Work load pressure, remote work and the challenges of 2024

In this edition, we take a look at the current legal market, dive deeper into the findings of our 2024 Legal Trends Report and look back on the past weeks.

You can now read the Legal Trends Report 2024 where we interviewed legal professionals from more than 120 UK law firms of varying sizes to gain their insight into the key challenges facing UK firms. Gain valuable insight into the way the legal market is moving in 2024.

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?? Current state of the Market

Nothing 'inherently improper' about using AI, Bar Council tells practitioners – Bar chair?Sam Townend KC said: 'The growth of AI tools in the legal sector is inevitable and, as the guidance explains, the best-placed barristers will be those who make the efforts to understand these systems so that they can be used with control and integrity.'

Star tech: the next generation – Joanna Goodman at the Law Gazette takes a look at the modern wave of recruitment and how technology is shaping it “We want candidates to show a deep interest in technology and tech development, as well as a motivation to learn about the way law firms provide services to their clients and work as a business.”

Nominations open for Legal Heroes 2024 - President of the Society Nick Emmerson said: 'We are excited to be once again celebrating solicitors who are committed to helping people in their local communities and beyond.?Solicitors are the backbone of the justice system, and our Legal Heroes are people who use their skills, expertise and drive to put the interests of others first, demonstrating the core values which are at the heart of our profession: helping others in need.'

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?? Latest releases

Half of law firms want to reduce remote working - Fifty per cent of firms surveyed for the Advanced Legal Trends Report 2023/24 said that they were actively looking at ways to increase the amount of time employees spend in the office, with a third (27%) saying that managing hybrid working is one of their biggest challenges.

The biggest challenges facing law firms in 2024 - The last few years have brought about great change within the legal industry, as firms have adapted and changed to the moving landscape. It is more than likely that 2024 will continue with this trend, however, understanding the challenges you face in the coming year will help you define your next steps and understand what needs to be prioritised.

Where software meets the biggest challenges facing firms - The legal industry is constantly evolving, and in 2024, law firms will continue to face unique challenges and opportunities. While the challenges are numerous, four of the biggest concerns are employee work-life balance, client demands, AI worries, and cybersecurity threats. There's good news however, using the right software with trusted providers, and tailored legal AI solutions can assist in alleviating these challenges.

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? Reads you may have missed

Let’s take a look back at some of our favourite reads!

How diversity and inclusion effects talent management - The legal industry is one of the most competitive fields, and the talent market is no exception. In today's world, diversity, and inclusion (D&I) have become critical factors in attracting and retaining top talent. With 33% of firms stating that attracting and retaining talent is their number one priority, law firms must realise that D&I is not just a social responsibility; it is essential for successful talent management.

What measured AI looks like in today's legal practices - In an era where technology is reshaping the landscape of legal practices, UK law firms are increasingly turning their attention to the potential benefits of AI. According to recent surveys, over a quarter of UK law firms are already leveraging some form of AI, while almost half are actively exploring the possibilities of integrating AI tools into their operations.

Strategies to alleviate workload pressure - Workload pressure is an ever-present, ever-evolving challenge. As a legal professional, finding effective ways to alleviate this pressure not only enhances the well-being of your team but also contributes to the overall success of your firm. Here, we explore key strategies to lower workload pressure and provide crucial support to your staff, focusing on workload pressure & work autonomy, empowering your team, leading by example, and creating a positive workplace.

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? The end of the end of year review

Don’t miss out on our upcoming webinar this Thursday at 2pm, focused on review systems, and why the end of year review is a thing of the past. Join us as we look at ways to revamp performance reviews including continuous reviews and see how to build a feedback system interconnected through the whole organisation.

Register for the end of the end of year review now!

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As the legal industry continues to evolve, we will keep you informed every step of the way. Remember to stay up to date with the latest trends and developments. Ensuring that your law firm is secure, and your staff and clients are happy.

We look forward to bringing you more insights and tips.

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