The American Bar Association’s (ABA) pro bono project enjoyed the most volunteer participation ever in 2021, with more than 140 attorneys handling at least 50 legal inquiries last year.

The online program, ABA Free Legal Answers, includes participation from more than 10,000 U.S. lawyers in 45 states, according to information from the trade group. The web-based ask-and-answer service is aimed at helping income-eligible residents get legal assistance from volunteer attorneys.

“For those who cannot afford an attorney and have nowhere else to turn, ABA Free Legal Answers serves as a critical resource,” said ABA President Reginald Turner in a statement. “We are proud of the more than 10,000 volunteer lawyers nationwide who are helping to meet these important legal needs, and particularly pleased about the efforts of our FLA Pro Bono Leaders. We urge other attorneys to step up and assist as well.”

Recently, the ABA recognized the most prolific volunteer attorneys with the publication of its 2021 Pro Bono Leaders list. Texas led the pack with 14 individuals, organizations, schools or law firms answering more than 50 inquiries. Illinois, though, was a close second with 13 such entities qualifying for recognition.

“ABA Free Legal Answers offers a flexible online platform, even in pandemic conditions, to do this important pro bono work from our offices, homes, makeshift workstations at the courthouse and on our own time,” said attorney Brandon A. Robinson. “Participating on the platform with hundreds of North Carolinians has been one of my daily joys during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

From Twitter

Ukraine Advice Project UK @ukraine_advice Mar 11

"IMPORTANT UPDATE Since the project began on Monday 28 February, the response from the profession has been humbling, and somewhat overwhelming. The project has registered over 430 volunteer lawyers to date and given pro bono advice on almost 700 requests."

According to the ABA, the program has helped answer close to 200,000 inquiries and has doubled in volume over the last two years.

Earlier this year, The Association of Pro Bono Counsel put out a report detailing the impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on the pro bono service industry, and highlighted some of the ways to retain best practices moving forward. The report “Positive Change: How the Pandemic Changed Pro Bono and What We Should Keep,” includes analysis from the legal services community, non-profit legal advocates and experts in the field, according to the Counsel. “We hope it will spark thoughtful discussion about how we pro bono volunteers, legal services organizations, bar associations and the courts can continue to expand access to justice for all members of our communities,” reads information from the group.

According to the report, the Counsel recommends legal service providers offer things like virtual clinics, online platforms, in-person meetings when technological resources are unavailable, technological resources for volunteers and e-filing, among other things.

“This final report documents changes to the delivery of pro bono legal services during the pandemic, with the focus primarily on how the adjustments to intake, representation and advocacy impacted clients,” notes the report. “Our hope is that documenting and sharing these experiences and practices will inspire those responsible for delivering pro bono legal services… and those responsible for the systems with which pro bono client communities interact … to consider keeping the changes that benefited client communities, and to continue to develop accessible, client-centered systems that deliver just outcomes.”

What is document automation?

Document automation means creating automated templates, using software, for legal documents (such as contracts).

Once the templates are created, users of the software usually answer questionnaires. Once it has this information, the software can instantly generate the contract, and you’re done.

The purpose is to automate the repetitive process of building a document from scratch each time you need a new contract.

In practice, many contracts are extremely similar, with just a few variations. So, for example, once you create an NDA template, the next time you need an NDA, you can generate the template much more quickly using the questionnaire.

 

 

 

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As a lawyer, you might not think of your work as “creative.”

True, on your off time, you might pursue creative endeavors such as writing, cooking, painting, or practicing a musical instrument. But the practice of law requires a rigorously analytic mindset that relies on precise, predictable processes and precedents.

From a professional standpoint, you probably relegate “creativity” to realms like advertising and product design.

But take a closer look at what you do, and you’ll see that you’re often called upon to come up with solutions that aren’t necessarily found in case law and legal textbooks.

During a difficult negotiation you’re handling for a business client, say, or in researching a legal problem that seems to have no obvious precedents, you may have suddenly come upon the solution while reading a book on a different topic, or while mulling over the matter during a long walk.

 

 

 

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There’s no question about it, content marketing is today’s marketing. It’s what everyone in the marketing world is talking about and has been talking about for the last couple of years.

And with good reason: within one broad banner, content marketing encompasses almost every aspect of marketing, client engagement and brand promotion.

It makes sense, then, that content marketing has been touted as the “must have” strategy for businesses, and many have jumped on board the content marketing train.

According to Hubspot, content marketing generates three times as many leads as traditional marketing but costs 62% less. Furthermore, companies that publish at least 16 blog posts per month average 3.5 times more traffic than those that post four or fewer.

 

 

 

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General Electric's general counsel's 2012 compensation package afforded him almost $11 million in cash, making him the highest paid general counsel on Corporate Counsel magazine's latest list of the nation's 100 highest paid GCs. So reports Law.com.

At $1,853,671, the average take-home pay enjoyed by the lawyers on the list this year is the highest it has ever been.

Read the full article from Law.com here.

After entering a guilty plea, John Farahi, founder of Newpoint Financial Services Inc., was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on March 20, according to a National Law Journal story. The Beverly Hills businessman admitted his role in a $20 million Ponzi scheme and the plea could have ramifications for former Nixon Peabody securities partner David Tamman, who was found guilty for his role in the scheme.

Tamman’s lawyer, though, insists the two instances are different and “suspect the judge will listen to what we have to say and make a decision accordingly."

Read the full article from the National Law Journal here.

A Los Angeles nutrition company is locked in a legal battle with billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who has accused the company of perpetuating a pyramid scheme. Herbalife officials said the company will up their legal defense costs from $25 million to $40 million in the wake of Ackman’s accusations, according to a Los Angeles Times article.

Ackman, who reportedly bet $1 billion the company is a sham, has said most of the company’s sales people lose money and expects the company’s shares to fall to zero.

Read the full article from the Los Angeles Times here.

When attorney F. Lee Bailey was indicted for mail fraud in 1973, he quoted a popular aphorism referencing the difference between how England and the U.S. treat their criminal defense lawyers.  “In England they are apt to be knighted; in the United States they are apt to be indicted.”  There is quite a bit of truth in the saying and the dangers inherent in practicing law in the U.S. are not only faced by defense lawyers.  Sensing an opportunity, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently set its sights on corporate in-house counsel.

In November, 2010, Lauren Stevens, a former vice president and general counsel for pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline, was indicted on federal charges of making false statements and obstructing a federal investigation.  Stevens was accused of making false and misleading statements in a series of letters to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on behalf of her employer.  Despite it having been obvious from the beginning that Stevens was only relaying information furnished by her client and had no intent or motive to mislead federal investigators, she was enthusiastically pursued by the DOJ.  “Where facts and law allow, the Justice Department will pursue individuals responsible for illegal conduct just as vigorously as we pursue corporations,” Tony West, assistant attorney general for the civil division, said in a statement.  It should be noted that despite the DOJ’s stated commitment to pursue corporations, GlaxoSmithKline’s name was noticeably absent from the Stevens indictment.  West continued, “Criminal charges are appropriate when false statements such as those alleged here are made to the FDA.”

Read the full article here...

Explore the latest trends in legal technology and how they are transforming the legal industry. Learn about digital transformation and innovative tools improving efficiency.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of legal practice, technology stands as a catalyst for transformative change. The introduction of advanced technologies has redefined how law firms operate, streamlining processes and improving client services.

Today, legal technology encompasses a wide array of tools and solutions designed to enhance efficiency and accuracy within legal operations. From Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven contract analysis to blockchain-based document management, these innovations are reshaping the legal industry. A notable trend in recent days is the rising adoption of legal analytics, which leverages data to predict case outcomes and optimize strategies.

One example of technology paving the way forward is the use of AI in legal research. By automating mundane and repetitive tasks, AI allows legal professionals to focus on high-value activities, significantly improving productivity. Major law firms are investing in AI-powered platforms that can swiftly analyze vast amounts of data, extracting valuable insights that assist in case preparation and strategy development.

Another trend gaining momentum is the use of cloud-based solutions for document storage and collaboration. As remote work becomes a norm, cloud technology provides a secure and accessible platform for teams to collaborate effectively from different locations. This shift not only reduces operational costs but also enhances data security, a critical consideration in the legal sector.

A success story worth mentioning is that of a top legal firm based in New York, which integrated a comprehensive suite of digital tools into their operations. By embracing innovations such as virtual consultations and digital client management systems, the firm reported a 30% increase in client satisfaction and a 20% reduction in case processing time.

As technology continues to evolve, law firms must remain agile and embrace these advancements to maintain their competitive edge. The commitment to continuous learning and adaptation is essential for navigating the complex and dynamic environment of modern legal practice.

Explore the rising cybersecurity threats facing law firms today and the necessary measures required to protect sensitive client information.

In today's digital era, the legal industry is grappling with a concerning rise in cyber threats. Law firms, famously known for housing sensitive client information, are increasingly becoming attractive targets for cybercriminals. This recent trend in heightened cybersecurity threats has prompted a serious reevaluation of cybersecurity protocols across law firms.

As technology advances, so does the sophistication of cyber attacks. Law firms, often perceived as data goldmines, are advised to adopt comprehensive cybersecurity measures to protect against imminent breaches. Recent reports suggest an alarming increase in phishing scams, ransomware attacks, and data breaches targeting legal firms. The risks are not just financial but extend to reputational damage and potential legal liabilities if client data is compromised.

In one notable incident from a leading law firm, attackers managed to infiltrate the firm's network, accessing confidential case files and client information. This breach not only caused temporary business disruption but also enforced substantial reputational damage, emphasizing the pressing need for robust cybersecurity frameworks.

To mitigate these risks, law firms should prioritize regular security audits and employee training sessions on the latest cyber threats. Investing in cybersecurity technologies such as encryption, firewalls, and multi-factor authentication can create substantial barriers against unauthorized access. Additionally, maintaining updated backup systems ensures data integrity and business continuity in the event of a cyber breach.

It's crucial for firms to establish a culture of cybersecurity awareness, making it a shared responsibility amongst all employees. One approach could be to conduct simulated cyber attack exercises to test and improve response strategies. Firms should also consider partnering with cybersecurity service providers for expert consultation and to leverage advanced technologies.

The ever-changing landscape of cybercrime requires modern law firms to remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity strategies. As trusted guardians of sensitive data, legal professionals must lead in advocating for stronger safeguards and creating an impregnable defense against future threats. Protecting client interests in the digital sphere is as crucial as the legal counsel provided within courtrooms.

Explore how digital transformation is reshaping the legal industry, highlighting the impact of AI, data privacy concerns, and the rise of virtual courtrooms and legal tech startups.

The legal industry is experiencing a seismic shift as digital transformation continues to reshape traditional practice. With the rise of advanced legal technology tools, lawyers are now tasked with adapting to a rapidly evolving landscape. This transformation is not just about adopting new technology; it's about redefining the way legal services are delivered to clients.
One of the most significant changes is the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence and machine learning in legal research and document review. These technologies enable faster analysis of vast amounts of data, which is particularly beneficial for case preparation and evidence discovery. Many law firms, including those leading the industry, have reported significant time savings and improved accuracy when utilizing these tools.
Data privacy and cybersecurity have also emerged as critical areas of focus. With more law firms storing sensitive client information digitally, the risk of data breaches has escalated. This has necessitated the implementation of robust cyber defense strategies to protect client confidentiality and comply with legal regulations. Legal practitioners must now be well-versed in data protection laws to mitigate these risks effectively.
A real-life example illustrating the power of technology in the legal field is the utilization of smart contracts within blockchain technology. These self-executing contracts have the potential to reduce the need for intermediaries and streamline transactions, offering clients more efficient and transparent processes. Many firms are investing in understanding blockchain implications to stay ahead of the curve.
Additionally, virtual courtrooms have gained traction, especially in the wake of the global pandemic. Remote hearings have revolutionized courtroom proceedings, providing a more flexible approach to justice. Law firms are increasingly required to equip themselves with the necessary infrastructure to participate effectively in these virtual settings.
Finally, the rise of legal tech startups is changing the competitive landscape. These startups are challenging traditional legal service models by offering innovative solutions that address emerging client needs. For example, companies focusing on patent law are developing sophisticated databases that help attorneys streamline the patent application process, leading to faster and more efficient outcomes.
In conclusion, the integration of technology in the legal industry is not an option but a necessity. Legal professionals must embrace this digital transformation to enhance their practice and meet the evolving demands of clients. As the pace of technological innovation accelerates, staying informed and proactive is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.

Explore how AI is revolutionizing legal practices through enhanced research and contract analysis. Learn about AI-powered tools transforming the legal industry.

The legal industry, often seen as a bastion of tradition, is undergoing a significant transformation driven by technological advancements. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this evolution, especially in the realms of legal research and contract analysis. The efficiency and accuracy offered by AI-powered tools are redefining how legal professionals perform their work, marking a new era in the legal practice.

Legal research, historically a time-consuming task, has seen remarkable changes with the integration of AI. Tools like ROSS Intelligence and Casetext's CARA leverage natural language processing to quickly sift through vast volumes of legal texts, precedents, and court rulings to provide relevant information, saving attorneys countless hours of manual work. This technological leap not only boosts productivity but also enhances the quality of legal argumentation by making lesser-known or overlooked cases readily accessible.

In the domain of contract analysis, AI is proving to be a game changer. Platforms such as Kira Systems and LawGeex use machine learning algorithms to meticulously analyze contracts for clauses, terms, and potential risks. These tools significantly reduce human error, standardize contract review processes, and accelerate decision-making by highlighting anomalies and unfavorable terms early in the review process. In a case I came across from a prominent law firm, the implementation of AI-driven contract review software reduced the time spent on each contract by 80%, showcasing a tangible benefit in terms of both time and cost.

Despite these transformative benefits, the rise of AI in legal practice is not without its challenges. Data privacy, a critical concern, demands stringent compliance with standards to ensure confidential information remains protected. The legal professionals must understand the underlying mechanisms of AI tools to effectively interpret their outputs and integrate them seamlessly into their practice to maximize their benefits.

However, AI's potential in creating new job opportunities and legal roles should not be overlooked. As the technology becomes more integrated into legal processes, roles like legal tech consultants, AI ethics strategists, and tech-savvy legal advisors are gaining prominence. These positions represent the confluence of legal expertise and technological acumen, heralding a future where legal and tech professionals work closely to refine and expand the capabilities of AI in law.

As AI continues to evolve, embracing its capabilities allows legal professionals to focus on more strategic, value-driven tasks. This not only positions them at the cutting edge of legal practice but also ensures they continue to deliver timely and excellent service to their clients.

Explore how legal tech has revolutionized Big Law firms with AI, e-discovery, cybersecurity, and cloud-based platforms, reshaping legal services.

In recent years, Big Law firms have undergone a profound transformation, driven by the integration of innovative legal technology. The evolution of legal tech has reshaped how these firms operate, offering more efficient services and streamlining processes in ways previously unimaginable.

Legal technology encompasses a broad spectrum of tools and solutions designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of legal practice. From document automation to advanced analytics, technology is revolutionizing how legal services are delivered.

One of the most significant breakthroughs in Big Law is the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI-driven tools now assist lawyers in tasks ranging from contract review to legal research, significantly reducing the time and effort required. For instance, AI platforms can quickly identify relevant case law, saving attorneys countless hours traditionally spent poring over legal texts.

Another advancement is the rise of e-discovery tools. These tools leverage algorithms to sift through large volumes of data, pinpointing critical evidence with remarkable speed and accuracy. Such technological prowess enhances the ability of law firms to respond promptly during litigation, giving them a competitive edge.

Big Law firms are also investing heavily in cybersecurity to protect sensitive client information. As cyber threats continue to rise, the integration of robust cybersecurity measures within legal tech solutions is essential to maintaining client trust and compliance with regulations.

The adoption of cloud-based platforms has enabled more flexible, remote work environments. These platforms facilitate seamless collaboration, allowing teams to work together regardless of geography. This flexibility has become particularly important in the aftermath of the global pandemic, as firms adapt to hybrid work models.

Real-life examples illustrate the transformative power of legal tech. Global firms such as Latham & Watkins have been at the forefront of adopting innovative solutions. Their use of AI in conducting due diligence and intellectual property research exemplifies how technology can create efficiencies, allowing lawyers to focus on high-value client advisory services.

Furthermore, the digitization of legal processes has contributed to a more client-centric approach. Clients now demand transparency, efficiency, and value for their investment. Through client portals and digital communication tools, Big Law firms are providing clients with greater access to information and progress updates.

As legal technology continues to advance, the future of Big Law is poised for further transformation. The ability to adapt and integrate new technologies will be key to maintaining competitiveness and delivering exceptional service in the legal industry.

Explore the latest trends in Big Law, with a focus on technological integration, client demands, and evolving compliance frameworks. Understand how major law firms are adapting to maintain their competitive edge.

The legal landscape, particularly within Big Law firms, is undergoing transformative changes driven by technological advancements, regulatory updates, and evolving client demands.

Recently, there has been a significant focus on the integration of artificial intelligence in legal practices. Major firms are adopting AI-driven technologies to streamline their operations, particularly in e-discovery and contract analysis. This pivot not only enhances efficiency but also offers a competitive edge in delivering precision-driven legal services.

Moreover, there is an increasing demand for alternative billing arrangements. Clients are pressing for more transparent and predictable pricing models, moving away from the traditional hourly billing method. This shift aligns with the greater trend towards value-based services across various sectors.

Another notable trend is the diversification of service offerings. Big Law firms are expanding their expertise beyond pure legal counsel, incorporating advisory roles in risk management and business strategy. This holistic approach serves to meet the comprehensive needs of corporate clients grappling with multifaceted challenges.

In light of regulatory changes, law firms are also reshaping their compliance frameworks. This is particularly evident in sectors like data protection and cybersecurity, where adherence to new laws is paramount.

Finally, talent acquisition and retention remain core challenges. Big Law firms are increasingly focusing on creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. This involves re-evaluating traditional recruitment practices and promoting a culture that supports varied perspectives and backgrounds.

As these trends continue to shape the landscape of Big Law, firms must remain agile and adaptive to maintain their market position and continue meeting client expectations.

Explore the implications of recent Big Law mergers on the legal industry's landscape, focusing on the integration of technology and strategic expansion.

Recently, the legal industry has been seeing a wave of mergers among some of the most prominent Big Law firms. These landmark mergers are reshaping the contours of what we traditionally understand as Big Law, promising both opportunities and challenges in the dynamics of legal service delivery. These mergers are often driven by the need to expand geographical footprints and augment service capabilities. With global clients seeking uniformity in service standards across borders, big firms are positioning themselves to cater to such demands. Take, for instance, the merger between two top 20 U.S. law firms that was recently announced. By combining their resources, these firms can better serve clients with a more comprehensive suite of services while streamlining operations to improve efficiency. One key area where these mergers aim to make an impact is through technology and innovation. As these firms combine, they bring together cutting-edge technologies and practices that allow them to offer better and more efficient services. This includes deploying advanced legal tech solutions for document review, AI-driven compliance checks, and blockchain-based tools for contract management. Such integrations not only promise cost efficiency but also pave the way for more dynamic and responsive legal services. However, such mergers are not without their challenges. They often involve complex integration processes that require the harmonization of corporate cultures and operational practices. Differences in billing structures, technological setups, and even client management philosophies must be addressed to ensure smooth transition and continuity of services. Lessons from past mergers show that overlooking cultural integration can lead to internal conflicts and diminish merger benefits. Moreover, the legal talent market is still assessing the implications of these mergers. While they generally offer employees greater resources and opportunities for growth, they also come with increased performance expectations and a competitive internal environment. For clients, while the combined entity might offer enhanced services and geographical reach, it could also mean higher billing rates due to the firms' expanded scope and prestige. Given these prospects and challenges, it is vital for firms contemplating mergers to engage in thorough due diligence and strategic alignment. A successful merger is one that is perceived not only as a synergy of financial performance but also as an amalgamation of talents and shared visions.

Discover how Big Law firms are revolutionizing their operations by embracing virtual courtrooms, offering increased efficiency and reach while addressing security concerns.

The legal industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with Big Law firms leading the way in adapting to cutting-edge technologies. One of the most significant trends shaping the sector today is the adoption of virtual courtrooms. As firms look to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and extend their reach, virtual proceedings are becoming a mainstream practice.
Virtual courtrooms offer multiple benefits. For starters, they significantly reduce the logistical burden associated with traditional in-person court hearings. By adopting digital platforms, law firms can connect with clients and courts from across the globe without the need for extensive travel. This not only streamlines operations but also reduces the carbon footprint of legal professionals.
A fascinating business case that illustrates this trend involves a major law firm in New York. During the pandemic, this firm transitioned to virtual courtrooms out of necessity. Since then, it has seen a dramatic decrease in overhead costs and a boost in client engagement. The convenience offered by virtual hearings means clients can better manage their schedules, leading to higher satisfaction rates.
However, the shift to virtual courtrooms is not without challenges. Security and data privacy remain paramount concerns, as sensitive information is exchanged over digital platforms. Law firms are increasingly investing in robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard client data and ensure compliance with regulations.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of virtual courtrooms also hinges on the technological proficiency of legal professionals. Firms are investing in training programs to equip their lawyers with the necessary skills to navigate digital platforms efficiently.
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in virtual courtrooms is also expanding. AI-powered tools are being deployed to streamline document review processes, analysis, and even predict case outcomes. By leveraging AI, attorneys can focus more on strategic legal counsel rather than administrative tasks.
In this rapidly evolving landscape, the ability to adapt and innovate will define the future success of Big Law firms. As virtual courtrooms become the norm, firms that embrace this change and integrate technology into their operations stand to gain a competitive edge.