how-independent-law-firms-feel-about-growing-organicallyFuture of LawSmaller law firms are adamant that they can grow their businesses organically in the next few months. Find out their top tactics here.Wed, 12 Jun 2024 15:02:00 Zurn:uuid:3c1444ba-aa10-4835-894f-3a4232944327/blog/future-of-law/with-ai-lawyers-will-hold-an-entire-world-of-legal-knowledge-in-their-handsFuture of LawLawyers trade on their knowledge. But even the most junior of lawyers now have an entire world of legal knowledge at their fingertips. How will this impact the sector?Thu, 30 May 2024 15:28:34 Z<div><p><span style="background-color:initial;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">A week or two ago, I had the privilege to address the audience at LegalEdCon.&nbsp; This group of several hundred learning and development professionals are dedicated to nurturing and developing the next generation of lawyers.&nbsp; I argued that the next generation of lawyer is not only the luckiest generation of lawyers ever, but also the most powerful.&nbsp; Here&rsquo;s my argument.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;color:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">It is (pretty much) undeniable.&nbsp; The legal profession, that unchanging bastion of tradition and process, is changing.&nbsp; The catalyst?&nbsp; Generative artificial intelligence (AI). As we squint into the sunshine of this revolution (and yes, it is a revolution), it is clear that the next generation of lawyers are taking on a burden of responsibility sooner than expected.&nbsp;</span></span></p><h4><span style="background-color:initial;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><strong>Lawyers need to become champions of change</strong></span></span></h4><p>Laws come and go, the power of the judiciary ebbs and wanes, law firms are born, merge and die.&nbsp; Yet, eerily constant through this changing legal web, one element of the legal industry refuses to die.&nbsp; For centuries, the billable hour has been the bedrock of legal practice.&nbsp; Lawyers meticulously track their time and clients meticulously argue over that tracking.&nbsp; The billable hour stands as the proud symbol of an unchanging legal industry.&nbsp;</p><p>According to a recent UU����ֱ�� survey, 80% of firms still rely on the billable hour when charging clients. This is followed by fixed fee by matter (61%), fixed fee by phase (40%), and flat fees (38%).</p></div><div><br></div><div><blockquote>It is (pretty much) undeniable.&nbsp; The legal profession, that unchanging bastion of tradition and process, is changing.&nbsp; The catalyst?&nbsp; Generative artificial intelligence (AI).&nbsp; </blockquote></div><div><br></div><div>But - imagine a world where legal research, drafting and analysis is performed effortlessly and swiftly by AI.&nbsp; Lawyers can now focus on strategic thinking, nurturin</div>urn:uuid:129e2473-13bb-4154-8caa-ba0ad0cf398b/blog/future-of-law/can-technology-help-independent-law-firms-to-growFuture of LawTechnology can help increase lawyers' productivity, but will that bring in more revenue, or will it reduce it? We investigateWed, 29 May 2024 16:42:38 Z<p>Everyone has an opinion about how to run a business. But not everyone knows how to grow one. </p><p>Instead of relying on what may have worked in the past, small firms are investing in a new approach. The 2024 <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2024.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">UU����ֱ�� Bellwether survey </a>of 250+ leaders and associates at small- and medium-sized legal practices revealed many firms have plans to grow their business, and they&rsquo;re using technology to help them get there.</p><p>Almost two-thirds (63%) of firms plan to grow through organic means over the next five years, up from 40% in 2023 (a 57% increase in a mere 12 months).</p><p>To fuel their growth plans, firms have placed investment in technology at the top of their priority list, outranking hiring more lawyers or marketing and business development activities.</p><div data-sf-ec-immutable="" contenteditable="false" style="width:640px;height:360px;display:block;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;" class="sf-immutable-selected"><div data-sf-disable-link-event=""><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VSh_OfCnnbo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div></div><p>Almost half (56%) of firms have either spent or are planning to spend more on technology in the next 12-18 months. 35% plan to increase their spend on technology in the next 12 to 18 months, while 21% already have. Only 26% said they had no plans to increase investment.</p><p>Hiring more lawyers was also high on the 2024 agenda, with 40% planning to do so soon, and 16% having hired new lawyers already. Other key areas of investment include growing their marketing (49%) and business development functions (43%).</p><p>In 2024, the percentage of small law firms reporting growth sat at 48%, with a further 40% reporting stability. This is roughly on par with recent years, with the exception being 2021's post-lockdown boom which saw two-thirds (66%) of firms declaring growth.<br></p><p>Firms with between 11-20 fee earners are the most likely to experience growth, with the average sitting at 67%. Solo practitioners were harder done by, with one in five (20%) saying their firm's performance has declined in the last three to four years.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2024.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Read the Bellwether 2024 report here</a></p><h4><strong>How technology can drive revenue for law firms </strong></h4>urn:uuid:7e890d1e-db86-43a6-81b7-e525761b7c6f/blog/future-of-law/real-models-laura-spoonerFuture of LawOur REAL Models series showcases the diverse range of roles we have across our business and we hope to improve knowledge around what it means to be part of something bigger. We believe being part of UU����ֱ�� means being part of the change you want to see in the world.Thu, 23 May 2024 23:00:00 Zurn:uuid:f9ac6113-c03c-47f5-97eb-c44c3f268faf/blog/future-of-law/laws-of-attraction-how-to-recruit-retain-associatesFuture of LawSo-called bidding wars rage between UK and US firms. We explore the constant appeal of higher salaries and the increasing allure of a greater work-life balance.Tue, 21 May 2024 08:00:00 Z<p>The so-called bidding wars for associates have raged since at least 2015 when <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/global-firms-vs-uk-firms-the-battle-for-the-city">US firms made a concerted push into the UK market</a> to pursue private equity work. Aggressive hiring formed a massive part of that push and continues too now. <a href="https://www.kirkland.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Kirkland &amp; Ellis</a> brought in 18 UK partners in 2023, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton &amp; Garrison made 14 lateral hires during the same time, including recruiting top partners from Linklaters and Clifford Chance. In fact, <a href="https://www.leopardsolutions.com/leopard-law-firm-index-list/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">according to Leopard Solutions</a>, more than 370 associates left Magic Circle firms in 2023 and US firms have been among the top beneficiaries.&nbsp;</p><p>UK firms, as shown in our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre?</a>, have been fighting back. They aim to increase associate recruitment and retention by focusing on improved work-life balance, offering attractive packages that reduce hourly demands, provide faster tracks to promotion, and afford greater autonomy in each role.&nbsp;</p><p>In this article, we deep dive into <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a> to look at how US and UK firms compete for associates, exploring the allure of higher salaries and the increasing appeal of a <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-law-firms-are-evolving-the-partnership-model">greater work-life balance</a>.&nbsp;</p><h4>The constant allure of higher salaries&nbsp;</h4><p>In the simplest terms, UK firms are struggling to match US salaries. <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> suggested that compensation packages have stayed roughly the same in the last 12 months for UK firms. Only 11% of senior leaders claimed their firms had increased salaries above the rate of inflation, while 21% said they've only increased to match inflation.&nbsp;</p><p>Medium-sized and large law firms were more likely to raise salaries, at 38% and 31% respectively, but even these numbers show a minimal appetite &ndash; or an inability&nbsp;&ndash; to compete with US firms on salary. None of the Magic Circle firms match the <a href="https://abovethelaw.com/2023/11/cravath-announces-raises-comes-over-the-top-of-milbank-scale-for-some-associates/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">so-called Cravath scale</a> that elite US law firms adhere to for compensating associates. In fact, according to a <a href="https://news.bloomberglaw.com/business-and-practice/elite-uk-firms-are-losing-london-salary-battle-to-us-invaders" data-sf-ec-immutable="">London-based legal recruiter</a>, the</p>urn:uuid:71428809-f9ea-4060-ada3-3b7ac2d98b88/blog/future-of-law/lawyer-retention-in-an-age-of-declining-loyaltyFuture of LawWe explore the impact of declining loyalty on law firms and lawyers. Is this always such a bad thing?Tue, 14 May 2024 15:00:55 Z<p>In our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre?</a>, legal leaders suggest the challenge of lawyer retention is partly due to loyalty. Lawyers in the early stages of their careers no longer feel obligated to stay at the same law firm, nor to follow the once-assumed partnership model. Job mobility has drastically increased along with a reduction in the associated stigma around moving.&nbsp;</p><p>These challenges aren't restricted to the legal sector. They're part of a mass re-evaluation of priorities that followed the pandemic. However, solutions are unique to individual sectors. </p><p>In this article, we explore the driving forces behind the decline in loyalty, the impact on law firms and the wider sector, and discuss whether less loyalty is such a bad thing.</p><h4>The decline in loyalty&nbsp;</h4><p>The decline in loyalty is driven by wider social change. People across all industries have re-evaluated their priorities and work-life balance has often come out on top. The social change is not unique to any given generation or demographic. It's widespread, almost universal. In fact, according to the recent <a href="https://www.edelman.com/trust/trust-barometer" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Edelman Trust Barometer</a>, more than two-thirds (67%) of employees across the economy need to rethink what work means to employees. </p><p>Lawyers, like workers across the economy, no longer want to spend twelve-hour days in an office, and this as mentioned above, has led to increased job mobility and decreased stigma around changing jobs, particularly for younger lawyers. <a href="https://www.thelawyer.com/signal/data/fee-sharing-firms-what-you-need-to-know/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">The Lawyer's analysis</a> of hiring data from Atlas by <a href="https://www.codexedge.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Codex Edge</a> supports this. The data reveals lawyers are more likely to move firms, with junior lawyers being significantly more likely. The peak movement occurs at the 3PQE stage. </p><p>That's a point recognised by associates and legal leaders alike. In fact, according to <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a>, 72% of leaders said associates are less loyal than in the past. This number jumps to 81% for large and medium-sized firms. Importantly, 61% of leaders said declining loyalty is intertwined with job mobility. It's thus self-perpetuating: lawyers are moving firms due to the reduced stigma and the reduced stigma makes lawyers move.</p><p><em>Be at the forefront of the generative AI revolution, join <a href="/event/lexis-plus-demonstration-uk.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI Insiders</a> today and stay ahead of the curve. </em></p><h4>The impact of the decline in loyalty </h4><p>One</p>urn:uuid:141019a7-a08b-43a2-87b7-46a28a52bcb4/blog/future-of-law/law-firms-the-freelance-revolutionFuture of LawWe explore the impact of the increasing role of freelancers in law firms.Tue, 07 May 2024 12:51:34 Z<p>Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre?</a>, explores how career paths in law firms are quickly changing. <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> showed the partnership model, once the assumed career path for associates, has been fading in popularity.&nbsp;</p><p>New career paths have gained huge credibility after a relook at priorities following the pandemic. In recent years, we've seen the rise of <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/what-s-the-best-legal-services-model-for-in-house-teams">a host of alternative legal service providers (ALSPs)</a>, an increase in <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/5-exciting-new-career-paths-for-junior-lawyers">legal consultants at platform law firms</a>, a new wave of <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/a-demand-for-specialist-knowledge">freelance lawyers</a>, and plenty of other unique options challenging the standard model.&nbsp;</p><p>Because of such changes, law firms are struggling to <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/what-career-paths-will-replace-the-partnership-model">retain talent</a> and therefore, law firms are increasingly looking to contractors, consultants, and freelancers. </p><p>In this article, we'll dig deeper into the new opportunities for lawyers, the shifting career paths available to them, and the increasing role of contractors, freelancers, and legal consultants in law firms.&nbsp;</p><h4>Differentiating contractors, freelancers, and legal consultants</h4><p>It's important to begin with definitions. Both freelancers and contractors are typically self-employed, operating as <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-to-start-your-own-law-firm">sole traders or as limited companies</a> and each operates differently. Mostly, contractors are signed up with an agency and not paid directly by clients, whereas freelancers work independently and are paid directly.&nbsp;</p><p>The term <a href="/research-and-reports/platform-law-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">legal consultant</a> is often used interchangeably with freelance lawyer. Like contractors, legal consultants don't work entirely independently, as revenue-sharing <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/5-ways-small-law-firms-can-compete-with-platform-law-firms">platform law firms</a> typically afford them employment. The key difference between legal consultants and contractors is that consultants tend to share a percentage of billings, whereas contractors are typically paid in fixed amounts: per day, per month, per job, and so on. </p><p>As mentioned, the legal sector often uses the above terms interchangeably and <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-future-of-work-since-2019">freelancer is sometimes applied as a synecdoche</a> for all employees not employed by a law firm or a business. For ease, here, freelancer will cover both contractors and legal consultants.&nbsp;</p><p><em>Be at the forefront of the generative AI revolution, join <a href="/event/lexis-plus-demonstration-uk.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI Insiders</a> today and stay ah</em></p>urn:uuid:4ff7ae5e-26b5-4839-a9d3-6141729cd99b/blog/future-of-law/building-a-personal-brand-as-a-law-studentFuture of LawDeveloping a personal brand as a law student takes more than just a list of accomplishments; it requires careful consideration of experiences, values, and objectives. Students can carve out a distinct identity in the legal field by embracing varied experiences, demonstrating skills and passion, creating an online presence, participating in advocacy, and making important relationships through networking.Wed, 01 May 2024 15:34:16 Z<p>As a second-year law student at the University of Glasgow, my experience has been a thrilling combination of academics, community service, and personal development. Building a personal brand entail more than just listing successes; it also entails crafting a narrative that reflects my unique experiences, values, and goals. Let's explore how each facet of multiple facets alongside academics, contributes to shaping a personal brand within the legal realm.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Embrace Different Experiences</strong></p><p>Diversifying my experiences has been important in developing an interesting personal brand. From presenting research papers at multiple&nbsp;conferences to working with Citizens Advice, I've accepted opportunities that match my interests and ideals.&nbsp; These experiences have not only broadened my awareness of the legal world, but have also helped me improve my problem-solving, empathy, and advocacy skills. Whether it's taking on leadership roles in clubs and societies or working as a peer learning intern, every experience has helped me grow as a legal professional and shape my personal brand.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Showcase Your skills and passion</strong></p><p>As a law student, I used a variety of methods to promote my understanding and leadership in the legal community. Through blog postings, publications, and research papers, I've provided ideas on legal themes of interest while also engaging with peers and experts. Participating in speaking engagements and panel discussions has allowed me to demonstrate my&nbsp;passion. Consistently producing content and engaging with a wider community of students and professionals has allowed me to establish myself as a credible voice and authority in my field.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Cultivate Your Online Presence</strong></p><p>Maintaining a professional online presence has been crucial in shaping my personal </p>urn:uuid:6d209552-deaf-4e3a-a3df-135a7037400e/blog/future-of-law/how-law-firms-are-evolving-the-partnership-modelFuture of LawThe law firm partnership model is in the process of evolution. We explore the impact of this change and the risks and benefits of introducing new partners.Fri, 26 Apr 2024 14:15:57 Z<p>Our report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre</a>?, explores the evolution of the partnership model. The partnership model was once, quite simply, the only choice in career path. It was the dream: partners shared profits, liabilities, and management of firms. But, due to the shifting ambitions of associates, new demands in the market, and <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-city-firms-can-counter-the-threat-of-the-big-four">new competitive forces</a>, the partnership model is fading, at least in its earlier form.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> shows 49% of law firm leaders believe associates are less interested in becoming partner, and only 25% of associates want to make partner at their current firm in the next five years. A statistic that drops to 22% for associates at large law firms and 23% at medium-sized firms. The <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-declining-allure-of-the-partnership-model">allure of the partnership model</a> has declined, but not gone away entirely. The model is evolving to meet new demands. </p><p>In this article, we track this evolution and explore the pros and cons of taking on partners versus keeping equity tight. </p><h4>The evolution of the partnership model </h4><p>Associates re-evaluated their priorities during and after the pandemic. <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-can-law-firms-meet-the-work-life-balance-demand">Work-life balance</a> became important: more than two-thirds (71%) placed it in their top priorities. Partnership, with all the perceived stress, long hours and the <a href="https://hbr.org/2021/01/work-life-balance-is-a-cycle-not-an-achievement" data-sf-ec-immutable="">work-life imbalance</a>, has dwindled as an aspiration.&nbsp;</p><p>Law firms started changing to meet new ambitions. For example, <a href="https://www.slaughterandmay.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Slaughter and May</a> offer a 'switch on/switch off' scheme, allowing associates to reduce hours to 0.9 or 0.8 FTE, in exchange for reduced remuneration. Slaughter and May also allow associates to take accrued non-working time off in pre-arranged blocks. The changes boost flexibility and ensure long-term career paths, hoping to prioritise work-life balance.&nbsp;</p><p>Many firms are following suit, aiming to reduce demands on associates. The move seems a counter-argument to the <a href="/research-and-reports/the-three-competitive-threats-facing-city-law-firms.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">pitch of US firms</a>, which have disrupted the UK market in recent years and have enticed top talent with promises of high pay. Reduced time demands in UK firms is particularly appealing as US firms demand so much. <a href="https://www.legalcheek.com/2021/01/revealed-law-firms-average-work-from-home-start-and-finish-times-2020-21/" data-sf-ec-immutable=" href="https://www.legalcheek.com/2021/01/revealed-law-firms-average-work-from-home-start-and-finish-times-2020-21/" data-sf-ec-immutable=""></a href="https://www.legalcheek.com/2021/01/revealed-law-firms-average-work-from-home-start-and-finish-times-2020-21/" data-sf-ec-immutable="></p>urn:uuid:0c8841a0-74cb-4aa5-900e-18116aa5937f/blog/future-of-law/how-uk-us-law-firms-are-meeting-associate-ambitionsFuture of LawWe examine how UK and US law firms are meeting shifting associate expectations around different approaches towards compensation, work-life balance, and career development.Sun, 21 Apr 2024 23:00:00 Z<p>Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre?</a>, explores the shifting ambitions of associates and the future of the partnership model. <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> demonstrates that the partnership model, with lawyers working up the ranks, no longer seems inevitable.&nbsp;</p><p>The implications are being felt across the legal sector globally. <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/are-city-law-firms-ready-to-tackle-a-triad-of-threats">UK and US law firms</a> are witnessing changing priorities, struggling with retention and recruitment, and trying to meet the demands of the moment. </p><p>Here, we compare UK and US law firms' associate expectations, exploring key differences in pay, work-life balance, and career development. </p><h4>How UK and US law firms compare in terms of pay </h4><p><a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> revealed that 71% of associates place work-life balance on their list of top priorities. That's partly driven by new opportunities: lawyers have more options and more potential career paths than ever, ranging from <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/5-exciting-new-career-paths-for-junior-lawyers">freelancing</a> to <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/alsps-share-their-thoughts-on-why-in-house-legal-teams-aren-t-adopting-legal-technology">alternative legal service providers</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/in-house-teams-a-technology-driven-success-story">platform law</a>. But shifting ambitions are also driven by negative perceptions: <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">the report </a>shows that associates believe partners suffer from a <a href="https://hbr.org/2021/01/work-life-balance-is-a-cycle-not-an-achievement" data-sf-ec-immutable="">work-life imbalance</a>, which puts off many aspiring lawyers. However, this is only one side of the story. </p><p>When asked which changes would encourage associates to remain at their existing firms, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a> found that 70% of associates referenced a higher salary and only 36% referenced a better work-life balance. Work-life balance is clearly a priority, but pay can prove decisive. One solicitor, with two decades of experience working in human rights and civil litigation, neatly summed up the situation: "In my experience, in the early stages of their career very few [junior lawyers] favour experience and knowledge over remuneration."&nbsp;</p><p>Pay has long been a retention problem for UK firms. The <a href="https://www.pwc.co.uk/industries/legal-professional-business-support-services/law-firms-survey.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">PwC's Annual Law Firm's 2023</a> survey suggested that US law firms are pushing their way into the UK legal market, partly due to their ability to offer higher pay packages. The top UK firms pay roughly 35-40% less than US peers, according to a <a href="https://news.bloomberglaw.com/business-and-practice/elite-uk-firms-are-losing-london-salary-battle-to-us-invaders" data-sf-ec-immutable="">London-based legal recruiter</a>. Even Magic Circle firms aren't able to match elite firms when it comes to associate salaries, despite the continuous US expansion. </p><p>UK firms largely operate <a href="https://hrzone.com/glossary/what-is-lockstep-compensation/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">lockstep remuneration models</a>, with partner seniority determining pay. That means</p>urn:uuid:7c47c9a5-28f1-4656-a1e3-92cb5ad2ecf6/blog/future-of-law/what-career-paths-will-replace-the-partnership-modelFuture of LawThe demand for a better work-life balance has transformed the legal sector. We explore how law firms are rising to meet those expectations by offering new opportunities and new career paths.Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:49:08 Z<p>Our new report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre?</a> unveils different career paths for lawyers. Ones that move away from the traditional partnership model. It unveils how the assumed routes to success, finding a good firm and staying put until you make partner, are no longer end-goals for many lawyers.&nbsp;</p><p>One surprising statistic from <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a> demonstrated that, despite awareness of <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-city-firms-can-counter-the-threat-of-the-big-four">new legal models</a> and a degree of apathy towards the partnership model, three-quarters (75%) of associates plan to stay in Private Practice over the next five years. </p><p>This invites questions: are lawyers intrigued by new opportunities within firms? Has the <a href="/legal/news/the-work-life-balance-in-a-law-firm" data-sf-ec-immutable="">pull of a better work-life balance</a> dampened the push for partner? Are lawyers happy coasting instead of pushing themselves? </p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> found the legal sector, like most sectors, has been transformed in the years directly following the pandemic. It found a sector in flux, with age-old assumptions and normative traditions challenged. In this article, we explore how new priorities have led to new career paths and look at some of the firms forging unique paths to retain talented lawyers. </p><h4>The demand for new career options at law firms </h4><p>The pursuit of a <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-can-law-firms-meet-the-work-life-balance-demand">greater work-life balance</a>, hastened by shifting priorities during and following the pandemic, has been the main driver of change. Law firms are well aware of the shift in priorities with the popularity of remote and flexible working now well-defined across the sector. <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> found only 7% of lawyers at Private Practice firms were happy staying in the same position, while 26% wanted to be promoted to a position below partner. Most <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-declining-allure-of-the-partnership-model">didn't want to follow the partnership route</a><. There's a degree of uncertainty, but this is driven by the diversity of options. <</p>urn:uuid:c077c6de-8bd0-4346-9aa6-550d0adec37a/blog/future-of-law/how-can-law-firms-meet-the-work-life-balance-demandFuture of LawA better work-life balance is now a priority. But what does this mean for lawyers and law firms?Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:48:01 Z<p>Our new report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602807__all_segments__disloyal_lawyers" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre</a>, shows that lawyers at different stages of their careers seek a greater work-life balance. Our&nbsp;<a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602807__all_segments__disloyal_lawyers" data-sf-ec-immutable="">survey of more than 500+ lawyers</a> found work-life balance was the most importance factor when looking to move firms.&nbsp;</p><p>Here, we look at the reasons lawyers demand a better work-life balance, explore how this rising demand impacts the sector, and discuss how firms can meet that demand. </p><h4>The pandemic and shifting priorities </h4><p>The <a href="https://www.edelman.com/trust/trust-barometer" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Edelman Trust Barometer</a> explains that employees wanted a work-life reset. Changes in the world since the pandemic have forced people to re-examine their priorities. According to <a href="https://www.edelman.com/trust/trust-barometer" data-sf-ec-immutable="">the Barometer</a>, more than two-thirds (67%) of employees are re-evaluating how they spend their time and 72% believe employers need to rethink what work means to employees.&nbsp;</p><p>The pandemic was the catalyst. The changes in working life, hastened by necessity, shifted attitudes towards work. Remote working seemed a quick solution to a short-term problem, but instead led to long-term questions around the role of the office, the flexibility of organisations, and the best routes to productivity. </p><p>Lawyers, like many other employees, didn't want to return to the office. They wanted more flexibility, and law firms had to level with that new reality. Many realised these changes were mutually beneficial. For example, the <a href="https://www.cosocloud.com/press-releases/coso-survey-shows-working-remotely-benefits-employers-and-employees" data-sf-ec-immutable="">CoSo Cloud Survey</a> found 77% of remote employees felt more productive, and the <a href="https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/remote-work-statistics/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">FlexJobs report</a>&nbsp;found employees faced fewer distractions when working from home. Furthermore, the <a href="https://www.greatplacetowork.com/resources/blog/remote-work-productivity-study-finds-surprising-reality-2-year-study" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Great Place to Work</a> report, which depends on data gathered from over 800,000 employees at <a href="https://fortune.com/ranking/fortune500/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Fortune 500</a> companies found not only greater productivity from flexible remote workers, but improved wellbeing, reduced personal costs, and greater satisfaction. </p><h4>The Great Resignation and reduced stigma</h4><p><a href="https: href="/"></a href="https:></p>urn:uuid:f933b792-29ff-429d-8b4a-eb5a4b85adf7/blog/future-of-law/the-potential-of-ai-for-lawyers-from-academic-institutionsFuture of LawWe explore the potential of generative AI on the future of legal academic institutions and look at how lawyers can work to maximise impact while mitigating ethical concerns.Thu, 11 Apr 2024 12:34:55 Z<p>Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602739__all_segments__generative_ai_survey_h1_2024" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, shows an accelerated use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) across the legal sector. The <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/explore-the-growing-appetite-for-legal-ai">appetite is huge</a> among lawyers, with adoption rates more than doubling from just <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">11% of lawyers in July 2023</a> to over a quarter (26%) in January 2024. But, as ever with the latest tech developments, adoption of generative AI has proved uneven, with certain parts of the legal sector more enthusiastic than others.&nbsp;</p><p>Lawyers from academic institutions have proven the most enthusiastic, with 33% of respondents from academic institutions regularly using AI compared to the overall use of 26%. Lawyers from academic institutions use AI <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-small-law-firms-can-mitigate-the-risks-of-generative-ai">more than small</a> and large law firms, and more than <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-generative-ai-will-change-the-nature-of-in-house-work">in-house lawyers</a> and <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/generative-ai-the-bar-overcoming-hallucinations">lawyers at the Bar</a>. But, while academic lawyers are profoundly enthusiastic, they're also the most concerned about the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]DAB99E6B-08FF-4788-AE71-6B01D9199FDD/ai-use-risks-ethics-in-annual-reporting">ethical implications</a> of AI, and most aware of the <a href="https://hbr.org/2023/06/managing-the-risks-of-generative-ai" data-sf-ec-immutable="">moral hazards</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Lawyers in academic institutions are proving a paradox, boasting both enthusiasm and caution. In this article, we explore the potential of generative AI on the future of legal academic institutions and look at how academic lawyers can work to maximise the impact of generative AI while mitigating risks. </p><p><em>AI has arrived and the landscape is changing. Discover <a href="/event/lexis-plus-demonstration-uk.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI Insiders</a>. Join today and stay ahead of the curve.</em> </p><h4>The application of AI in legal academia </h4><p>As mentioned above, lawyers from academic institutions are utilising AI more than any other section of the legal sector. Academic lawyers are not simply adopting the tech, but have been <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/five-tips-how-in-house-lawyers-can-streamline-workflows">implementing and integrating it across operations</a>. For example, only 22% of <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602739__all_segments__generative_ai_survey_h1_2024" data-sf-ec-immuta href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602739__all_segments__generative_ai_survey_h1_2024"></a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602739__all_segments__generative_ai_survey_h1_2024" data-sf-ec-immuta></p>urn:uuid:58746cc4-9e2c-4f90-8ef5-02d277bd2240/blog/future-of-law/the-declining-allure-of-the-partnership-modelFuture of LawWe explore the core drivers behind the decline in the partnership model, such as the prioritisation of work-life balance and the rise of alternative legal service models.Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:26:32 Z<p>Our new report, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Disloyal lawyers: has the partner track lost its lustre</a>, explores the shifting ambitions of associates, the urgent needs of legal leaders, and the future of the partnership model. This model, where partners share profits, liabilities, and management of the firm, has long been a staple structure of legal practices. But, <a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a> demonstrates how the dream of making partner is quickly fading.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/disloyal-lawyers-and-the-partnership-model.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> shows less than half (49%) of law firm leaders think the current generation of associates are interested in becoming partner. It also reveals that only a quarter (25%) of associates want to make partner at their current firm within the next five years, dropping to 22% for lawyers at large firms and 23% at medium-sized firms. Leaders and associates agree: the allure of partnership is in decline. This raises key questions: What's driving that decline? What are the causes of shifting ambitions? How should firms react? </p><p>Here, we explore the core drivers of the decline in the demand for partnership and the increasing importance of <a href="https://hbr.org/2021/01/work-life-balance-is-a-cycle-not-an-achievement" data-sf-ec-immutable="">work-life balance</a>, including the diverse options available to associates. </p><h4>The increasing value of work-life balance </h4><p>The pandemic drove the shift in priorities towards a better work-life balance. And, by the necessity of lockdowns, inadvertently led to improvements in working life, particularly with remote working. This is further reinforced with Gen Z prioritising their work-life balance, and Millennials are proving instrumental. <a href="https://www.cityam.com/gen-z-will-work-hard-but-not-while-stressed-millennials-stay-home/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Generations Expert, Dr Eliza Philby</a>, explains: 'The major puzzle piece is not Gen Z's desire for work-life balance but Millennial managers who are juggling kids, the mortgage rate crisis, have done the ten-year slog and don't want to commute.'</p><p>Shifting priorities, across various generations, has led to a shifting mindset in the approach to the partnership model. Moira Slape, Chief People Officer at <a href="https://www.traverssmith.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Travers Smith</a>, says the allure of partner has lessened as a result: 'The mindset has s</p>urn:uuid:b0f4422e-b349-4002-9b17-a23a84e57b71/blog/future-of-law/why-should-caribbean-attorneys-invest-in-technologyFuture of LawIn an age of technological advancement, the legal sector, once seen as resistant to change, is now embracing innovation to improve efficiency and stay competitive. Caribbean attorneys, as indicated by research from UU����ֱ��, are recognizing the importance of investing in technology to streamline processes, access legal resources, enhance client communication, adapt to remote work trends, and gain a competitive edge. By leveraging technology, attorneys can boost productivity, provide better services to clients, and position themselves for future success in an evolving legal landscape dominated by AI and digital solutions.Thu, 04 Apr 2024 13:06:47 Z<p>In an era of rapid technology advancement, industries across the board are embracing innovation to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and stay ahead of the curve. The legal sector, traditionally perceived as conservative and resistant to change, is not immune to this trend. <br><strong><br></strong>The legal profession is steeped in tradition but as technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it's becoming clear that the industry must adapt, or risk being left behind.</p><p>According to the <a href="/insights/caribbean-legal-report-2023-changing-tides/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">Caribbean legal research</a> from UU����ֱ�� Caribbean attorneys are well aware of that.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>When asked about the specific ways in which firms plan to grow, one popular choice was to increase investment in technology. Nearly half of respondents (49%) said they had plans to increase their investment in their processes and technology, while just over a quarter (29%) had already done so. In a similar vein, 41% of respondents said they planned to pour more money into their website, while 35% said this was something they have already implemented. In this blog post, we'll explore why Caribbean attorneys should invest in technology and how it can revolutionize their legal practice.</p><p><strong>1) Efficiency and productivity:</strong></p><p><strong><ins cite="mailto:Patel,%20Rakhee%20(LNG-LON)" datetime="2024-02-22T16:48"></ins></strong><br><strong><ins cite="mailto:Patel,%20Rakhee%20(LNG-LON)" datetime="2024-02-22T16:48"></ins></strong>One of the primary reasons Caribbean attorneys should invest in technology is the significant boost it provides to efficiency and productivity. Repetitive tasks</p>urn:uuid:e80bd59c-9ee5-4192-bdd3-45cd8bd905cc/blog/future-of-law/explore-the-growing-appetite-for-legal-aiFuture of LawOur report, Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI, revealed rapid acceleration in the adoption of generative AI in the legal market. In this article, we summarise the key takeaways from the report and explore its potential long-lasting impact in all areas of the sector, including pricing.Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:00:00 Z<p>Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, demonstrates a rapid increase in the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). The report shows adoption rates have more than doubled in the past six months alone, with 26% of lawyers now regularly using generative AI tools, compared to just 11% in a comparable survey from <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">July 2023</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>This upward trend looks likely to continue. More than a third (35%) of lawyers suggested they plan to use AI in the future. In particular, <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/should-law-firms-disclose-the-use-of-generative-ai">in-house lawyers</a> professed a strong appetite, with more than two-fifths (42%) alluding to plans to incorporate AI into legal work. </p><p>It's not just AI adoption that's increased. <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report</a> also showed that 65% of lawyers felt increasingly confident using AI platforms grounded on legal research, especially when using AI tools built on trusted legal content sources, such as <a href="/event/lexis-plus-demonstration-uk.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI</a>. The overall perception of AI has shifted and, in the future, the appetite for adoption is expected to continue to grow. </p><p>In this article, we look at the <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">key takeaways from the report</a> and track the accelerated adoption of AI across the legal industry. We explore, among other things, how lawyers are preparing for AI, the demand for AI accountability, and how AI will <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-generative-ai-will-transform-pricing-in-law">impact future pricing models</a>. </p><h4>Lawyers gear up for generative AI </h4><p>The appetite for generative AI in law is unprecedented, with <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-generative-ai-helps-law-firms-to-compete">lawyers from across the sector</a> embracing the tech. As mentioned above, more than a quarter of lawyers now regularly use AI. Academic institutions and large law firms also proved to be eager to use such tools, at 33% and 32% respectively. </p><p>Future plans show more enthusiasm. Only 39% of lawyers in <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-ge href="/"></a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-ge></p>urn:uuid:34af6192-5f11-4171-96b1-7e867fecb20e/blog/future-of-law/are-the-sra-accounts-rules-just-for-the-accounts-department-in-a-law-firm-to-knowFuture of LawKaren Edwards from the Institute of Legal Finance and Management discusses the SRA Accounts Rules from a legal practice perspective.Fri, 15 Mar 2024 13:49:53 Zurn:uuid:727d5417-d72d-4ede-b0e3-2dec2356e68f/blog/future-of-law/how-can-you-use-organic-social-growth-to-nurture-your-corporate-brandFuture of LawThe topic of our most recent webinar was a tool that we believe all firms should use to their advantage: organic social media. Hosted by Laura Halls, Social Media and Content Marketing Manager at UU����ֱ��, the session tackled what organic social media is, and how you can use it to cost-effectively raise your profile, build your client base, and even measure an ROI on your efforts.Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:43:21 Z<div><p paraid="495037630" paraeid="{c8e54d45-fc08-4016-b34b-74e4cb908d01}{189}">The topic of our most recent webinar was a tool that we believe <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/why-lawyers-should-embrace-social-media-not-fear-it" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">all firms should use to their advantage</a>: organic social media. Hosted by Laura Halls, Social Media and Content Marketing Manager at UU����ֱ��, the session tackled what organic social media is, and how you can use it to cost-effectively raise your profile, build your client base, and even measure an ROI on your efforts.&nbsp;</p></div><div><p paraid="40489299" paraeid="{bab8df46-b81b-4435-b625-90a4dc1c5d73}{32}">Let&rsquo;s take a look at four key learnings we took away from the event: &nbsp;</p></div><div><h4 paraid="1357167005" paraeid="{bab8df46-b81b-4435-b625-90a4dc1c5d73}{50}">1. Linkedin&rsquo;s personal profile v company page: what&rsquo;s the difference? &nbsp;</h4></div><div><p paraid="399197289" paraeid="{bab8df46-b81b-4435-b625-90a4dc1c5d73}{67}">Though it might sound obvious, when it comes to Linkedin, your company page plays a very different role to your personal profile. Think of it in terms of the &lsquo;push&rsquo; and &lsquo;pull&rsquo; effect: while your personal profile allows you to make connections, build a network, and reach out to prospects, your company profile is the space to showcase your firm&rsquo;s brand. That&rsquo;s not just the work you offer, but the values your firm stands for. It&rsquo;s a page that contacts both your immediate network and further, so they can &lsquo;follow&rsquo; for an idea of your culture, as well as services. It offers you not only analytics, to measure how your audience is engaging with you, but helpful suggestions on the type of content your followers could find interesting.<span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span></p></div><div><h4 paraid="1696648283" paraeid="{bab8df46-b81b-4435-b625-90a4dc1c5d73}{213}">2. Twitter (or X):&nbsp; to use or not to use?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h4></div><div><p paraid="169055238" paraeid="{bab8df46-b81b-4435-b625-90a4dc1c5d73}{224}">There is no doubt that Twitter (or X) is a declining platform. 2023 has only demonstrated how undecided it is on its purpose, be that as a source of current events or as a platform that delivers <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2023/8/3/what-is-elon-musks-everything-app-and-what-can-it-learn-from-china" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-sf-ec-immutable="">&lsquo;everything&rsquo;</a>. It&rsquo;s not one to invest significant resources and time into right now, as the ROI simply is not there. But it&rsquo;s not one to ignore, either, with a significant number of legal professionals on the platform both in the UK </p></div>urn:uuid:09779232-23d7-4fac-aead-2ba1d6e29936/blog/future-of-law/how-generative-ai-will-transform-pricing-in-lawFuture of LawWe discuss how generative AI will significantly impact law firm pricing and may lead to different firms of billing.Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z<p>A conflict brews in the heart of the legal sector. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has arrived and the uptake has been encouraging. Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, shows that more than a quarter (26%) of lawyers use generative AI tools at least once per month. Adoption rates in the past six months alone have more than doubled.&nbsp;</p><p>The conflict exists in discerning who benefits from AI gains, especially around pricing. Generative AI streamlines operations, <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-to-automate-your-law-firm">automates small-scale processes</a>, and expedites legal research. It provides huge time- and cost-savings. The conflict surrounds who should benefit from such savings. Should it be <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/are-city-law-firms-ready-to-tackle-a-triad-of-threats">the firms investing</a> in tools alone? Or should benefits be passed on to their clients? Should in-house teams expect billing practices to change due to generative AI? </p><p>Below we discuss the potential problem of pricing and delve into the heart of the conflict, discussing two core points of contention: sharing the cost reductions and more effective forms of billing. </p><h4>The need to share cost reductions </h4><p>The problem of pricing was unveiled in <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our survey</a>. More than half (52%) of in-house teams and in-house lawyers <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/alternative-billing-the-secret-to-a-better-work-life-balance-for-lawyers">expect bills to reduce</a> as a result of generative AI. Respondents from law firms, on the other hand, seemed less certain, with only 40% suggesting that they expected bills to be reduced. Such contrasting opinions form the crux of the pricing problem. </p><p>Properly trained generative AI systems grounded in legal data overseen by humans with an awareness of real-world impacts, will drastically improve the nature of legal work. Mark Smith, Director of Strategic Markets at <a href="/blog" data-sf-ec-immutable="">UU����ֱ��</a>, says that AI can ensure legal tasks are undertaken faster and at a higher quality than by a human alone:&nbsp;</p><p>"The impact on price will depend on many different factors &ndash; the importance and number of those tasks in the overall workflow, the pricing mechanism at play, the commercial relationship between the client and law firm, and the overall level of competition in that segment of the market."&nbsp;</p><p>Various elements play a role, but the inescapable fact is that AI, properly executed, certainly saves money and time. According to John Quinn, Founder and Chairman of <a href="https://www.quinnemanuel.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Quinn Emanual</a></p>urn:uuid:a7f5fcf6-d8c0-4abb-b269-e6a49f0680d3/blog/future-of-law/churchill-v-merthyr-tydfil-is-adr-no-longer-an-alternativeFuture of LawRead highlights from our webinar which explored whether ADR is no longer an option, but set to become a compulsory part of the claims procedure following Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil.Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:00:00 Z<p>We were delighted to host a webinar on alternate dispute resolution (ADR) following the Court of Appeal&rsquo;s decision in <em>Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council</em> [2023] EWCA Civ 1416, which was handed down on 23 November 2023. We explored the implications of this case, and what it means from a practical perspective.</p><p>Moderated by Neda Feather, PSL in our Dispute Resolution team, our panel of experts included:</p><ul><li><strong>Iain Wightwick of Unity Street Chambers</strong> &ndash; Iain specialises in real property work and social housing and has championed the use of ADR in property law over the past 25 years. He was at first instance and remains counsel for the Council in <em>Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council</em>.</li><li><strong>Anna Gilbert, Counsel in Dispute Resolution at Hausfeld &amp; Co LLP</strong> &ndash; Anna specialises in commercial litigation and arbitration, with extensive experience in resolving complex disputes through ADR, Anna represents corporate and high net worth clients in a range of sectors, often involving multiple jurisdictions.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Rebecca Warder, Head of Knowledge Management at Hausfeld &amp; Co LLP and Deputy Chair at the London Chamber of Arbitration and Mediation</strong> &ndash; Rebecca is an experienced knowledge lawyer who has handled a wide range of high value disputes, both in litigation and arbitration, Rebecca has extensive experience of mediation.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>You can <a href="https://youtu.be/mq203RGs51A?si=R9O_HRRvFjwrhZvm" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">watch the full webinar here</a> or read on for the key insights from the session.</p><h4>Background of <em>Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council</em></h4><p>Iain introduced the case and noted that housing repair claims were not generally high value claims. The claimant, Mr. Churchill, noticed some Japanese knotweed growing on his property. Therefore, he instructed solicitors to commence proceedings against Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council (the Council) for not taking any steps against the knotweed that was going onto his property. The Council asked Mr. Churchill to use the Council&rsquo;s internal complaints process, which Churchill refused to do.&nbsp;</p><p>Before the lower court, the District Judge agreed with the Council that the internal complaints procedure should </p>urn:uuid:154d26f6-d4c9-4dec-96d0-15228373345f/blog/future-of-law/the-future-of-family-lawFuture of LawGraeme Fraser, Partner and Head of Family at BBS Law, shares his reflections on the key opportunities and challenges in the family law market, the digitisation of the courts and the impact of generative AI on the practice area.Wed, 06 Mar 2024 15:00:00 Z<p>The legal sector is evolving at a rapid pace, adapting to the numerous&nbsp;opportunities and challenges it faces. From the cost-of-living crisis, shifting client expectations, increasing demand for specialist knowledge, and the emergence of <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/tracking-the-irresistible-rise-of-generative-ai">generative artificial intelligence (AI) legal tech tools</a>, today&rsquo;s lawyers are embracing change. This is no different for <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/growing-areas-of-the-law-2024">family lawyers who&nbsp;are predicted to see&nbsp;a steady increase in demand in their practice area in 2024</a>, and who are using tech tools, such as the&nbsp;MyHMCTS portal, to reduce the current backlog in the courts.</p><p>We caught up with&nbsp;Graeme Fraser, Partner and Head of Family at <a href="https://bbslaw.co.uk/" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">BBS Law</a>&nbsp;to hear his insights on the future of family law. Read on for Graeme's reflections on the current key opportunities and challenges in the market, the digitisation of the courts and the impact of generative AI on the practice area.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>What are the key opportunities and challenges for family lawyers at the moment?</h4><p>Legal advice remains a primary need for clients going through divorce and separation. It is particularly important to provide clients with informed early advice. Following the advent of no-fault divorce, some work is becoming less contentious and easier to resolve. Family lawyers need to move away from adversarial approaches and adapt to a more transactional way of working including instructing a single lawyer for both clients. The recession means that consumers may be more reticent about separating, as they may not have enough money to afford rehousing. Family lawyers need to adapt their practices to ensure that we meet client needs which evolve because of financially straitened times. The increasing pressure on the Family Court means that many cases do not get heard quickly enough, deterring use of the Courts for those who can afford private processes including hybrid mediation, collaborative practice, and arbitration. We will need to ensure that the services that we offer make sense and appeal to consumers as being at reasonable cost. Where administrative work can be done more </p>urn:uuid:71a27326-2599-4ceb-bec2-f6e164d22088/blog/future-of-law/how-generative-ai-will-change-the-nature-of-in-house-workFuture of LawGenerative AI will change the nature of in-house legal work. We explore how in-house teams have addressed the risks of generative AI and explore how generative AI might impact pricing in the future.Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:00:00 Z<p><a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/generative-ai-the-expectations-of-in-house-teams">In-house legal teams </a>have pioneered generative artificial intelligence (AI) adoption. </p><p>Our report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, demonstrates in-house teams are often time-poor, deal with low-value but high-volume tasks, and typically work in organisations with a greater appetite for risk. Simply, in-house teams are better prepared for AI adoption.&nbsp;</p><p>But, despite this, in-house teams face several risks and challenges around generative AI which has translated into caution, particularly around the external use of generative AI. We've also seen challenges around billing, with in-house teams and firms at odds with pricing expectations. </p><p>This article will explore the core risks associated with free-to-use generative AI platforms, discuss how teams can overcome such risks, and look at how to approach pricing challenges. </p><h4>In-house teams and the associated risks of AI</h4><p>In our July 2023 survey, 70% of in-house teams expected external counsel to use generative AI.&nbsp;That number sharply declined to just 57% in <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">January 2024</a>. Mark Smith, Director of Strategic Markets at <a href="/blog" data-sf-ec-immutable="">UU����ֱ��</a>, says risks around accuracy, quality, and security justify declining expectations: "I suspect the number one reason is accuracy and fear of having the wrong advice, particularly heightened by issues with free-to-use generative AI."</p><p>Respondents cited the following as the most pressing risks of adopting generative AI: <a href="/insights/how-to-practice-ethical-use-of-ai-in-law/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">hallucinations</a> (57%), security issues (55%), and the tech not being trustworthy enough (55%). Only 10% cited no concerns about generative AI. Free-to-use generative AI platforms create accuracy risk. Accuracy issues occur due to platforms trained on poor data sets, which create incorrect or misleading information to fill in knowledge gaps or reveal false information based on false inputs. </p><p>Accuracy is a huge area of concern and one where in-house teams can't afford to get wrong. In-house lawyers are hired for their specialist knowledge and legal expertise. That knowledge informs legal issues <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/lawyer-or-leader-how-in-house-counsel-can-navigate-this-paradox">but increasingly defines strategic objectives</a>, influences commercial outcomes, and even delves into ethical decisions. If <a href="[f669d9a7 href="/"></a href="[f669d9a7></p>urn:uuid:1b3daae0-b04c-4afa-9d36-b9b5f63a0318/blog/future-of-law/generative-ai-the-bar-overcoming-hallucinationsFuture of LawWe explore the rise of the use of generative artificial intelligence at the Bar, discuss the emerging concerns around hallucinations, and offer some practical tips to help avoid them.Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z<p>Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has become a key talking point across the world. Initially slow to adopt the tech, the <a href="/insights/generative-ai-why-lawyers-need-complete-transparency/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">legal sector has now opened its arms</a> and embraced it. In the last six months, according to our new report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, the use of this rapidly evolving tech in law has doubled. As of January 2024, more than a quarter (26%) of respondents revealed they're using generative AI tools at least once a month, a noticeable rise from only 11% of respondents in <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">July 2023</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>The <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/tracking-the-irresistible-rise-of-generative-ai">rise of generative AI</a> has amplified many of its benefits, allowing the less tech-savvy to take advantage. But its rise has also showcased the risks, of which barristers are well aware. For example, only 10% of legal experts in <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a> said they had no concerns about generative AI, 90% cited some risks, 57% of respondents noted concerns <a href="https://cloud.google.com/discover/what-are-ai-hallucinations" data-sf-ec-immutable="">around hallucinations</a> and 55% noted issues with trusting generative AI platforms. </p><p>AI has arrived at the Bar, but these&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/ai-hallucinations" data-sf-ec-immutable="">concerns around hallucinations</a> still limit widespread adoption. They're justified, but simple measures can help barristers limit or even completely remove this risk. </p><p>Below we discuss the ethical implications of hallucinations, explore why they're a valid concern, and look at the best ways for barristers to avoid them. </p><h4>Why hallucinations are the primary concern</h4><p>Our report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, unveils why hallucinations are a core concern at the Bar. In the simplest terms, the risk is the reliance upon erroneous information, and the degree of risk depends on the application. For a humanities student, hallucinations result in an incorrect sentence, and maybe a bad grade. For a marketing assistant, the hallucination might lead to an incorrect social media post, or false stats in a presentation leading to a negative opinion of their competency. But for barristers, the risks are far more excessive. A hallucination could cause significant harm. </p><p>Barristers trade on their reputation which is upheld by consistent and quality work, providing the</p>urn:uuid:05388771-34b9-49bc-bf0d-ff9d331cc2a1/blog/future-of-law/real-models-mark-wilsonFuture of LawOur REAL Models series showcases the diverse range of roles we have across our business and we hope to improve knowledge around what it means to be part of something bigger. We believe being part of UU����ֱ�� means being part of the change you want to see in the world.Fri, 23 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z<p>Our <strong>REAL Models</strong> series showcases the diverse range of roles we have across our business and we hope to improve knowledge around what it means to be part of something bigger. We believe being part of UU����ֱ�� means being part of the change you want to see in the world.&nbsp;</p><p>In this month's edition, we meet: </p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Mark Wilson, Senior Product Manager&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Mark joined the company in 2000 as an Editorial Manager in Tax for the-then Textbooks team, after previously having editorial roles. In 2007, he moved into more technology focused roles, and went into the Content Solutions team in 2007.&nbsp;</p><p>Mark started my Product Development career in 2019, with a six-month secondment working as a Product Owner, and after developing a taste for how we maintain products at UU����ֱ��, he accepted a full-time role with the Product team. </p><p>As a Product Manager in Legal markets, Mark's focus is on the support and delivery of Lexis+, and is responsible for Legislation and Search. Mark leads product discover to understand customer needs, using insight gained from discovery and then collaborating with other teams to deliver these solutions, as well as providing support on customer queries.&nbsp;</p><p>Discover more about <a href="/products/lexis-plus-trial.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social#signup-form" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+</a>.</p><h4>My typical day...</h4><p>"My alarm goes off at 7am, but I'm a morning person so I'm usually up and about before then. I take a quick look at the day's headlines before sitting down to read a comic with breakfast, I've been an avid collector of comics and graphic numbers for as long as I can remember. Breakfast is the perfect opportunity to chip away at my ever-growing to-read pile.</p><p>"I tend to be at my desk by 7.45am, and usually our Staffie, Stukey, wanders in to say hello, he's definitely not a morning person! It's a nice way to start the day. </p><p>"I normally start the working day checking and responding to emails and checking the work tickets, before a stand-up with the development team at 10am. After that, it could be anything at all!&nbsp;</p><p>"As a Product Manager, you're always juggling several projects, at several stages. I can go from answering queries from Customer Services, to quality checking, t</p>urn:uuid:5bd2c969-b49f-4df4-8bf2-61fd7fcdc721/blog/future-of-law/how-small-law-firms-can-mitigate-the-risks-of-generative-aiFuture of LawWe explore how small law firms can use safe, secure, reliable and accurate generative AI platforms, ensuring they receive the many benefits and avoid potential risks.Mon, 19 Feb 2024 09:00:00 Z<p>The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has grown across the legal sector. <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/top-ways-in-house-teams-can-apply-generative-ai">In-house lawyers</a> have been utilising the tech for months, large law firms are following suit with increased use, and even smaller firms are employing the tech. According to our report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602739__all_segments__generative_ai_survey_h1_2024" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, more than a quarter (26%) of respondents are using AI once a month, a rise from just 11% in <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">July 2023</a>. To put it simply: generative AI has <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/how-will-ai-impact-the-future-of-legal-operations">changed the nature of legal operations</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Respondents from academic institutions and large law firms were the most likely to use AI tools for work, at 33% and 32% respectively. The least stemmed from small law firms. That's likely because smaller firms are typically more cautious than larger firms, often lack the investment capabilities to onboard legal tech, and don't possess the same appetite for risk. </p><p>And, as shown in <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html?utm_source=linkedin&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=602739__all_segments__generative_ai_survey_h1_2024" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a>, the legal sector clearly understands the risks. In this article, we explore the report and examine how small law firms can onboard safe, secure, reliable, and accurate AI tools, claiming the myriad of benefits and drastically minimising the acknowledged risks. </p><h4>The risks of generative AI for small firms </h4><p>Small law firms stand to benefit the most from generative AI. Their processes can feel sluggish and inefficient, lacking the benefit of innovation. Admin and comms are often non-standardised, due to the absence of automation, and they're typically not able to invest massive sums in the latest legal tech. Generative AI can <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/five-tips-how-in-house-lawyers-can-streamline-workflows">quickly streamline</a> or <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-to-automate-your-law-firm">automate</a> small law firm processes, ranging from contract drafting and management, internal and external chatbots, predictive analysis to improve r</p>urn:uuid:0f628ac6-f455-4eb2-b4e4-f248832043a7/blog/future-of-law/generative-ai-the-expectations-of-in-house-teamsFuture of LawWe explore how using AI platforms that provide effective human oversight, an awareness of real-world impacts, and accurate outputs can boost AI use across the legal sector.Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:15:00 Z<p>There has been an <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/tracking-the-irresistible-rise-of-generative-ai">irresistible and unstoppable rise</a> of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal sector. Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, demonstrates that more than a quarter (26%) of lawyers and legal experts use generative AI tools at least monthly, a notable rise from only 11% in our <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">July 2023 survey</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Adoption rates across the sector have more than doubled in the past six months as the legal market has recognised the potential of AI. </p><p>Despite the growth, an aversion to AI remains. <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Our report </a>shows the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/why-using-ai-should-be-the-expectation-for-legal-counsel">number of in-house teams</a> expecting external counsel to use generative AI reached 70% in the <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">July 2023 report</a>, but has declined to 57% in January 2024. </p><p>Mark Smith, Director of Strategic Markets at <a href="/blog" data-sf-ec-immutable="">UU����ֱ��</a> argues that fears around the accuracy, quality, and security of information explains the declining expectations: "I suspect the number one reason is accuracy and fear of having the wrong advice, particularly heightened by issues with free-to-use generative AI." </p><p>In this article, we dig deeper into key insights from <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a>, explore the core concerns that have led to a decline in the expected use of AI, and explore how large firms can use AI efficiently and responsibly. </p><h4>Concerns over reliability, accuracy, and security</h4><p>In-house legal teams have been the pioneers of generative AI in the sector. The reasons are simple: in-house teams are generally time poor, deal with high-volume and low-value tasks that are <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-to-automate-your-law-firm">ripe for automation</a>, and often have the backing of businesses that are more comfortable with innovation, are willing to invest in tech and are less risk-averse than large law firms. </p><p>It was n</p>urn:uuid:abecfa42-efd3-43e5-b7cf-6dbca615976f/blog/future-of-law/small-law-firm-pricing-strategies-in-the-age-of-aiFuture of LawThis article is a recap of our recent lively webinar on small law firm pricing strategies in the age of AI. Read on for the key takeaways from the session.Mon, 12 Feb 2024 16:51:38 Z<p>We were delighted to host a virtual event exploring how small law firms approach pricing strategies in an age where clients demand &lsquo;value&rsquo; more than ever before.</p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Our lively session also tackled what the arrival of generative AI means for those running small firms- and why they shouldn&rsquo;t be intimidated by its evolution.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Moderated by Law Firm Strategy and Development Consultant Jon Whittle, our panel of experts included Alex Hamilton, CEO and Founder of Radiant Law, Shaun Jardine, Pricing Consultant of Big Yellow Penguin and Joanna Kingston-Davies, COO of MAPD Group.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Read on for our key takeaways from the session&hellip;</span></p><h4><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">How can small firms get flexible pricing right?&nbsp;</span></h4><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">In this first section, John Whittle kicked off the session by reminding us that only <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">8% of small firms still exclusively bill by the hour</a>. This shift towards more flexible pricing comes at a time of immense pressure, both in terms of recruitment and growing client demands &ndash; with 80% of small firms investing in marketing to keep hold of clients, and three quarters of small firms intending to grow their headcount.</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Our panel discussed whether the decision to abandon the billable hour is wise &ndash; and the key considerations to make when introducing flexible pricing models. Here&rsquo;s what they found&hellip;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><strong></strong></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><strong>1. Adopting flexible pricing: crucial to address the perception gap&nbsp;</strong></span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">As Joanna Kingston-Davies pointed out, &ldquo;from a client&rsquo;s perspective, it [billing by the hour] is absolutely not relevant at all.&rdquo; For those paying for legal services, being billed by the hour can feel restrictive. In fact, according to a UU����ֱ�� <a href="/bellwether/assets/pdfs/bellwether-report-2015-age-of-the-client.pdf" data-sf-ec-immutable="">poll</a>, this contributes to a significant gap in perception between lawyers and their clients, with 80% of lawyers stating they perceived their service to be &ldquo;above average&rdquo; but only 40% of clients voting the same way.&nbsp;</span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">And with client demands only on the increase this year (with our </span><a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" style="font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;white-space:inherit;">Bellwether 2023</a><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"> report showing that 79% </span></p>urn:uuid:f57b6115-7a33-4127-b441-6fded032a086/blog/future-of-law/the-power-of-your-personal-brandFuture of LawThis article explains why creating a strong personal brand is key to success for independent law firms.Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:00:00 Zurn:uuid:3bad33fd-a9f8-4221-a31d-603549aac717/blog/future-of-law/tracking-the-irresistible-rise-of-generative-aiFuture of LawOur new report, Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI, shows the growing appetite for generative AI in the UK legal sector. We examine the rise of AI and examine how lawyers are using the tech with growing confidence.Mon, 12 Feb 2024 09:00:00 Z<p>Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, shows a significant and growing appetite for generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the UK, with more than a quarter (26%) of respondents using generative tools at least once a month. This figure has more than doubled from a comparable <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">survey from July 2023</a>. Our report also showed that almost two-thirds of lawyers felt increasingly confident using AI platforms grounded on legal research. </p><p>We're witnessing a tidal change in the perception and adoption of generative AI. It's clear while many still appreciate potential risks, general aversion to AI seems to have dissolved, paving the way for <a href="/insights/5fc8e390-9720-4adc-acea-2048bbbc1d97/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">lawyers to reap the benefits</a>. </p><p>In this article, we look at how attitudes in this sector are changing and discuss how the legal sector is exploring, onboarding, and utilising this rapidly evolving tech. </p><h4>The irresistible rise of generative AI </h4><p>Lawyers from small and large firms, legal academies and <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/five-legal-tech-trends-for-in-house-teams-in-2024">in-house counsel</a>, solicitors and barristers &mdash; all of them, across the sector, are embracing the power of generative AI. They've noticed the time- and cost-saving potential. In the past six months alone, adoption rates have more than doubled.&nbsp;</p><p>The latter half of 2023 saw AI transition from theory to practice. The tech transitioned from a talking point to an action point. In our report from <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">July 2023</a> slightly more than one in ten respondents used generative AI monthly, compared to our January 2024 report, <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lawyers cross into the new era of generative AI</a>, where the same number (11%) are now using generative AI weekly, with a much higher number (26%) using it monthly. Academic institutions and large firms are proving to be the most common users, at 33% and 32% respectively. </p><p>The current usage shows a sharp upward trend, and based on findings from <a href="/research-and-reports/lawyers-cross-into-the-new-era-of-generative-ai.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a>, this doesn't look set to slow down. A significant number of lawyers revealed plans to use generative AI tools in the future: 35% of lawyers alluded to future plans. In-house lawyers demonstrated a particularly strong appetite: 42% suggested they planne</p>urn:uuid:1a56629e-cc38-4b46-805c-5128b9bddfc3/blog/future-of-law/real-models-hannah-tsoiFuture of LawOur REAL Models series showcases the diverse range of roles we have across our business and we hope to improve knowledge around what it means to be part of something bigger. We believe being part of UU����ֱ�� means being part of the change you want to see in the world.Fri, 26 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z<p>Our <strong>REAL Models</strong> series showcases the diverse range of roles we have across our business and we hope to improve knowledge around what it means to be part of something bigger.&nbsp;We believe being part of UU����ֱ�� means being part of the change you want to see in the world. </p><p>In this month's edition, we meet:</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Hannah Tsoi, Software Engineer.</strong></p><p>Hannah joined the company in July 2017 as a Consultant in the Content Solutions team, in the Woking office. Straight out of a software training camp, this was technically Hannah's first job.&nbsp;</p><p>Hannah said, "A year in, I was made a permanent UU����ֱ�� employee, and since then, they've been stuck with me!"&nbsp;</p><p>As a Software Engineer, Hannah is responsible for producing and maintaining the value that we provide to customers through our software products. Hannah deals with a variety of products and systems, but recently has been part of one of the fantastic teams making Lexis+ AI a reality in the UK!&nbsp;</p><p><em>We've announced the launch of our commercial preview of <a href="/lexis-plus/lexis-plus-ai.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI in the UK</a>. Lexis+ AI has been carefully trained on UK law and legal cases.&nbsp;</em></p><p>Hannah's also part of the amazing LNUK Pride Employee Resource Group, where she runs events and sits as the communications lead. </p><p>Discover more about our <a href="/about-us/inclusion-and-diversity" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Employee Resource Groups</a>.&nbsp;</p><h4>A typical day</h4><p>"My alarm goes off </p>urn:uuid:eb142943-43f5-40ad-b731-c5c9492704f5/blog/future-of-law/can-digitisation-improve-access-to-family-justiceFuture of LawHere we summarise the discussion between family practitioners during #FamilyLawHour's session on the digitisation of family law proceedings and access to justice.Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:00:00 Z<p>In early January, just as most people were returning to work after the holidays, a gratifying number of family lawyers logged on to X (formerly Twitter) to join in #FamilyLawHour on the topic of the digitisation of family proceedings and access to justice. </p><p>This family law community event is organised by <a href="https://twitter.com/FamilyLawHour" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">@FamilyLawHour</a> and takes place on the first Tuesday of each month, with a different topic and host each time. The #FamilyLawHour team kindly invited me to host this month&rsquo;s event and I chose digitisation as an area that is fast changing the landscape of family law. Having drafted some questions in advance and prepared polls to gather views on key areas, it was great to see both the level of interest in this area and also a general consensus as to both the advantages and disadvantages of digitisation.&nbsp;</p><p><em><a href="/legal/family-law" data-sf-ec-immutable="">View family law practice notes, precedents and news&nbsp;articles</a></em></p><h4>Does online access improve access to justice and increase dispute resolution (DR) outside of court?</h4><p>Generally, there was a positive response to the question of whether online access can improve access to justice and the take-up of non-court DR, but with some reservations as to general accessibility, for example:</p><blockquote style="margin-left:30px;"><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Alan Larkin&nbsp;</span><span style="background-color:initial;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">@larkinslaw: <em>"</em></span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><em>100% yes. Legal tech can scale in a way that human resources simply can&rsquo;t match. This is crucial for access to justice."</em></span> <span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span></blockquote><blockquote style="margin-left:30px;"><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Yaa Dankwa Ampadu-Sackey&nbsp;</span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">@ydankwa: <em>"</em></span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><em>Online access could improve access to justice but it depends on the extent of the resource. For example will these be available in other languages other than English? To what extent will these be modified for the visually impaired etc."</em></span></blockquote><blockquote style="margin-left:30px;"><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span>David Hodson&nbsp;@DMHodson: <em>"Online justice is in reality the only justice in the near future. It can provide so much more info and linked resources coupled with interactive forms. There will be soon no cf with the pre digital form of </em></blockquote>urn:uuid:3a00354d-0c76-47cb-8feb-485ba5b4bef1/blog/future-of-law/international-law-book-facility-ilbf-law-undergraduate-essay-competition-2023-2024Future of LawThe ILBF’s law undergraduate essay competition 2023-2024 is a fantastic opportunity for students to engage with an important topic with the chance to win a week’s work experience at international law firm McDermott Will & Emery in London in summer 2024!Tue, 16 Jan 2024 09:30:29 Zurn:uuid:19785149-c29b-47cd-87a7-21f6b3331e6b/blog/future-of-law/going-it-alone-the-rise-of-the-solo-practitionerFuture of LawWe examine the rapid growth of legal consultants, explore the pros and cons of consultancy for lawyers and for clients, and judge just how serious this threat might be.Mon, 08 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z<p>Our recent report explores <a href="/ai-insider/sign-up.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">three competitive threats facing City law firms</a>. The steady growth of legal consultants and platform law firms proved a key threat and for good reason. </p><p><a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/will-a-third-of-lawyers-really-be-legal-consultants-by-2026">Research from Arden</a> describes how 3000 of the UK's 10,000 law firms may close or merge in the next five years, and how consultancy may absorb lawyers or entire teams. This shift is solidified by research from our previous report, <a href="/research-and-reports/platform-law-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Rise of the legal consultants</a>, which suggests that as many as one-third of lawyers will become legal consultants by 2026.&nbsp;</p><p>City firms face huge <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-law-firm-recruitment-model">recruitment</a>, retention, and commercial challenges from the consultancy model. The threat looms large, as <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/will-a-third-of-lawyers-really-be-legal-consultants-by-2026">increasing numbers of lawyers</a> make the move to revenue-sharing firms. In this article, we track the growth of legal consultants, explore the extent of the threat they pose, and examine some of the pros and cons of the platform model. </p><p><em>Discover <a href="/ai-insider/sign-up.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI Insiders</a>. AI has arrived and the landscape is changing. Stay ahead of the curve. Become an AI Insider today.&nbsp;</em></p><h4>The looming threat of legal consultants </h4><p>Platform law firms provide <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/the-future-of-law-firm-client-relationships">an alternative operating model</a>. Lawyers work as self-employed consultants, sharing revenue and keeping the bulk of their client fees. All excess funds are spent via a centralised network, which generally provides essential tools that lawyers might need to fulfil and excel in their roles: insurance, branding, <a href="https://www.lexisnexis.com/en-us/accelerator.page" data-sf-ec-immutable="">legal tech</a>, and so on. </p><p>The model has already attracted many lawyers. According to <a href="https://www.legalfutures.co.uk/latest-news/number-of-lawyers-at-fee-share-firms-up-by-45-in-three-years" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Legal Futures</a>, the number of lawyers at fee-sharing firms has increased by 45% in the past three years alone. And the platform law firms themselves are certainly thriving. Consider three major players: <a href="https://www.taylor-rose.co.uk/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Taylor Rose</a>, who currently employ 350 fee earners; <a href="https://www.keystonelaw.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Keystone Law</a>, who employ more than 400 earners and <a href="https://gunnercooke.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">gunnercooke</a>, who employ more than 500. Each of these firms have seen rapid growth of lawyers and expect that to continue.&nbsp;</p><p>So, that begs the question: why are so many lawyers ditching City firms for consultancy? </p><h4>Pros and cons of legal consultancy for lawyers </h4><p><strong>The pros for lawyers</strong> </p><p>Perhaps the most cited advantage of the move to platform law if greater autonomy. The revenue-sharing model allows lawyers to choose clients, set their schedules, work the hours they want, all with no need to request permission from managers. Legal consultants can <a href="/legal/news/remote-working-tips-for-trainees-their-firms" data-sf-ec-immutable="">work remotely</a>, or opt for a <a href="/legal/guidance/hybrid-working" data-sf-ec-immutable href="/legal/guidance/hybrid-working"></a href="/legal/guidance/hybrid-working" data-sf-ec-immutable></p>urn:uuid:92582bb9-761e-4027-80d8-7932bcd4fec9/blog/future-of-law/the-golden-era-for-small-law-firms-using-innovation-to-delight-clientsFuture of LawKush Birdi, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Birdi & Co has some useful tips for other small firms on how to not only meet clients’ demands, but delight them.Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:00:00 Z<p>Running a small law firm is like juggling on a unicycle &ndash; it requires balance, focus, concentration and not being afraid to fall off occasionally. But it&rsquo;s our discipline, commitment to clients and genuine passion and enthusiasm that keeps us steady and growing.</p><h4>A golden opportunity for small law firms</h4><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">I dream of a legal industry where lawyers are renowned for the value they provide and not a source of anxiety or frustration, where flexible legal services are the norm and lawyers are seen as progressive and entrepreneurial (not just legal experts).&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">A surprising number of firms fall into a pattern of complacency by sticking to traditional methods and resisting innovation. This approach neglects the need for continual improvement and adaptation to a changed market.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Clients expect much more nowadays. They want to see personality, humbleness and passion. I am certainly seeing clients that are fed up with the impersonal and frustrating experience they have with large and very reputable firms, and they are clearly craving a deeper connection with their legal team. Firms that fail to meet these evolving expectations will be forgotten.</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">In contrast, firms that actively seek innovation, adaptability and deeper connections with their clients are more likely to thrive.</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Our nimbleness allows us to think ahead, look at the industry and respond quickly to market and client needs. This contrasts with the often-slow moving nature of the medium or larger firms.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">So, what have I learnt that can help small law firms capitalise in such a competitive landscape? Read on&nbsp;</span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;color:inherit;">for my 4 key takeaways.</span></p><h4><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">1. Mastering client relationships: going the extra mile</span></h4><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">High quality work is a given. But it&rsquo;s the attitudes you adopt in work (and life) that matters most. It&rsquo;s what delivers real value and helps to build trust and long-lasting relationships. It&rsquo;s the more &ldquo;human&rdquo; element of the lawyer-client dynamic that too often gets lost but is the thing that leaves </span></p>urn:uuid:c67e8563-2fc8-4227-b8ef-274468c6fd8d/blog/future-of-law/growing-a-small-firm-attracting-new-business-organicallyFuture of LawEmma Egerton-Jones, award-winning solicitor and founder of Egerton-Jones Consulting speaks to us on what to avoid when bringing in new clients with limited resources – and 5 cost-effective ways to supercharge growth.Wed, 03 Jan 2024 10:00:00 Z<p>With pressure on the UK economic climate, recent years have been a rollercoaster for small and solo firms. Despite that, we&rsquo;ve seen a resilience within the sector, with nearly half of all respondents to our Bellwether report expecting their firms to grow over the next 12 months. </p><p>We spoke to Emma-Egerton Jones, award-winning solicitor and founder of Egerton-Jones Consulting, about what to avoid when bringing in new clients with limited resources. </p><h4>How are some of the most successful small firms overcoming the biggest challenges to growth?&nbsp;</h4><p>Managing a small law firm certainly isn&rsquo;t for the faint hearted! Keeping up with the onslaught of regulations, increasing insurance premiums and ever improving software systems often feels like it&rsquo;s down to sheer resilience and determination. But there are some challenges that present a real opportunity for smaller and more agile law firms!&nbsp;</p><p>There&rsquo;s no avoiding the fact that today&rsquo;s clients are simply harder to please and won&rsquo;t hesitate to seek out a new service provider at the first hint of dissatisfaction. They have higher expectations and a greater need to understand the value of the work, the way it&rsquo;s delivered, and the relationship that comes with it.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Smaller firms are <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/unique-tactics-for-small-law-firms-to-win-new-business">uniquely positioned</a> to take advantage of this. They&rsquo;re closer to the clients allowing for a deeper understanding of their wants, needs and expectations. Rapid growth can be seen in the firms who have identified the need for an efficient but &lsquo;people-centric&rsquo; approach to everything they do.&nbsp;</p><h4>What are some of the most effective ways a small firm can attract new business realistically &ndash; whilst keeping the investment to a minimum?</h4><p>This year is all about reducing wasted effort and extracting more value from the activities you&rsquo;re already doing to attract work, ideally on your existing budget. For example, here are five ways firms can supercharge their growth without additional cost:&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p><strong>1. Better understand your most profitable clients' wants and needs&nbsp;</strong><strong></strong></p><p>A client listening exercise is always invaluable. Interview key clients to gain detailed </p>urn:uuid:b1aaa41b-1f28-4158-ad44-34567c2ae2e2/blog/future-of-law/five-legal-trends-for-small-law-firms-in-2024Future of LawWe look at the trends set to define the year ahead for small firms, including alternative fee arrangements, the need to drive growth through new business organically, attracting and retaining talent, and more.Mon, 18 Dec 2023 13:08:55 Z<p>We look at the trends set to define the year ahead for small firms, including alternative fee arrangements, the need to drive growth through new business organically, attracting and retaining talent, and more.</p><p>The legal services sector is both competitive and complex. It's evolving at a rapid pace, with the cost-of-living crisis, increasing demands post Covid-19, and the proliferation of legal tech tools being just a few factors at play.&nbsp;</p><p>But as 2023 draws to a close, small firms have shown themselves to be incredibly robust and ambitious as they look to grow through organic means. And there is a growing awareness of the need to invest in the right working practices and systems to increase internal productivity and deliver more value to clients. </p><p>Here, we explore the five trends that will define the next year, and how small firms will rise to the challenge. </p><h4>Leading the way in alternative fee arrangements&nbsp;</h4><p>With only<a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable=""> 8% of respondents to our Bellwether survey</a> charging exclusively by the hour, small firms are the pioneers of flexible billing. Over the last decade, it's become the norm for smaller firms to serve a mix of fixed, flat and retainer fees alongside hourly billing. </p><p>With the cost-of-living crisis showing no signs of easing, alternative fee arrangements are here to stay. 92% of small firms have already embraced this, and many who haven't will soon be considering this model.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Protect your profit margins: hone your pricing strategy with care</strong></p><p>With funding squeezed for smaller firms over the last decade, it's "no surprise that more creative funding solutions have come to the fore, with 'pay as you go' or 'unbundled' services more commonplace," says Geraldine Morris, who heads up the Family Law news desk at UU����ֱ��. </p><p>But, while pricing has the potential to <a href="/legal/guidance/the-impact-of-pricing-on-profitability" data-sf-ec-immutable="">positively impact profitability</a>, it's important to exercise caution when embracing alternative legal fees. Being too flexible when it comes to billing can be detrimental. Developing a pricing model that doesn't hurt </p>urn:uuid:29d1aade-7a64-4d3e-82f2-5e7ea415e9e2/blog/future-of-law/how-city-firms-can-counter-the-threat-of-the-big-fourFuture of LawWe examine the historical rise of the Big Four, the challenge they currently pose to City firms, and the strategies City firms can implement to maintain their current stronghold.Wed, 13 Dec 2023 15:46:08 Z<div><p>Our recent report explores <a href="/research-and-reports/the-three-competitive-threats-facing-city-law-firms.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">three key competitive threats facing City law firms,</a> one of which is posed by the Big Four: <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/uk/en/explore/home.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Deloitte</a>, <a href="https://www.ey.com/en_gl" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Ernst and Young (EY)</a>, <a href="https://www.pwc.com/gx/en.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)</a>, and <a href="https://kpmg.com/xx/en/home.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG)</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The Big Four are targeting the legal service sector. This isn&rsquo;t a new story, they&rsquo;ve long targeted the sector, never quite achieving the predicted success. But, according to <a href="/research-and-reports/the-three-competitive-threats-facing-city-law-firms.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">our report</a>, this time is different.</span><br></p></div><div><p>In this article, we explore the initial promise of the Big Four, track their early forays in the market and their consequent shortcomings, explore the key difference between the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/global-law-firms-versus-the-big-four">Big Four and other legal service offerings</a>, examine why City firms need to take their new challenge seriously and suggest strategies they can implement to respond.&nbsp;</p><h4>The early promise of the Big Four</h4></div><div><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-impact-of-the-big-four-on-alsps-competition-or-complementary">Big Four entered the legal services market</a> in the late 1990s. It began with optimism and a flurry of hope as they almost immediately gained high-profile clients. The initial success was such that many quickly predicted a huge disruption to the legal market. And this was perhaps no surprise, as their offer seemed persuasive: emphasis on project management, huge brand recognition, economies of scale and competitive advantage, and a global reach.&nbsp;</span><br></p></div><div><p>Their offering differed from the standard law firm. Law firms stuck strictly to legal matters, but the Big Four promised professional services such as auditing and assurance, tax compliance and reporting. Law firms focussed on purely legal solutions, but the Big Four looked to integrated solutions. Law firms seemed localised, at best national, usually operating in a single jurisdiction, but the Big Four traversed geography and <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/does-a-global-firm-really-offer-anything-you-wouldn-t-get-from-a-local-outfit">outlined global solutions</a>.&nbsp;<span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">But, despite so much promise and the apparent benefits they could pass on to clients, the Big Four never made the impact predicted. City law firms continued to dominate. The Big Four&rsquo;s failure to seriously penetrate the market stemmed from high-profile accounting scandals, <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/arthur-andersens-legacy-20-years-after-its-demise-is-complicated-11661938200" data-sf-ec-immutable="">the collapse of Arthur Andersen</a>, myriad regulatory challenges, reputational damage and ensuing client scepticism, and litigation risks.&nbsp;</span></p><h4><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The realisation of their early promise</span></h4></div><div><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">&ldquo;The last time they tried to enter the legal profession in the 1990s, their strategy was we&rsquo;re just like law firms only bigger. But that&rsq</span></p></div>urn:uuid:c69a7e65-f86a-422d-85fe-216f03ced33e/blog/future-of-law/real-models-simone-davidsonFuture of LawOur REAL Models series showcases the diverse range of roles we have across our business and we hope to improve knowledge around what it means to be part of something bigger. We believe being part of UU����ֱ�� means being part of the change you want to see in the world.Mon, 11 Dec 2023 17:24:50 Z<p>Our <strong>REAL Models</strong> series showcases the diverse range of roles we have across our business and we hope to improve knowledge around what it means to be part of something bigger.&nbsp;We believe being part of UU����ֱ�� means being part of the change you want to see in the world. </p><p>In this month's edition, we meet:</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Simone Davidson</strong><strong>, Head of Lexis+ UK Built Environment Group and Lexis+ UK Environment.</strong></p><p>Simone joined the company in 2013 as an external contributor producing content for the Environment module and within a few months became a permanent part of the Professional Support Lawyer (PSL) team. </p><p>Simone said, "Before being tempted by the flexibility of working from home offered by UU����ֱ��, I'd been working in the City as an environmental lawyer, which included an interesting mix of contentious, non-contentious and regulatory matters. It's hard to imagine now, but 10 years ago working from home wasn't a concept embraced by private practice law firms. Wanting to work and also be around for my family, meant this type of working environment wasn't sustainable for me."&nbsp;</p><p>Now, Simone is responsible for the Built Environment Cluster in <a href="/products/lexis-plus-practical-guidance.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Practical Guidance</a> which consists of managing almost 20 lawyers across six modules:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Property </li><li>Property disputes </li><li>Construction </li><li>Planning </li><li>Energy </li><li>Environment </li></ul><p>As an expert environmental lawyer, Simone is also the lead for the Environment module, an area which has seen incredible growth over the past few years as environmental issues move from the sideline to become a key area of business' strategies. This involves ensuring the module remains current, covering relevant news, laws and policy.&nbsp;</p><h4>A typical day</h4><p>"My alarm goes off at 7.15 am and I try to get to my desk as soon as possible with a massive cup of tea. My husband takes t</p>urn:uuid:01245173-83b0-4716-a786-d33355fc6397/blog/future-of-law/how-private-practice-lawyers-can-keep-up-with-the-latest-legal-newsFuture of LawWe explore how lawyers at law firms can stay updated with legal news, looking at blogs and websites, newsletters and RSS feeds, social media and artificial intelligence, and more.Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:26:07 Z<p>We live in an <a href="https://www.thedrum.com/opinion/2022/10/28/content-the-age-saturation-brand-identity-first-strategy-second" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">age of saturation</a>. There are so many legal publications, so many legal outlets, so many self-declared experts, and all of them claim monopoly on accuracy. The job of the law firm lawyer once lay in simply finding information. But now the information is all-too-easily accessible. So the contemporary lawyer, in an age of saturation, is tasked with sifting through the noise, filtering fodder, and trying to find relevant, accurate, and up-to-date legal news.</p><p>Trustworthiness of sources has become essential. Due diligence is ever-important. And, with the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-will-generative-ai-shift-the-future-of-law">increase of generative artificial intelligence (AI)</a>, human oversight is paramount. So how can lawyers sift through the noise? How can they decipher between the accurate and the misleading legal news, the up-to-date and the outdated? In this article, we look at the various sources of legal news and show how private practice lawyers can <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/top-tips-to-keep-lawyers-up-to-date-with-legal-news">find the best information</a>.&nbsp;</p><h4><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Blogs for research and analysis</span></h4><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">As mentioned above, finding legal news is not in itself a difficult task. Finding the right legal news, however, is arguably more challenging than ever. Perhaps the most straightforward and efficient way to find news and analysis is by visiting reputable blogs, blogs that you trust.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">UU����ֱ�� has blogs dedicated to the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E">Future of Law</a>, which explores the latest industry developments, key market trends, technological advancements, and so much more. The <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]DAB99E6B-08FF-4788-AE71-6B01D9199FDD">Research and Legal Analysis</a> blog specialises in bringing cutting-edge, data-led, legal intelligence to legal professionals, unpacking the latest challenges and exploring trends.</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Both blogs have plenty of articles specifically aimed at private practice lawyers. Here are some recent blogs published by experts that delve into the latest trends in the legal sector:</span></p><ul><li><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/ai-in-the-legal-profession-the-impact-on-small-law-firms">AI in the legal profession</a> provides insight into how lawyers can interact with AI, how AI will change the legal profession, the general opportunities provided by AI, and so much more</span></li><li><a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-top-five-challenges-facing-law-firms-in-2023">The top five challenges for law firms</a> </li></ul>urn:uuid:991c61ee-d4de-4d00-b95e-6836a2e14fc3/blog/future-of-law/50-must-know-legal-tech-stats-for-2024Future of Law50 top legal tech stats all lawyers and legal professionals will need to be aware of in 2024.Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:37:57 Z<p><strong>We explore 50 of the most mind-blowing and important legal tech stats for 2024, helping you to stay firmly ahead of the curve in the coming year.</strong></p><p>The past few years have felt like <a href="https://theconversation.com/permacrisis-what-it-means-and-why-its-word-of-the-year-for-2022-194306" data-sf-ec-immutable="">perma-crisis</a>, with a health crisis followed by geo-political and economic crises, all in the midst of an environmental crisis. The legal sector has been hit by each crisis and remains in a state of constant flux. But the sector has shown its resilience, its capacity for effective adaptation, and its willingness to innovate and evolve.</p><p>Perhaps the greatest form of evolution has been around legal tech. Legal tech has helped lawyers and firms meet the myriad challenges, such as embracing videoconferencing during several lockdowns, onboarding <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/is-legal-tech-the-key-to-boosting-in-house-productivity">cost-reducing automations</a> during the cost-of-living crisis, and streamlining <a href="/insights/generative-ai-and-the-future-of-the-legal-profession/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">generative artificial intelligence</a> (AI) in the present moment.</p><p>And legal tech will play a larger role in the future. So, with that in mind, we present 50 stats about <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/how-in-house-legal-teams-can-find-the-best-legal-tech">legal tech</a> to help with your preparation, inform your decision-making process, and hopefully steer you towards the right tech to meet your needs. <br></p><h4><strong>General legal tech stats</strong></h4><p>1. Four-fifths (81%) of small firm lawyers said that keeping working practices and systems up to date will be a significant challenge in the next 12 months &ndash; <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Bellwether Report 2023</a></p><p>2. Despite strong awareness of the need to invest, only 24% of small firm lawyers have any actual plans to implement new technology in the next 12 months &ndash; <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Bellwether Report 2023</a></p><p>3. A survey of 900 law firms in the UK found that only 37% are currently using legal technology &ndash; <a href="https://www.sra.org.uk/sra/research-publications/technology-innovation-in-legal-services/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Solicitor&rsquo;s Regulation Authority Legal Tech Survey</a> </p><p>4. Over four-fifths (82%) of in-house lawyers agree that the demand for legal technology skills will increase in their legal teams &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="/research-and-reports/escaping-the-legal-labyrinth.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="">UU����ֱ�� Escaping the in-house legal labyrinth report</a></p><p>5. The biggest benefits of legal tech are &lsquo;makes the team more productive&rsquo; (74%), </p>urn:uuid:4234f989-32f8-4bfa-a4b2-c08ed1c294c2/blog/future-of-law/how-to-branch-into-a-new-practice-area-of-the-lawFuture of LawFind out how to branch into a new practice area of the law with this guide on general upskilling, lateral hiring, mergers and acquisitions, and more.Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:18:24 Z<p><strong></strong><strong>We explore how lawyers can switch their practice areas, with reference to general upskilling, the possibilities of lateral hiring, opportunities with mergers and acquisitions, and much more.</strong></p><p>There are plenty of reasons to branch into a new practice area. Some lawyers follow market demand, or market trends, perhaps witnessing the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/declining-areas-of-the-law-2024">decline of particular practice areas</a>, or even the over-saturation of lucrative or <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/growing-areas-of-the-law-2024">growing practice areas</a>. Other lawyers simply move due to personal interest, perhaps one that has evolved in their initial practice area. Others do so for career growth, perhaps feeling constrained in their previous practice area or hoping for greater upward mobility. And some, of course, switch in the pursuit of more money. </p><p>But branching into a new practice area can be quite difficult. Lawyers need to ensure they are fully informed about the decision and take the right steps to make it happen. In this article, we explore the various routes available for lawyers to branch into a new practice area, looking at upskilling, lateral hiring, <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/organic-growth-mergers-acquisitions">opportunities presented by mergers and acquisitions</a>, and so on.</p><h4><strong>Ensure you&rsquo;re making the right decision </strong><strong></strong></h4><p>Switching practice area is a huge commitment. It will require a lot of work and a lot of patience. The first step for lawyers is to consider the decision. Start by assessing your strengths and weaknesses. You might, for example, dislike confrontation and actively avoid public speaking, in which case switching to <a href="/legal/dispute-resolution" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">Dispute Resolution</a> is likely a bad idea. You might enjoy numbers and working with clients, in which case <a href="/legal/corporate-law" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">Corporate Law</a> might seem attractive.</p><p>Try to understand the various requirements of the new practice area. Look at emerging trends, revenue growth, and aim to talk to someone who works in that area. </p><p>And then perform some last elements of self-critical analysis. Ask yourself whether you&rsquo;re prepared to feel like a novice again, whether you&rsquo;re willing to invest time into learning a new skill, whether your reason for switching justifies the effort, whether ends justify the means. <br></p><h4><strong>Upskill to switch practice areas</strong></h4><p>Once you&rsquo;ve decided to switch practice areas, the first step is to study. It&rsquo;s best practice to form a habit, spending a minimum amount of time each day studying caselaw, regulations, practical guidance, precedents, and any other relevant information. It might be helpful to use a practical guidance tool, <a href="/products/lexis-plus-trial.html" targe href="/products/lexis-plus-trial.html"></a href="/products/lexis-plus-trial.html" targe></p>urn:uuid:c44aac23-c66c-44d6-b652-5dc859cc6eea/blog/future-of-law/courts-have-the-power-to-order-compulsory-adr-churchill-v-merthyr-tydfil-cbc-2023Future of LawChurchill v Merthyr Tydfil CBC [2023] EWCA Civ 1416In a judgment handed down on 29 November 2023 the Court of Appeal, emphasising the courts’ power to govern its own procedure under the Civil Procedure Rules, held that they have the power to stay proceedings for or order that parties engage in alternative dispute resolution.In delivering the leading judgment, with which the Lady Chief Justice and Birss LJ, the Deputy Head of Civil Justice, agreed, the Master of the Rolls held:It was not a necessary part of the reasoning that led to the decision in Halsey that a court did not have the power to stay proceedings for, or order, the parties to engage in an alternative dispute resolution process.  Any comments that suggested otherwise were obiter rather than part of the ratio.  The issue had not been directly before the court in Halsey.  The Court of Appeal, considering the issue in this case where it did arise directly further held:A court did have the power to stay proceedings for, or order, the parties to engage in an alternative dispute resolution process.  The Master of the Rolls analysed domestic case law, cases from the European Court of Human Rights and pre-Brexit cases from the Court of Justice of the European UnionWed, 29 Nov 2023 21:33:43 Z<p><strong><em>Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil CBC </em>[2023] EWCA Civ 1416</strong></p><p>In a judgment handed down on 29 November 2023 the Court of Appeal, emphasising the courts&rsquo; power to govern its own procedure under the Civil Procedure Rules, held that they have the power to stay proceedings for or order that parties engage in alternative dispute resolution.<br></p><p>In delivering the leading judgment, with which the Lady Chief Justice and Birss LJ, the Deputy Head of Civil Justice, agreed, the Master of the Rolls held:</p><ol><li>It was not a necessary part of the reasoning that led to the decision<em> </em>in <em>Halsey </em>that a court did not have the power to stay proceedings for, or order, the parties to engage in an alternative dispute resolution process.&nbsp; Any comments that suggested otherwise were <em>obiter </em>rather than part of the <em>ratio</em>.&nbsp; The issue had not been directly before the court in <em>Halsey</em>.&nbsp; <br><br><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The Court of Appeal, considering the issue in this case where it did arise directly further held:</span></p></li><li>A court did have the power to stay proceedings for, or order, the parties to engage in an alternative dispute resolution process.&nbsp; The Master of the Rolls analysed domestic case law, cases from the European Court of Human Rights and pre-Brexit cases from the Court of Justice of the European Union</li></ol>urn:uuid:c4f61142-9167-45ca-a798-db93f8a40964/blog/future-of-law/global-firms-vs-uk-firms-the-battle-for-the-cityFuture of LawWe explore the history of US firms entering the UK legal market, examine their current threat to the long-standing London legal market, and explore the core differences between global firms and UK law firms.Fri, 24 Nov 2023 00:00:00 Z<p>The City's legal legacy is one of the oldest in the world, with origins tracing back to the Elizabethan era. This notoriously cut-throat and hyper-competitive market has been difficult to crack. Over the years, we've seen predictions of many new players poised to take over the market, but despite small shifts, City firms have still dominated.&nbsp;</p><p>However, this time seems different and these new predictions seem credible. Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/the-three-competitive-threats-facing-city-law-firms.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">The three key competitive threats facing City law firms</a>, showed how one core threat stems from the growing presence of US law firms. Market penetration, in the last few years, has reached surprising new heights. <a href="https://www.thelawyer.com/top-us-law-firms-in-london/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">The Lawyer's latest US 50 report</a> found huge growth figures for US firms in the UK, with 23 experiencing double-digit revenue growth, and seven experiencing a 20%+ turnover.&nbsp;</p><p>In this article, we examine the long-term potential of US firms in terms of market growth and show how they might pose a threat. We also explore the key differences between UK and global firms identified in our report, <a href="/research-and-reports/global-law-firms.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">The pros and cons of the global law firm</a>. </p><h4>Tracking the growth of US firms&nbsp;</h4><p>The UK's top law firms, including those comprising the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-innovative-law-firm-operating-models">Magic Circle</a>, have long faced competition from the US. We've seen a presence of ambitious firms from as early as the 1970s, with the primary aim of serving US banks and multinationals doing business in Europe. Initially, they faced stringent legal restrictions and acted solely as consultants due to their inability to practice English law. </p><p>Liberalisation of regulation allowed for more concrete market penetration through the 1980s and 90s. US firms could now employ people from the UK, allowing them to directly compete. A boom in mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;As) saw further expansion of US firms, with increased competition. </p><p>More M&amp;As followed in the next two decades, along with US firms seeking to <a href="https://www.chambersstudent.co.uk/law-firms/types-of-law-firm/us-firms-in-the-uk" data-sf-ec-immutable="">strengthen their London position through organic growth</a>. They diversified their offering to meet the increasing complexities of global business, venturing into new areas and started to entice top talent from UK firms using <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/what-is-the-average-lawyer-salary-in-the-uk">exceptionally high remuneration packages</a>. </p><p>But US entrants were matched with dissolutions. Since 2000, several US firms dissolved or retreated, including Howrey Simon, Troutman San</p>urn:uuid:5a199d0e-8256-4b28-91d8-ef8fa13f093c/blog/future-of-law/merger-remedies-in-a-post-brexit-world-divergence-or-harmonyFuture of LawThe 31st of December 2020 saw the beginning of an important shift in the way merger transactions are carried out in the UK. Since the end of the EU's one-stop shop principle, merger transactions can now be subject to review by both the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and the European Commission.Fri, 17 Nov 2023 12:51:50 Z<p>The 31st of December 2020 saw the beginning of an important shift in the way merger transactions are carried out in the UK. Since the end of the EU's one-stop-shop principle, merger transactions can now be subject to review by both the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and the European Commission.&nbsp;</p><p>So, has this caused a conflict or harmonious approach between the two regulators? The teams at UU����ֱ�� and <a href="/products/caselex.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Caselex</a> have examined Caselex's database of over 20,000 merger control decisions to understand the impact on the UK merger control landscape over the last two years.&nbsp;</p><p>You can read the <a href="/research-and-reports/caselex-merger-remedies-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">in-depth report here</a>, or continue below for our key takeaways.</p><h4>Behavioural vs structural remedies: reinforcing an old divide? </h4><p>Of course, CMA scepticism around behavioural remedies is nothing new. According to CMA CEO, Sarah Cardell, there is an inherent feeling that they're inadequate and "unlikely to create the same level of pre-merger competitive intensity between the merging firms".</p><p>And, since the reforms have set in, Nicole Kar, Global Head of Antitrust at Linklaters LLP has noted in our&nbsp;<a href="/research-and-reports/glp-index-2022-overview.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">GLP Index tracker</a>&nbsp;that the CMA has been super-charged by these reforms, following a trajectory of increasing interventionism, leading her to be concerned these reforms may make the regime "too hot to handle".</p><p>The Commission's stance is notably different, in some cases considering itself almost legally obliged to accept behavioural remedies, even if they fall short of perfection. </p><p>Even when the two regulators consider like-for-like geographies, opposing attitudes to the remedial process can still mean that outcomes aren't necessarily the same. Five out of the seven divergent cases took place within the same markets. </p><h4>Moral consensus doesn't always mean convergence</h4><p>It's clear that the UK and EU regulators have a tendency to agree, but disagree. In the case of Microsoft/Activision Blizzard, both regulators vocalised concerns over the negative impact of Microsoft gaining exclusivity over Activision's games for its cloud gaming streaming service.&nbsp; </p><p>When it came to behavioural remedies, the Commission went as far as accepting 10-year licensing commitments in order to address its competition concerns, praising the pro-competitive result. </p><p>In April 2023, the CMA prohibited the transaction, stating what was offered showed "a number of significant shortcomings connected with the growing and fast-moving nature of cloud gaming services". </p><p>It was fundamentally opposed to "behavioural commitments" replacing a "free, open and competitive market with one subject to ongoing regulation".</p><p>For a deep dive into this particular case, read MLex's real-time insights on both Microsoft's recasting and revamping of the Activision deal for the <a href="https://mlexmarketinsight.com/news/comment/comment-microsoft-s-recasting-of-activision-deal-for-uk-ticks-the-right-boxes" data-sf-ec-immutable="">UK</a> and the <a href="https://mlexmarketinsight.com/news/insight/microsoft-s-revamped-activision-deal-prompts-questions-from-eu" data-sf-ec-immutable="">EU</a></p>urn:uuid:b4644050-1658-4f06-8951-5593dcbe4a3f/blog/future-of-law/are-city-law-firms-ready-to-tackle-a-triad-of-threatsFuture of LawWe explore how new and innovative competition, dynamic and novel business models, and pioneering ways of working pose a threat to the long-standing success of City law firms.Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:00:00 Z<p>Our recent report, <a href="/research-and-reports/the-three-competitive-threats-facing-city-law-firms.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">The three key competitive threats facing City law firms</a>, starts with a familiar story, explaining that City firms have long enjoyed dominance in the UK legal market. But, recently we've seen a plot twist, with disruption from a host of new competition, from the rising presence of US firms, to the <a href="/research-and-reports/big-4-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Big Four</a>, alternative legal service providers (<a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/what-are-alsps-how-do-in-house-teams-use-them-why">ALSPs</a>), and so on. These new business models, such as the <a href="/research-and-reports/trex-platform-law-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">rise of platform law firms</a> and <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/will-law-firms-of-the-future-adopt-flat-structures">alternative business structures</a> (ABS) have been transformational, through methods like hybrid working, flexible hours, and <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/will-a-third-of-lawyers-really-be-legal-consultants-by-2026">consultancy</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>London's legal market has always been fast-paced, cut-throat, and competitive, continuously rising to challenges. But, City firms are now under increasing pressure and so far, they're proving resilient. Consider, for example, that <a href="https://www.pwc.co.uk/industries/legal-professional-business-support-services/law-firms-survey.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">90% of the top 100 law firms</a> increased fee income in 2022 and 65% saw a rise in profits. </p><p>To ensure future success, City firms will need to keep ahead of the curve, stay up to date with the latest trends, and mitigate potential risks. In this article, we explore three key competitive threats in detail, provide some necessary historical context, and offer potential solutions to help City firms overcome.</p><h4><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Threat one: US law firms continue to muscle their way in</span><br></h4><p>Our report, <a href="/insights/the-pros-and-cons-of-the-global-law-firm/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">The pros and cons of the global law firm</a>, covered the increasing threat from US law firms in the UK legal market. Although this threat is now rapidly advancing, it's a threat that dates back at least forty years. </p><p>The loosening of regulations in the 1980s meant that US firms were allowed to practice UK law, providing a huge commercial opportunity. There were two core routes into the market: mergers and acquisitions (M&amp;As) and <a href="https://www.chambersstudent.co.uk/law-firms/types-of-law-firm/us-firms-in-the-uk" data-sf-ec-immutable="">organic growth</a>. Both routes were vigorously explored over the following decades. </p><p>Many US firms aimed to solidify and advance in the market. They diversified their overall offering to meet </p>urn:uuid:8092a518-ca93-448f-a30f-39b946727d02/blog/future-of-law/how-generative-ai-helps-law-firms-to-competeFuture of LawWIth generative AI, the competition has become fiercer. Law firms need to be quick to embrace this new technology and adapt their offerings.Sun, 15 Oct 2023 23:00:00 Z<p><strong>We explore the conclusions from a recent UU����ֱ�� report and show how embracing AI will help law firms stay competitive and meet ever-evolving client expectations.</strong><strong></strong><strong></strong></p><p>The recent UU����ֱ�� report, <a href="/research-and-reports/generative-ai-and-the-legal-profession-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">Generative AI and the future of the legal profession</a>, shows that more than half of lawyers expect firms to work with generative AI in the next year, a number that rose to 73% when accounting for large firms. Two reasons clearly explain the increasing embrace of AI: law firms need AI to remain competitive and clients will increasingly expect firms to use AI. </p><p>In this article, we are going to explore why firms cannot afford to ignore generative AI. We will show how the tech can revolutionise work in law firms, how it will meet evolving client demands, and how those two factors will allow firms to stay ahead of (or not fall behind) the competition.</p><h4><strong>Generative AI will help firms stay competitive</strong></h4><p>The applications of generative AI are endless. An AI aggregator, <a href="https://theresanaiforthat.com/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">There&rsquo;s an AI for that</a>, shows the dizzying range of possible applications. The aggregator shows nearly 6000 AIs covering everything from the expected &ndash; writing code, writing content, writing contracts &ndash; to the absurd &ndash; perfecting small talk, suggested travel itineraries, crafting beer, and so on. </p><p>But the most popular generative AI platforms seem to be simple, performing the everyday tasks that define our workdays. Most produce information &ndash; written, video, audio, images, and so on &ndash; based on prompts that we feed into them. The most popular of these platforms include, among others, ChatGPT, Jasper, DeepAI, DALL&middot;E 2, Soundraw, Jukebox, Synthesia, and Pictory.</p><p>These AI platforms are revolutionising everyday work, changing the world one memo, one document, one contract at a time. The legal sector has lagged behind other sectors in terms of general uptake, but more than a third (36%) of lawyers claim to have used generative AI, <a href="https://www. href="/"></a href="https://www.></p>urn:uuid:3d21f04f-732b-42f4-9872-0c68820b4218/blog/future-of-law/should-law-firms-disclose-the-use-of-generative-aiFuture of LawHow much information should law firms give about their use of AI? And what’s the best way to give that information? We investigate.Wed, 11 Oct 2023 23:00:00 Z<p><strong></strong><strong>A recent UU����ֱ�� report demonstrated that firms need to tell clients they are using AI. But how much do information should they give? And what&rsquo;s the best way to give that information?</strong><strong></strong><strong></strong></p><p>Lawyers and law firms will use artificial intelligence (AI) in the future. The inevitability is pushed by two needs: the need to remain competitive and the need to meet client expectations. And, as shown in the recent UU����ֱ�� report, <a href="/research-and-reports/generative-ai-and-the-legal-profession-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">Generative AI and the future of the legal profession</a>, that feeling of inevitability is echoed across the sector. Nearly three quarters (70%) of respondents, for example, agreed or strongly agreed that firms should embrace cutting-edge tech, including generative AI, and just under half (49%) expect their <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]DAB99E6B-08FF-4788-AE71-6B01D9199FDD/ai-use-risks-ethics-in-annual-reporting">firms to use generative AI</a> in the next 12 months.</p><p>The debate, then, is not around <em>if</em> firms will use AI, not even <em>when</em>, but <em>how</em> firms will use AI. And that invites various questions around client interaction. Should firms tell clients if they use AI? Do they need to inform clients <em>every time</em> they use AI? Do clients have a right to opt-out? And so on. In this article, we explain the need for transparency, how much transparency might be needed, and express how law firms can divulge generative AI usage in a sensible and responsible way. </p><h4><strong>The need for transparency </strong></h4><p>Generative AI tools will increasingly form part of both the in-house and private practice toolkit, says Ben Allgrove, partner and chief innovation officer at Baker McKenzie. &lsquo;Clients do not want &ldquo;AI powered solution; they want the right legal services to meet their needs.&rsquo; It is not that clients will expect AI. Clients will expect the best and quickest solutions &ndash; and those will invariably rely on the use of AI.</p><p>But clients will generally expect transparency around the use of AI. In <a href="/research-and-reports/generative-ai-and-the-legal-profession-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">the UU����ֱ�� report</a>, for example, more than four in five (82%) in-house counsel said they would expect firms to tell them when they have been using generative AI. General respondents broadly echoed that sentiment, with 75% saying that they believe their clients </p>urn:uuid:1a2422ec-db7f-4877-baeb-464eedc803fc/blog/future-of-law/why-using-ai-should-be-the-expectation-for-legal-counselFuture of LawGenerative AI has the potential to benefit in-house legal teams and external counsel alike. But it's up to General Counsel to drive demand!Mon, 09 Oct 2023 09:53:47 Z<p><strong></strong><strong>We explore why in-house teams are increasingly expecting external counsel to take advantage of AI</strong><strong></strong></p><p>According to the recent UU����ֱ�� report, <a href="/research-and-reports/generative-ai-and-the-legal-profession-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" target="_blank">Generative AI and the future of the legal profession</a>, nearly half (49%) of in-house counsel will expect their law firms to use generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the next 12 months. External counsel of the future will need to employ generative AI, or they risk falling behind competition or failing to meet the expectations of in-house teams.</p><p>Expecting other organisations to use AI &ndash; an expectation that has spread to every sector of the economy &ndash; will <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/lessons-from-legaledcon-2023-the-impact-of-technology-ai-on-the-future-of-the-legal-profession">play a significant role</a> in the future relationship of in-house teams and external counsel. With that in mind, we discuss why in-house teams are increasingly expecting external counsel and third parties to use AI. We also explore how in-house teams can take advantage of the tech internally. </p><h4><strong>How AI has become a necessity </strong></h4><p><a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]DAB99E6B-08FF-4788-AE71-6B01D9199FDD/ai-use-risks-ethics-in-annual-reporting">Generative AI</a> was once a luxury, a novel form of tech that law firms desired. But, as its use grows in every sector of the economy, AI has become a necessity. The benefits are substantial, which means any team, any department, any organisation that fails to take advantage of the tech may fall behind.</p><p>Generative AI platforms have quickly become household names. They serve myriad purposes, such as generating text (ChatGPT, Jasper, etc), images (DeepAI, DALL&middot;E 2, etc), audio (Soundraw, Jukebox, etc), video (Synthesia, Pictory, etc), and so much more. And generative AI tools, <a href="https://www.lexisnexis.com/en-us/products/lexis-plus.page" data-sf-ec-immutable="">such as the Lexis+ AI tool</a>, have been specifically created to improve elements of legal work and work vital to in-house teams. </p><p>The application of generative AI in the legal sector takes various forms. Generative AI helps lawyers to draft and monitor contracts, support research, summarise complex information, draft memos and briefs, perform due diligence, analyse data, ideate and brainstorm, and so much more. The overall <a href="https://www.simplilearn.com/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-artificial-intelligence-article" data-sf-ec-immutable="">benefits</a> include massive cost and time reductions, <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7b41954 href="/"></a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7b41954></p>urn:uuid:5e3e0f43-d3ee-40ce-b5c3-6a65c5b00fd2/blog/future-of-law/five-legal-trends-that-will-dominate-2024Future of LawThe legal trends that will define 2024, including generative AI, alternative legal fees, exploration of new markets, and much more.Mon, 09 Oct 2023 08:21:39 Z<p>We look at the legal trends set to define the year ahead, including the rise of generative AI, the acceptance of alternative legal fees, exploration of new markets, and so much more.</p><p>The legal sector is evolving at breakneck speed. It is a highly competitive, complex sector, facing myriad challenges, such as the cost-of-living crisis, the increasing demand for specialist knowledge, the proliferation and disruption of <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/should-in-house-legal-teams-include-alternative-providers-or-alsps-on-their-panels">alternative legal service providers</a> (ALSPs), shifting client expectations, the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/growing-areas-of-the-law-2024">growth and decline of practice areas</a>, and so much more. <br></p><p>But the sector will adapt, evolve, and ultimately meet those challenges. Law firms and lawyers have shown, in the last few years, a surprising versatility, <a href="https://www.natwest.com/business/insights/sector-trends/professional-services-and-business-services/legal-report-2023-sector-shows-resilience-amid-challenges.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">an earnest resilience</a>, and a general desire to adapt. In 2024, we expect the sector go even further, embracing the latest tech, accepting innovative payment structures, pushing into new markets, and so much more.<br></p><p>Law firms of the future will not simply accept, but embrace change. And, to that end, they should try to stay ahead. Here we explore five core legal trends set to define 2024. <br></p><h4><strong>1) The rise of generative artificial intelligence</strong><br></h4><p><a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-case-for-generative-ai-for-private-practice-lawyers">Generative artificial intelligence (AI)</a> platforms &ndash; ChatGPT, DALL&middot;E, Jasper, Soundraw, and so on &ndash; proved to be <em>the</em> talking point of 2023. Not just in the legal sector, but across the entire economy, across the entire world. A recent UU����ֱ�� report, <a href="/research-and-reports/generative-ai-and-the-legal-profession-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" target="_blank">Generative AI and the future of the legal profession</a>, aimed to understand the current awareness and application of AI in the sector. And, while the present use seemed minimal, with just over a third (36%) of respondents suggesting that they use the tech, the projected use seemed astronomical.<br></p><p>Lawyers are increasingly turning to <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-case-for-generative-ai-for-private-practice-lawyers">generative AI to find solutions</a>. They are using the tech to produce briefs, documents, and content. They are <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/generative-ai-opportunity-threat-or-both">ideating with AI</a>, improving processes, streamlining operations. They are drafting, negotiating, and analysing contracts. Lawyers are <a ></a ></p>urn:uuid:7ef6a6b9-a18f-47d4-bfd8-ec2ee6de966d/blog/future-of-law/subdued-growth-expected-for-the-uk-legal-sector-in-2024Future of LawThe latest GLP Index shows demand for legal services will grow by +2% in 2024. Find out which areas of the law will increase or decrease in demand.Sun, 08 Oct 2023 23:00:00 Z<p><strong></strong>After a sharp +22% increase in demand for legal services in 2021 (when the Covid lockdown was lifted), the demand has climbed steadily ever since, with a +3% increase in 2022, and a +6% increase in 2023.</p><p>Looking ahead, the recent&nbsp;<a href="/research-and-reports/glp-index-2024.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="">UU����ֱ�� Gross Legal Product (GLP) Index 2024</a>&nbsp;predicts a +2% growth in the demand for legal services for 2024 compared to 2023.</p><h4><strong>What does this mean? Is the sector burning out or bouncing back?&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Given the geopolitical and macroeconomic headwinds the legal profession faced in the last 18 months, even a subdued growth of +2% is overwhelmingly positive. It shows the legal profession's resilience, ability to innovate, and drive to power forward.&nbsp;</p><p>However, we live in unpredictable times&nbsp;&ndash; growth could well accelerate beyond +2%.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/glp-index-2024.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable=""><em>Download the UU����ֱ�� GLP Index 2024</em></a></p><h4><strong>Overall business confidence at an 18-month high</strong></h4><p>According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lloydsbank.com/assets/assets-business-banking/pdfs/business-barometer.pdf" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lloyds Bank's Business Barometer's&nbsp;</a>latest report, business confidence increased to 41% in August 2023, reaching its highest level since February 2022 (when Russia invaded Ukraine).&nbsp;<em></em></p><p>"We've seen a strong rebound in confidence, now higher than at any time since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and well above the long-run average. Business optimism is helped by the outlook on peak interest rates and the direction of travel on inflation,<em>"</em> says Paul Gordon, MD for Relationship Management, Lloyds Bank Business &amp; Commercial Banking.</p><p>According to the Lloyds report, the rise in business confidence was mainly driven by a marked rebound in economic optimism. Although the manufacturing sector does not share the overall confidence, there was increased confidence in retail, construction, and services.</p><p>Hiring intentions rose to a 15-month high, and the share of companies expecting a pay increase for their workforce also rose to a new high. Confidence increased in ten out of the UK's twelve regions and nations, with sentiment the most upbeat in London and the southeast.<em></em></p><p>According to Hann-Ju Ho of Lloyds,<em> </em>&ldquo;Our analysis shows that businesses felt relief that interest rates may be reaching their peak, alongside hopes that measures to tackle inflation are having an impact. With trading prospects remaining stable, and hiring and wage intentions also rising, the macro environment for</p>urn:uuid:31f93a5f-8d70-4feb-a444-4ce976e0e5f7/blog/future-of-law/smaller-law-firms-are-leading-the-way-in-meeting-clients-needsFuture of LawFee arrangements are one area where we can judge which law firms are leading the way in putting clients' needs first. For decades, law firms have used the billable hour model. These days, clients demand greater cost certainty and transparency, all of which can be achieved through alternative pricing structures. Ultimately, clients want efficiency and value for money. The number of law firms offering alternative fee arrangements has risen drastically since the pandemic. The Bellwether 2023 report has revealed how smaller law firms are taking charge of this, as the billable hour is still dominant amongst the community of larger firms. The current payment landscape According to a 2021 survey of law firms with 100 or more fee-earners by BigHand, only 43% of UK law firms with more than 100 lawyers offered alternative fees like fixed or capped fees. When asked why they use alternative billing methods, in our report ‘Calling time on the billable hour’ 85% of law firms said their use is driven by client demand. Yet, 98% of respondents in the BigHand 2022 survey said they had increased target hours for lawyers, with nearly half doing so by over 10%.In the meantime, clients are pushing for value-based billing. Cost savings, certainty and general efficiency are the top reasons why they want alternative billing structures, at 81%, 65% and 49% respectively. While many larger firms are only now switching to more flexible billing models, small firms have embraced this model for a while, so can it be argued that the smaller law firms and solo practitioner communities are more flexible? Is this why they can apply multiple types of fee arrangements, according to the client's wants, compared to their bigger counterparts? Discover how Lexis+ can increase your productivity, saving you time to work on high-value tasks that matter most to your clients.How are smaller firms leading the way? TheFri, 06 Oct 2023 08:00:00 Z<p>Fee arrangements are one area where we can judge which law firms are leading the way in putting clients' needs first.&nbsp;</p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">For decades, law firms have used the billable hour model. These days, clients demand greater cost certainty and transparency, all of which can be achieved through alternative pricing structures. Ultimately, clients want efficiency and value for money.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The number of law firms offering alternative fee arrangements has risen drastically since the pandemic. The <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Bellwether 2023 report</a> has revealed how smaller law firms are taking charge of this, as the billable hour is still dominant amongst the community of larger firms.&nbsp;</span></p><h4><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The current payment landscape&nbsp;</span></h4><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">According to a 2021 survey of law firms with 100 or more fee-earners by <a href="https://www.bighand.com/en-gb/resources/whitepapers/the-legal-pricing-and-budgeting-report/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">BigHand</a>, only 43% of UK law firms with more than 100 lawyers offered alternative fees like fixed or capped fees.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">When asked why they use alternative billing methods, in our report &lsquo;<a href="/research-and-reports/billable-hour.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Calling time on the billable hour</a>&rsquo; 85% of law firms said their use is driven by client demand. Yet, 98% of respondents in the <a href="https://www.bighand.com/en-gb/resources/news/economic-uncertainty-puts-pressure-on-law-firms-to-increase-lawyers-billable-hours-confirms-latest-market-research/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">BigHand 2022</a> survey said they had increased target hours for lawyers, with nearly half doing so by over 10%.</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">In the meantime, <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-law-firms-can-maximise-billings-from-their-lawyers">clients are pushing for value-based billing</a>. Cost savings, certainty and general efficiency are the top reasons why they want alternative billing structures, at 81%, 65% and 49% respectively.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">While many larger firms are only now switching to more flexible billing models, <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/small-law-firms-clients-managing-those-with-influence">small firms have embraced this model for a while</a>, so can it be argued that the smaller law firms and solo practitioner communities are more flexible?&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Is this why they can apply multiple types of fee arrangements, according to the client's wants, compared to their bigger counterparts?&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><a href="/products/lexis-plus-trial.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Discover how Lexis+ can increase your productivity, saving you time to work on high-value tasks that matter most to your clients</a>.</span></p><h4><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">How are smaller firms leading the way?&nbsp;</span></h4><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable=""><Bellwether 2023 report<</a></span></p>urn:uuid:4e913401-d7dc-4b57-8c21-a74673113fbb/blog/future-of-law/how-law-firms-can-get-more-website-visitors-with-seo-content-v2Future of LawIf you’re wondering what the magic formula is for getting your website to the top of Google, you’re not alone. A common issue for law firms we’ve worked with is the state of their website content. There’s a distinct lack of high quality pages ranking well on Google and bringing them lots of profitable web traffic.Mon, 02 Oct 2023 15:31:40 Z<p>If you&rsquo;re wondering what the magic formula is for getting your website to the top of Google, you&rsquo;re not alone. A common issue for law firms we&rsquo;ve worked with is the state of their website content. There&rsquo;s a distinct lack of high quality pages ranking well on Google and bringing them lots of profitable web traffic.</p><p>Although no-one knows for sure the precise nature of Google&rsquo;s algorithm, we do know what it takes to make great content that ranks &ndash; we&rsquo;ve done it so many times that we can identify the important elements.</p><p>It&rsquo;s relatively easy to create content that will generate you traffic &ndash; but you really want&nbsp;<em>relevant</em>&nbsp;traffic. That is, website visitors who are more likely to pick up the phone or fill in a contact form and become your client.&nbsp;</p><h4>Creating inbound SEO content</h4><p>When we&rsquo;re creating content for SEO, we consider three main factors:</p><ol type="1"><li>The&nbsp;goals&nbsp;of our content, which will inform the keywords we optimise for and the content we create</li><li>The&nbsp;intentions&nbsp;of our users, whether they&rsquo;re researching or ready to enquire</li><li>The&nbsp;design&nbsp;of our content, to make it engaging and optimised for search engines.</li></ol><h4>Your SEO goals</h4><p>Let&rsquo;s start with those goals. Every business is different &ndash; as a law firm, our main goals are to generate leads, primarily through contact forms. As such, our target keywords will be different, as will our best performing content.</p><p>A law firm site needs to&nbsp;<em>inform&nbsp;</em>people, which will steer our content. We might consider long-form articles, blogs, or even infographics. Google is looking for pages that offer authority on the subjects its users are searching for, so we need to demonstrate this expertise in our content.</p><h4>Your user intentions</h4><p>Though they may not know it, every time a user conducts a search, they&rsquo;re entering one of four query types.</p><p><strong>1. Informational queries</strong></p><p>Most common for law firms, these will usually start with 'how to' or 'what is' &ndash; something interrogative that calls for more information. Think about the value you offer and what you&rsquo;d ask a search engine.</p><p>Run a search and </p>urn:uuid:c24a8528-6273-49b8-955c-5c6eaffaf3ac/blog/future-of-law/growing-areas-of-the-law-2024Future of LawThe UU����ֱ�� GLP Index highlights the practice areas of the law that will grow the most in demand in 2024. Find out what's driving growth here.Sun, 01 Oct 2023 23:00:00 Z<p>The recent&nbsp;<a href="/legal/commercial-law" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="">UU����ֱ�� GLP Index</a>&nbsp;predicts an overall growth in demand for legal services in 2024 compared to 2023. Although not all areas of law will experience the expected growth, the index indicates strong growth across property, immigration, restructuring, and insolvency law. The demand for competition, plus risk and compliance law has flattened, and some practice areas are experiencing a decline in demand.&nbsp;</p><p>UU����ֱ�� looked at commentary and insights for all 12 law practice areas to help the profession plan for 2024 and beyond.&nbsp;<br></p><p>This article will look at the most significant growth areas and their trends.&nbsp;<br></p><h4><strong>Commercial law&nbsp;</strong><br></h4><p>Commercial lawyers work across everything from operations to supply chain logistics, product inception and creation, and business development. To measure demand for commercial lawyers, the GLP Index research team included a broader range of metrics that impact trade and commerce more, since measuring demand based on specific tasks could be misleading.&nbsp;<br></p><p>Looking back, the index revealed the demand for commercial lawyers rose in 2017 (+2%) and 2018 (+4%), respectively. However, Brexit and the pandemic resulted in a decline in 2019 and 2020 of -2% and -3% respectively. We needn't think further than the plethora of supply chain and other business issues to understand why.<br></p><p>As the pandemic eased and the lockdowns ended, the practice area saw a massive spike in demand, growing +12% in 2021 compared to 2020. However, the political and economic events of 2022 resulted in subdued growth of only +1%.&nbsp;<br></p><p>The good news is the index predicts a +4% increase in demand in 2023 to continue into 2024, with another +4% growth forecast for 2024.</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/glp-index-2024.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable=""><em>Download the UU����ֱ�� GLP Index 2024</em></a></p><p><strong>What is driving the growth?&nbsp;</strong><br></p><p>Digging into key growth drivers, the GLP Index team saw substantial trade import and export numbers, plus an increase in inward and outward foreign direct investment (FDI) positions.&nbsp;<br></p><p>Commercial law workloads are often closely linked to the sales and distribution functions. Annual ONS data for </p>urn:uuid:67b37a46-fd1e-49f9-8919-42c1ffc2709c/blog/future-of-law/declining-areas-of-the-law-2024Future of LawThe practice areas of the law that will decline in demand in the UK come 2024, according to the UU����ֱ�� GLP Index.Sun, 01 Oct 2023 23:00:00 Z<p><strong></strong>Although the recent UU����ֱ�� GLP Index predicts a subdued growth of +2% for the legal profession as a whole, unfortunately, some practice areas will see a downward trend in 2024.&nbsp;The Index team looked at various data points and gathered insights to see what we can expect in these practice areas.</p><p>This article will share those insights and discuss the trends influencing the decline in demand for some practice areas.</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/glp-index-2024.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable=""><em>Download the UU����ֱ�� GLP Index 2024</em></a></p><h4><strong>Criminal law&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>To determine whether the demand for criminal law expertise will grow or decline in 2024, the Index team looked at criminal justice statistics, Crown Court trials, Civil Court figures and many other data points. One of the key data sources came from the Ministry of Justice's Criminal Justice Statistics Quarterly.</p><p>From these sources, the team found the number of defendants proceeded against, offenders convicted, and offenders sentenced has decreased over time. However, the latest data show an increase in 2022 with 1.19m defendants proceeded against.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This figure is similar to 2020 (958k) and 2021(1.07m). However, the statistics for 2018 and 2019 had roughly 200,000 more defendants proceeded against than in recent years.&nbsp;</p><p>Data for offenders convicted and sentenced show a similar trend, with just over a million offenders convicted and sentenced across England and Wales in 2022.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What does this mean for 2024?&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The data reveal that demand for criminal law has steadily decreased over the years. In 2018 and 2019, it fell by -6% and -2%, respectively; in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, it dropped sharply by -26%.</p><p>2021 saw some growth, with the demand increasing by +8% compared to 2020. Unfortunately, this dipped again in 2022 by -2% and -4% in 2023.&nbsp;</p><p>Based on all data points, the GLP Index predicts a decline in demand for criminal expertise in 2024 by -3%.&nbsp;</p><p><em><a href="/legal/corporate-crime" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">View corporate criminal law practice notes, precedents and news articles<em>&nbsp;</em></a></em></p><h4><strong>Employment law&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>The Index team used the Ministry of Justice's Employment Tribunal statistics as the key data set. However, measuring annual statistics for employment law is currently tricky since the figures for 2021-2022 were not published due to the migration to the new tribunal case management system.</p><p>Employment law was the focus of many during the pandemic, with remote working, redundancies, and the government's furlough scheme causing many organisations to seek employment law advice.</p><p>Despite this, employment law workloads decreased significantly during 2020 and 2021. -4% and -29%, respectively. The index attributes this decline to a backlog in employment tribunal claims.</p><p>As employment tribun</p>urn:uuid:763c667b-2d07-4a48-a7c5-f2f8811eb76b/blog/future-of-law/how-can-small-law-firms-maintain-happy-lawyersFuture of LawIn the Bellwether 2023 report, we spoke to lawyers at small law firms about generating growth over the next 12 months. Most said they rely on their lawyers to drive new business, meaning talent retention and acquisition are paramount to growth. The ’great resignation’ during the pandemic taught us that if you want to retain staff, you need to offer an excellent work-life balance. Higher salaries are no longer the primary consideration. Traditionally, firms attracted or retained lawyers by offering bigger salaries and incentives. 60% of respondents said that their firm's offerings had ‘increased to become more competitive’ in the last 12 months. Only a quarter said there was ‘no change’. However, when asked if they were happy with their current salaries, less than half said they were, and 24% said they were "unsatisfied" or "very unsatisfied".  When asked about their satisfaction with their bonus scheme 37% felt "neutral", while only 33% were happy. 21% were "unsatisfied" or "very unsatisfied". When asked about their satisfaction with their company's commission scheme, 43% felt "neutral". So, what makes lawyers happy? The Bellwether 2023 report has unveiled that nearly three-quarters of lawyers said they're still "very satisfied" or "quite satisfied" with their career choice. What emerged is that a flexible work-life balance, learning, development opportunities, and a positive workplace culture are all important factors when assessing happiness at work.  The downside of failing to offer staff a good work-life balance has never been more apparent. If your lawyers aren't happy, they will leave. If they don't go, they'll become disengaged, doing the bare minimum, otherwise known as ’quiet quitting.’ Elizabeth Rimmer, Chief Executive Officer at LawCare, says career concerns are the third most common reason people have contacted them thus far in the year. "This willingness to question their life in the law may be partly a response to the pandemic: legal professionals could be reflecting on what they want from life and work and be less willing toFri, 29 Sep 2023 08:00:00 Z<div>In the <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Bellwether 2023 report</a>, we spoke to lawyers at small law firms about generating growth over the next 12 months. Most said they rely on their lawyers to drive new business, meaning <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/economic-ways-to-attract-new-business">talent retention and acquisition are paramount</a> to growth.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>The &rsquo;great resignation&rsquo; during the pandemic taught us that if you want to retain staff, you need to offer an excellent work-life balance. Higher salaries are no longer the primary consideration.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Traditionally, firms attracted or retained lawyers by offering bigger salaries and incentives. 60% of respondents said that their firm's offerings had &lsquo;increased to become more competitive&rsquo; in the last 12 months. Only a quarter said there was &lsquo;no change&rsquo;.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>However, when asked if they were happy with their current salaries, less than half said they were, and 24% said they were "unsatisfied" or "very unsatisfied".&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div><p>When asked about their satisfaction with their bonus scheme 37% felt "neutral", while only 33% were happy. 21% were "unsatisfied" or "very unsatisfied". When asked about their satisfaction with their company's commission scheme, 43% felt "neutral".<span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">&nbsp;</span></p><h4>So, what makes lawyers happy?&nbsp;<br></h4></div><div>The <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Bellwether 2023 report</a> has unveiled that nearly three-quarters of lawyers said they're still "very satisfied" or "quite satisfied" with their career choice. What emerged is that a flexible work-life balance, learning, development opportunities, and a positive workplace culture are all important factors when assessing happiness at work.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>The downside of failing to offer staff a good work-life balance has never been more apparent. If your lawyers aren't happy, they <strong><em>will</em></strong> leave. If they don't go, they'll become disengaged, doing the bare minimum, otherwise known as &rsquo;quiet quitting.&rsquo;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Elizabeth Rimmer, Chief Executive Officer at LawCare, says career concerns are the third most common reason people have contacted them thus far in the year. "This willingness to question their life in the law may be partly a response to the pandemic: legal professionals could be reflecting on what they want from life and work and be less willing to </div>urn:uuid:10c71f9e-8453-446b-ad03-cbb93d23f76c/blog/future-of-law/alternative-billing-the-secret-to-a-better-work-life-balance-for-lawyersFuture of LawShould we be 'Calling time on the billable hour'?The billable hour has been the standard payment method within the legal market for decades, regardless of its hotly debated pros and cons. However, we are now seeing an increase in work taking place through alternative billing. Our report, 'Calling time on the billable hour' spoke to lawyers, law firms and their clients for opinions on pricing structures and how this can impact work-life balances and building relationships.  Does the secret to a better work-life balance lie in flexible payment methods? It’s no secret that stress in the workplace has steadily increased over the past few decades. Lawyers are now the second most stressed professionals in the country. Targets for billable hours have long been the standard measure of performance for lawyers, and ‘Calling time on the billable hour’ showed targets can range from 800 to 2,000+ hours per year. Coupled, with the average working day being 10 hours for a junior lawyer in the UK and 14 in the US, you have to ask the question, is this the most effective and efficient way to work?In our article, ‘Is your billing structure causing your lawyers to leave’, Brad Wine, Global Co-Chair of Litigation at top 50 US firm Morrison & Foerster said: “One of the issues that really defines this new generation of lawyers is that they are really focused on their own mental health and wellness. That means we need to make sure we’re not burning people out and we need to make sure we’re providing associates with the tools they need to manage the stress that comes with this job.” Find out how Lexis+ can reduce stress by saving more than 8 minutes per legal task. It’s clear higher stress levels lead to burnout and a loss in productivity, LawCare’s ‘Life in Law’ reports more than 60% of lawyers surveyed in the UK and Ireland said they had recently experienced mental health issues and their well-being was suffering. Part of the problem may lie in the billable hours model. In the report,Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:00:00 Z<div><p>Should we be '<a href="/research-and-reports/billable-hour.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Calling time on the billable hour</a>'?</p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The billable hour has been the standard payment method within the legal market for decades, regardless of its <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/the-billable-hour-will-never-die-here-s-why">hotly debated pros and cons</a>. However, we are now seeing an increase in work taking place through alternative billing. Our report, '<a href="/research-and-reports/billable-hour.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Calling time on the billable hour</a>'&nbsp;spoke to lawyers, law firms and their clients for opinions on pricing structures and how this can impact work-life balances and building relationships.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><h4>Does the secret to a better work-life balance lie in flexible payment methods?&nbsp;</h4><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">It&rsquo;s no secret that stress in the workplace has steadily increased over the past few decades. Lawyers are now the second most stressed professionals in the country. Targets for billable hours have long been the standard measure of performance for lawyers, and &lsquo;<a href="/research-and-reports/billable-hour.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Calling time on the billable hour</a>&rsquo; showed targets can range from 800 to 2,000+ hours per year. Coupled, with the average working day being 10 hours for a junior lawyer in the UK and 14 in the US, you have to ask the question, is this the most <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]989FB383-18F1-4B05-860D-C7607CBE56BA/billable-hours-encourage-inefficiency-but-lawyers-can-deliver-better">effective and efficient way to work</a>?</span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">In our article, &lsquo;<a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/is-your-billable-hour-billing-structure-causing-your-lawyers-to-leave">Is your billing structure causing your lawyers to leave</a>&rsquo;, Brad Wine, Global Co-Chair of Litigation at top 50 US firm Morrison &amp; Foerster said: &ldquo;One of the issues that really defines this new generation of lawyers is that they are really focused on their own mental health and wellness. That means we need to make sure we&rsquo;re not burning people out and we need to make sure we&rsquo;re providing associates with the tools they need to manage the stress that comes with this job.&rdquo;&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><a href="/products/lexis-plus-trial.html?" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Find out how Lexis+ can reduce stress by saving more than 8 minutes per legal task.</a>&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">It&rsquo;s clear higher stress levels lead to burnout and a loss in productivity, LawCare&rsquo;s &lsquo;<a href="https://www.lawcare.org.uk/latest-news/life-in-the-law-new-research-into-lawyer-wellbeing/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Life in Law</a>&rsquo; reports more than 60% of lawyers surveyed in the UK and Ireland said they had recently experienced mental health issues and their well-being was suffering. Part of the problem may lie in the billable hours model.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:initial;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">In the report, </span></p></div>urn:uuid:fe5aa8ca-99d9-425e-b2e9-feefd584a836/blog/future-of-law/small-law-firms-clients-managing-those-with-influenceFuture of LawSmall law firms typically operate in the business-to-business sphere (B2B), and as much as market trends affect them, they also impact their clients. Trust, confidentiality, status, brand name and reputation used to determine which firm clients picked, however, this has changed drastically in recent years. The Bellwether 2023 report has investigated small law firms and solo practitioners' ability to anticipate, react and adapt to clients' differing needs and demands over the turbulence of the last few years. To understand clients' needs, firms must understand what affects them in the current market environment and how to deal with their new expectations. Being able to attract and retain clients is critical and will shape the winners and losers in the current and future legal arena. Clients and current market trends 81% of respondents of the Bellwether 2023 report believe attracting new business will be one of their biggest challenges over the next 12 months and 79% of respondents also believe that retaining current clients will be a top five challenge. Our previous article, ‘Five essential tips to manage client expectations’, explored current market trends, such as:Higher expectations of round-the-clock interactionSince the pandemic, we have all become more familiar with the use of tech in our working lives. Zoom meetings or video conferencing are the new standard form of interaction, which has led to an increased emphasis on immediate results, exemplifying this on-demand, 24/7 culture. This ultimately results in you being available 24/7 and turning tasks around immediately. Demands for greater transparencyWith open-sourced data and cloud-based CRM systems, clients know they can instantly access information. Firms can add or edit information at any time, enabling more opportunities for collaboration. But, greater transparency also comes with a greater sense of accountability. Price sensitivity and value for moneyTaking into consideration the current economic climate and the uncertain future, businesses are understandably becoming increasingly price-sensitive. The cost-of-living crisis so soon after the Covid-19 pandemic means clients need the best possible return on investment. They want results and expect competitive rates and to be able to prove and demonstrate value for money. Fee flexibilityClients are demanding fairer billing practices. Double billing has long been a problem, and with increased transparency and the ability to have greater flexibility with fees, it’s possible to investigate solutions. Platform law firms, for example, are increasingly opting for a fixed-fee basis, removing the risk of double billing and billing hours targets.Fri, 22 Sep 2023 09:37:43 Z<div><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Small law firms typically operate in the business-to-business sphere (B2B), and as much as market trends affect them, they also impact their clients. Trust, confidentiality, status, brand name and reputation used to determine which firm clients picked, however, this has changed drastically in recent years.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color:initial;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"></span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">The <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Bellwether 2023 report</a> has investigated small law firms and solo practitioners' ability to anticipate, react and adapt to clients' differing needs and demands over the turbulence of the last few years.&nbsp;</span><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">To understand clients' needs, firms must understand what affects them in the current market environment and how to deal with their new expectations. Being able to attract and retain clients is critical and will shape the winners and losers in the current and future legal arena.&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><h4><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Clients and current market trends </span></h4><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">81% of respondents of the <a href="/research-and-reports/bellwether-2023.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Bellwether 2023 report</a> believe <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/economic-ways-to-attract-new-business">attracting new business</a> will be one of their biggest challenges over the next 12 months and 79% of respondents also believe that retaining current clients will be a top five challenge.&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Our previous article, &lsquo;<a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/five-essential-tips-to-manage-client-expectations">Five essential tips to manage client expectations</a>&rsquo;, explored current market trends, such as:</span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><strong>Higher expectations of round-the-clock interaction</strong></span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Since the pandemic, we have all become more familiar with the use of <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-is-technology-used-in-law-making">tech in our working lives</a>. Zoom meetings or video conferencing are the new standard form of interaction, which has led to an increased emphasis on immediate results, exemplifying this on-demand, 24/7 culture. This ultimately results in you being available 24/7 and turning tasks around immediately.&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><strong>Demands for greater transparency</strong></span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">With open-sourced data and cloud-based CRM systems, clients know they can instantly access information. Firms can add or edit information at any time, enabling more opportunities for collaboration. But, greater transparency also comes with a greater sense of accountability.&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><strong>Price sensitivity and value for money</strong></span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Taking into consideration the current economic climate and the uncertain future, businesses are understandably becoming increasingly price-sensitive. The cost-of-living crisis so soon after the <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-are-demands-changing-for-law-firm-clients-during-covid-19">Covid-19 pandemic means clients need the best possible return on investment</a>. They want results and expect competitive rates and to be able to prove and demonstrate value for money.&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;"><strong>Fee flexibility</strong></span></p></div><div><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:inherit;font-family:inherit;font-size:inherit;text-align:inherit;text-transform:inherit;word-spacing:normal;caret-color:auto;white-space:inherit;">Clients are demanding fairer billing practices. <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]7B419546-9BE7-4547-B040-49D402C6565E/how-law-firms-can-maximise-billings-from-their-lawyers">Double billing</a> has long been a problem, and with increased transparency and the ability to have greater flexibility with fees, it&rsquo;s possible to investigate solutions. Platform law firms, for example, are increasingly opting for a fixed-fee basis, removing the risk of double billing and billing hours targets.</span></p></div><div><p><span></span></p></div>urn:uuid:a919219d-edc7-494a-a440-62331d16a442/blog/future-of-law/the-case-for-generative-ai-for-private-practice-lawyersFuture of LawA recent UU����ֱ�� report explored the role of generative AI in the legal sector. We look at why private practice lawyers are overcoming reluctance around generative AI and how to use the techMon, 18 Sep 2023 11:26:21 Z<p><strong>A recent UU����ֱ�� report explored the role of generative AI in the legal sector. We look at why private practice lawyers are overcoming reluctance around generative AI and how to use the tech</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The recent UU����ֱ�� report, <a href="https://preview.shorthand.com/QopG90rrOCk8WIe4" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Generative AI and the future of the legal profession</a>, aimed to understand awareness of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal sector, with a section specifically exploring the ways in which private practice lawyers can apply generative AI.</p><p>Private practice lawyers are using generative AI, but less than in-house lawyers, with just over a third (36%) using the tech. Private practice lawyers at small firms use it least of all. Indeed, the <a href="https://preview.shorthand.com/QopG90rrOCk8WIe4" data-sf-ec-immutable="">UU����ֱ�� report</a> broadly suggests the larger the organisation, the more likely they are to employ generative AI.</p><p>None of that is particularly surprising. Private practice is typically more risk-averse and more conservative in its approach to tech. But many private practice lawyers have started to use generative AI in thoughtful and innovative ways, and many have already noticed the <a href="https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/tip/7-top-generative-AI-benefits-for-business" data-sf-ec-immutable="">substantial benefits</a> it brings.</p><p>In this article, we want to explore how private practice lawyers are using generative AI to improve their comms, support user research, train staff, manage risk, and so much more. </p><p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><h4><strong>How private practice lawyers use generative AI</strong></h4><p>Private practice lawyers who fail to take advantage of AI will struggle in the marketplace. There are so many incredible uses for AI in private practice and we&rsquo;ll explore the best below, giving you a sense of how private practice lawyers might employ generative AI in the present and the future.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h5><em><strong>To boost productivity</strong></em></h5><p>Most people have been using generative AI to complete small-scale and non-legal tasks. Private practice lawyers are mainly using text-based generative AI <a href="[f669d9a7-009d-4d83-ddaa-000000000002]DAB99E6B-08FF-4788-AE71-6B01D9199FDD/chatgpt-user-beware">platforms such as ChatGPT</a>. As referenced in the UU����ֱ�� report, the main uses for generative AI at present are early research (66%), briefing memos and documents (59%), and perform document analysis (47%).</p><p>Private practice lawyers are using generative AI largely in a non-legal way, similar to its use across the wider economy. In short, most lawyers are using AI to quickly and easily boost productivity. Many of the below tasks, for example, can be quickly improved, optimised, or automated using generative AI:</p><ul><li>Producing memos, briefs, e-mails, documents, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2023/06/02/demystifying-generative-ai-for-communicators/" data-sf-ec-immutable="">and other comms</a></li><li><a href="https://hbr.org/2022/11/how-generative-ai-is-changing-creative-work" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Producing content</a> &ndash; images, writt</li></ul>