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 transformative impact of legal technology on law firms, highlighting AI, cloud solutions, and cybersecurity advancements reshaping the legal landscape.

The legal industry is witnessing an unprecedented evolution as technology continues to transform traditional practices. With the advancement of legal technology, law firms are now equipped to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve client satisfaction.

One of the most significant trends in legal technology is the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI). AI is revolutionizing how lawyers conduct legal research and draft documents. With AI-powered tools, law firms can quickly sift through vast amounts of legal data to find relevant case laws and precedents. This reduces the time attorneys spend on research, allowing them to dedicate more time to strategizing and advising their clients.

For instance, prominent firms like Baker McKenzie have integrated AI in their processes, yielding significant improvements in both speed and accuracy. This integration not only enhances productivity but also provides their clients with smarter, data-driven legal advice.

Furthermore, the adoption of cloud-based solutions is changing how firms store and access data. Cloud platforms offer a flexible and scalable infrastructure ensuring that case files, client information, and legal documents are securely stored and easily accessible from anywhere. This transition to the cloud is particularly beneficial for remote work arrangements, a necessity during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, with digital transformation comes the heightened risk of cybersecurity threats. Protecting sensitive information is paramount for law firms. Consequently, firms must employ robust cybersecurity measures. According to a recent study by the ABA, over 23% of law firms experienced a cyberattack in the past year, underscoring the need for sophisticated security protocols.

Embracing e-discovery tools is another game-changer in the legal tech landscape. These tools streamline the discovery process, allowing for the efficient review of electronic documents. This efficiency is critical, particularly in complex litigation cases where the volume of electronic data can be overwhelming.

With these technological advancements, the legal sector is poised for continued transformation. Law firms that embrace these changes will not only gain a competitive edge but will also be better positioned to meet client demands in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Discover how Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing legal practice, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in law firms, while ethical and regulatory considerations evolve in parallel.

The legal industry is experiencing a technological renaissance with Artificial Intelligence (AI) taking center stage. This transformation is reshaping how law firms operate and manage cases, leading to more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective legal services.
As AI continues to evolve, it not only augments the capabilities of legal professionals but also redefines the boundaries of law practice.
Recent trends highlight the growing adoption of AI-driven tools in legal research and contract review. AI algorithms can sift through millions of legal documents in seconds, a task that would take human researchers days or even weeks. With firms like Deloitte utilizing innovative AI platforms, the speed and precision of legal research have increased manifold, allowing legal practitioners to focus more on strategic decision-making and client interaction.
Contract analysis is another sphere witnessing AI's transformative impact. AI-powered systems can identify potential risks, clauses, and anomalies within contracts at a fraction of the time compared to manual review. In fact, Ernst & Young (EY) has implemented AI for contract management, achieving an impressive reduction in human error rates. This technological incorporation enhances compliance and due diligence processes, crucial for maintaining the integrity of legal operations.
Furthermore, AI's predictive analytics capabilities are assisting law firms in forecasting case outcomes. These insights enable attorneys to develop data-driven litigation strategies, thereby increasing their success odds. Leading firms like PWC (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP) are leveraging predictive analytics to offer clients more accurate assessments of their legal situations, tailoring their approaches accordingly.
However, the integration of AI in law practice is not without challenges. Concerns around data privacy, security, and ethical implications remain critical. Law firms must ensure their AI systems comply with ongoing regulatory changes, safeguarding client data while preventing potential misuse. As KPMG highlights, while AI has the potential to revolutionize the legal sector, meticulous adherence to ethical standards is paramount in its deployment.
AI's role in legal practice is undeniable, with more firms worldwide adopting these advanced technologies. As this trend continues, it promises a future where artificial intelligence acts as a key partner to lawyers, while also posing questions about the limits and responsibilities of technology in law. It is crucial for the legal community to navigate these developments responsibly, balancing innovation with the principles of justice and ethical practice.

Discover how AI-powered legal tools are revolutionizing the legal industry, enhancing efficiency, and transforming legal processes. Learn about the benefits and ethical considerations as AI continues to shape the future of law.

The legal industry is witnessing a transformative shift, driven by the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. AI-powered legal tools are reshaping the landscape, offering law firms and legal practitioners innovative solutions to improve efficiency, streamline processes, and enhance client service.

AI in the legal sector goes beyond simplistic automation. It involves advanced machine learning algorithms that can analyze vast amounts of legal data, identify patterns, and provide insights that were previously unattainable. For instance, predictive coding in e-discovery processes enables legal teams to sort through massive data sets quickly, identifying relevant documents with greater accuracy than traditional methods.

Several top-tier law firms have embraced AI to gain a competitive edge. By leveraging AI-driven contract analysis tools, firms are able to review and flag potential risks or anomalies within legal documents, drastically reducing the time spent on manual reviews. This not only speeds up the contract cycle but also improves the accuracy of the analysis.

AI-driven legal research tools are another game-changer. Platforms like ROSS Intelligence utilize natural language processing to understand complex legal questions and deliver precise legal research outputs. This empowers lawyers to conduct thorough and efficient research, ultimately enhancing the quality of their legal arguments.

Moreover, chatbots and virtual legal assistants are becoming commonplace in law firms, handling routine client inquiries and providing legal information. This helps free up valuable time for lawyers to focus on more strategic and revenue-generating activities, improving overall firm productivity.

We can draw parallels from historic accounting transformations. Just as AI redefined bookkeeping and auditing tasks in accounting firms, AI is revolutionizing the legal world by handling mundane tasks, thereby allowing professionals to concentrate on more intricate aspects of legal work.

However, the ethical implications of AI in legal practice cannot be ignored. Concerns about data privacy, decision-making transparency, and accountability remain crucial as AI continues to advance. Legal professionals must navigate these challenges carefully to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly and ethically.

As AI continues to evolve, it is imperative for legal practitioners to stay abreast of the latest technological developments. This not only ensures they remain competitive but also that they are equipped to harness the full potential of AI tools to benefit their clients and their practice.

Explore how technology, AI, and blockchain are reshaping the legal practice, enhancing efficiency, and transforming client service.

In recent years, the legal industry has experienced significant technological advancements that are reshaping how law is practiced. Automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain are at the forefront, driving change not only in legal operations but also in client interactions and data security.
Technology is no longer a peripheral aspect of legal work; it's central to the practice. Legal firms investing in technology are seeing benefits in efficiency, accuracy, and client service. The integration of AI tools allows for more in-depth legal research and can predict legal outcomes based on historical data. This predictive nature of AI empowers lawyers, providing them with insights that enhance decision-making processes. Keywords such as "legal tech," "AI in law," and "blockchain for law" have become prominent in discussions across top-tier law firms.
A prime example is the adoption of AI-driven contract analysis. Using machine learning, these tools can examine large volumes of contracts, identify risks, and ensure compliance with unprecedented speed. This transformation allows lawyers to focus on strategic aspects of legal practice rather than mundane, repetitive tasks. Companies like JPMorgan Chase have successfully implemented AI to streamline their contract review processes, reporting a significant reduction in review time and an increase in accuracy.
Blockchain is another groundbreaking technology sweeping through the legal sector. Offering a secure way to handle transactions and data, blockchain technology provides significant reductions in fraud risk and enhances trust in digital signatures. It is revolutionizing areas like property transactions, which are traditionally paper-heavy and time-consuming. The immutable nature of blockchain records ensures authenticity and traceability.
Legal technology firms are proliferating, offering niche solutions from document management systems to e-discovery tools. These innovations streamline operations and reduce overhead costs, leading to more competitive offerings for clients. Such digital tools also support remote work capabilities, a necessity underscored by the recent global shift towards distributed workforces.
However, adopting new technology comes with its challenges. Law firms must address cybersecurity risks, requiring robust infrastructural support to protect client data. Consistent updates and staff training remain crucial to mitigate these risks and stay adept at utilizing these technologies.
Ultimately, embracing technological tools is not just about keeping up with trends—it's about strategically positioning law firms for future growth. As legal technology continues to evolve, the lawyers who combine traditional expertise with tech-savvy knowledge will likely lead the charge in revolutionizing legal practices.

Explore the latest trends shaping Big Law, including sustainability initiatives, remote work models, technological advancements, diversity, and regulatory changes influencing large law firms today.

The legal industry, particularly Big Law, is undergoing a transformative era. Recent developments reveal significant trends shaping the future of large law firms. These trends, influenced by both global and local factors, are redefining how these firms operate, innovate, and compete in a rapidly changing legal landscape.

One of the most notable trends is the shift towards sustainability and green initiatives. Many large law firms are recognizing the importance of environmental consciousness and are integrating sustainable practices into their operations. This shift is evident in firms adopting eco-friendly office designs, reducing their carbon footprint through virtual meetings, and encouraging remote work to minimize commuting-related emissions. These initiatives are not just driven by corporate social responsibility but are also becoming a factor in attracting environmentally-conscious clients and talent.

The ongoing preference for remote work is another major trend that has gained traction in Big Law. The COVID-19 pandemic has normalized working from home, and many law firms have now embraced hybrid work models. This flexibility is not only appealing to current employees but is also a compelling factor for prospective talents. Such models have been successfully implemented by major law firms like Latham & Watkins, leading to increased productivity and improved employee satisfaction.

Technology has also become a pivotal element in shaping Big Law. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in legal processes is revolutionizing how legal research, document review, and even case predictions are conducted. From automating mundane tasks to enhancing analytical capabilities, technology is allowing Big Law firms to offer more efficient and cost-effective services to their clients.

Moreover, diversity and inclusion continue to be a critical focus for Big Law firms. The push towards a more diverse workforce is not only about equity but also about enriching the firm's culture and perspectives. Firms are implementing various programs to attract and retain diverse talent, recognizing that varied perspectives contribute positively to problem-solving and client relations.

In addition, regulatory changes are consistently shaping the legal landscape. The introduction of new policies and reforms requires firms to be agile, constantly adapting their strategies to comply and excel. Staying informed and responsive to these changes ensures firms remain competitive and can navigate the complexities of modern lawyering.

The evolving nature of Big Law is not without its challenges. Firms must balance traditional practices with innovative approaches to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive field. Those who can successfully integrate these trends will undoubtedly emerge as leaders in the industry.

Discover how significant law firms are embracing technology-driven solutions to enhance operational efficiency amidst today's digital transformation.

In the rapidly evolving world of legal services, significant law firms are increasingly adopting technology-driven solutions to enhance their operational efficiency and client service. The trend reflects a broader digital transformation eagerly embraced across industries, with law firms stepping up to align with the digital age.

A recent focus in this technological shift is the integration of advanced legal software solutions capable of handling complex datasets and automating repetitive document review tasks. At the forefront of this development, large legal firms are collaborating with tech companies to access state-of-the-art legal tech platforms capable of revolutionizing traditional workflows.

An example that stands out is Deloitte's collaboration with law firms to introduce AI-powered tools that provide predictive analytics for legal case outcomes. This tool has significantly reduced the time lawyers spend on case analysis, thereby allowing for improved cost efficiencies and a reduction in billing time for clients.

Moreover, cybersecurity has become a priority for big law firms as they navigate client confidentiality in the digital age. Implementation of robust cybersecurity measures ensures that client data is protected while maintaining integrity across digital communications channels.

This trend towards digital transformation in the legal sector is not merely a reaction to the evolving marketplace but a proactive engagement with technology to redefine service delivery models. Law firms are now exploring blockchain technology for real-time contract validation and securing legal communications, showcasing the industry's focus on trust and transparency.

Prominent legal services think tanks have highlighted that firms embracing technological change are better positioned to offer flexible working conditions and scale their operations globally. This has led to an increase in mergers and partnerships between law firms and technology providers, aiming to create a seamless synergy that drives innovation.

As technology continues to progress, what has become quite evident is that successful adoption lies not only in technology but also in the deliberate cultural shift within the organization. Big law firms are encouraging a mindset of learning and adaptability among their staff, ensuring they remain competitive in a digital-first world.

In conclusion, the legal industry’s convergence with technology holds promising prospects for the future and sets a new precedent for how legal services can be delivered efficiently. As big law firms forge new pathways with these tech-driven solutions, the industry landscape looks set to continue its evolution, driven by technological prowess and strategic foresight.

Explore the evolving trends in Big Law, including technology integration, diversity initiatives, and regulatory changes reshaping large law firms.

The world of Big Law is experiencing transformative changes, reshaping how large law firms operate and deliver services. Recent shifts in market dynamics, technological advancements, and regulatory changes are challenging traditional practices and paving the way for a more interconnected and efficient legal sector.

One of the most significant trends impacting Big Law today is the integration of advanced technology in legal practices. Legal tech solutions, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, are streamlining routine tasks such as document review, contract management, and legal research. This not only increases efficiency but also reduces operational costs, allowing firms to allocate more resources to client-centric activities.

A real-world example of technology enhancing legal operations can be seen in the case of a prominent New York-based firm that implemented an AI-driven platform to handle e-discovery processes. The result was a 30% reduction in time spent on document review, translating to substantial cost savings and improved client satisfaction.

Additionally, the push for diversification within law firms is gaining momentum. Clients and stakeholders are placing greater emphasis on diversity and inclusion, prompting Big Law firms to adopt more inclusive hiring and partnership practices. These initiatives are not just about compliance; diverse teams have proven to offer broader perspectives, enhancing problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

Moreover, regulatory changes across jurisdictions are influencing Big Law operations. For instance, changes in data privacy laws and compliance requirements necessitate firms to adapt swiftly to avoid legal repercussions. Forward-thinking firms are now investing in compliance and risk management teams to stay ahead of these changes and provide value-added services to their clients.

Furthermore, as remote and hybrid work arrangements become the norm, law firms are adapting their practices to accommodate flexible working models. This shift has also altered physical office needs, leading to a reevaluation of leasing strategies and a focus on creating collaborative virtual spaces for legal professionals.

Ultimately, the evolving landscape of Big Law is yielding opportunities for growth and innovation. Law firms that embrace technological advancements, commit to diversity, and adapt to regulatory changes are positioned to not only survive but thrive in this competitive environment.

Explore the growing influence of ESG factors in Big Law and how they are transforming legal practices to meet the demands of corporate responsibility and sustainability.

In recent years, the concept of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors has become a focal point in the corporate realm, and its influence is now extending into the legal profession, especially within Big Law firms.
ESG considerations are driving significant changes in the way law firms operate and advise their clients. Law firms are recognizing that ESG is not merely a regulatory or compliance issue but a fundamental factor that clients consider when making business decisions.
One of the trends observed is that law firms are increasingly building dedicated ESG practice groups to address the growing needs of their clients. These teams are tasked with providing strategic advice on ESG-related matters, helping clients navigate complex regulations and mitigate risks.
For instance, a recent survey indicated that a majority of top law firms have witnessed an increase in client inquiries concerning ESG matters. Clients are eager to understand how ESG impacts their business operations and what legal implications they may face.
A notable example of the influence of ESG in Big Law is seen in the handling of corporate mergers and acquisitions. Due diligence processes now prominently feature ESG assessments to ensure that potential deals align with environmental sustainability and social responsibility criteria.
Moreover, law firms themselves are adopting ESG principles within their operations. This includes initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint, promote diversity and inclusion within their ranks, and enhance corporate governance structures.
The push for ESG in legal practice also reflects a broader shift within the industry towards a more holistic approach to legal services. By integrating ESG into their frameworks, Big Law firms are positioning themselves as forward-thinking advisors capable of meeting the evolving needs of their clients.
The rise of ESG in Big Law is indicative of a changing landscape where law firms are not only advisors but also advocates for sustainable and ethical business practices.