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 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.

Discover how technology is transforming legal research and practice, enhancing efficiency and client service through AI, e-discovery, and legal management tools.

The legal field has long been considered one of the most conservative professions, where traditions and established practices prevail. However, recent technological advancements are beginning to transform how legal research and practice are conducted. Law firms are now leveraging artificial intelligence, cloud-based services, and advanced software tools to streamline their processes and enhance client service outcomes.

AI-driven solutions are revolutionizing legal research by expediting the way legal professionals analyze vast amounts of data. One prominent example is the AI software developed by Ross Intelligence, a legal research platform that utilizes IBM’s Watson. This tool allows lawyers to sift through thousands of legal documents and case law in mere seconds, significantly reducing the time spent on manual research. This not only improves efficiency but also mitigates the risk of human error.

Beyond research, technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the day-to-day operations of law firms. Legal practice management software like Clio and MyCase provide a centralized platform for managing all the firm’s activities, from billing and scheduling to client communication. This efficient management of resources and time allows lawyers to focus more on advocating for their clients and engaging in value-added services.

In a notable case from my experience at Ernst & Young, a firm decided to implement a cloud-based document management system. This move eradicated the cumbersome and error-prone paper storage system and ensured the secure and quick retrieval of documents. The result was a significant reduction in operational costs and an increase in client satisfaction as they could access their case files anytime, anywhere.

The advent of e-discovery tools is another technological advancement with a profound impact on legal practice. Traditional discovery processes were often time-intensive, consuming vast resources. Now, e-discovery platforms can process and analyze countless digital documents instantaneously. For instance, Relativity, a leading e-discovery platform, empowers legal teams to swiftly identify relevant documents, enabling them to build a stronger case strategy.

However, the adoption of legal technology is not without its challenges. Concerns over data security and privacy are paramount, as law firms must safeguard sensitive client information from potential breaches. In response, many technology providers are investing heavily in state-of-the-art cybersecurity measures to ensure that their platforms are secure and compliant with existing legal standards.

In summary, technology has undeniably become an indispensable asset in the modern legal landscape. It is reshaping how legal professionals conduct research, manage their practices, and deliver services. Firms that embrace these technological advancements will likely maintain a competitive advantage in an ever-evolving industry.

Explore how AI is revolutionizing legal research by enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness for law firms.

AI technology has significantly transformed multiple sectors, ... shaping the future landscape of the legal profession.

Explore how LegalTech innovations are reshaping the legal field by providing efficiencies and enhancing client engagements. Learn about AI tools, chatbots, and cloud-based solutions used in today's legal industry.

The legal industry is undergoing a transformative shift driven by technological innovations. In recent years, LegalTech tools have become integral to law practices, providing efficiencies in managing cases, clients, and documents.

One of the most significant developments is the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in legal procedures. AI tools are now being used for document review, reducing the time lawyers spend sifting through mountains of paperwork. This technology not only saves time but also minimizes human error, ensuring a more accurate and reliable output. EY, for instance, has incorporated AI technologies in their legal services to streamline operations.

Moreover, client communication has seen a revolution with the advent of legal chatbots. These AI-powered bots handle client queries, provide basic legal advice, and assist in preliminary consultations. Law firms now leverage these tools not only for their cost-effectiveness but also for enhancing client engagement.

Another trend of note is the integration of cloud-based software in facilitating remote work. With a growing number of legal professionals opting for flexible working arrangements, cloud solutions enable easy access to legal documents from anywhere, ensuring seamless collaboration.

A remarkable case study can be drawn from Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, a prestigious law firm in the U.S., which has deployed advanced LegalTech platforms to enhance its services. The firm's investment in these tools underscores the immense value of technology in maintaining its competitive edge.

Overall, these technological advancements are driving a paradigm shift in the legal industry, showcasing how law firms can harness technology to better serve their clients and achieve greater operational efficiency.

Explore the growing influence of AI in Big Law, its operational benefits, ethical challenges, and how firms like Deloitte and EY are navigating this transformative landscape.

As technology continues to reshape industries, the legal sector is witnessing transformative changes, particularly in Big Law. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in legal practice has emerged as a trend, shaking up traditional methods of operation. While AI holds the promise of efficiency and precision, it also presents ethical and operational challenges that law firms must navigate prudently.

AI algorithms are being leveraged to automate repetitive tasks such as document review, due diligence, and even predicting legal outcomes based on past cases. This not only reduces the workload of legal professionals but also allows them to focus on more complex tasks. For instance, Deloitte has integrated AI to enhance its legal auditing services, showcasing a significant reduction in time and costs.

However, the deployment of AI in legal practice isn't without its concerns. Ethical dilemmas surface when addressing bias in AI algorithms. In some instances, AI systems have exhibited tendencies to replicate existing biases present in judicial decisions. This necessitates that law firms maintain a vigilant approach to AI deployment, ensuring systems are constantly monitored and refined.

Moreover, the operational impact extends to the structure of law firms. With AI taking over certain tasks, the need for junior associates performing traditional roles is decreasing. Firms like Ernst & Young are re-evaluating their personnel strategy, emphasizing efficient AI integration while re-skilling employees for strategic tasks.

The legal industry is witnessing a shift in client expectations with the rise in AI adoption. Clients demand faster services with utmost accuracy, and firms that leverage AI effectively are at the forefront in fulfilling these demands. This dynamic is compelling firms to adopt cutting-edge technologies, adapting to the evolving legal landscape while adhering to ethical frameworks and privacy laws.

From a regulatory perspective, law firms must navigate the complex web of data privacy laws, especially when dealing with cross-border transactions. Compliance with these regulations is crucial, ensuring that client data remains protected while leveraging AI's capabilities.

In conclusion, while AI serves as a powerful ally in Big Law, it requires careful integration with a focus on ethical considerations and operational restructuring. The future of legal practice hinges on the ability of firms to adapt, harnessing AI’s benefits while remaining committed to ethical standards. Real-life examples, such as those from leading firms like PricewaterhouseCoopers, highlight the potential of AI when combined with strategic oversight.

Exploring the increasing role of Big Law firms in ESG litigation, focusing on their strategic adaptations and proactive consulting services to navigate the complex ESG landscape.

In recent years, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations have been reshaping the corporate landscape. As stakeholders demand increased accountability, companies are under significant pressure to align their operational practices with ESG principles.
This shift has led to a rise in ESG-related litigation, presenting both challenges and opportunities for Big Law firms. The demand for ESG transparency and accountability has skyrocketed, driven by investors and activists alike. Companies failing to meet these evolving standards are being held accountable through litigation, a trend that is drawing considerable attention from major law firms. These firms are increasingly expanding their ESG capabilities to help clients navigate the complex landscape. Big Law firms are leveraging their resources and expertise to adapt to this trend. They are developing specialized ESG teams comprised of experts in areas such as environmental compliance, labor rights, and corporate governance. This multidimensional approach ensures that they can offer comprehensive advice and mitigation strategies to corporate clients facing potential ESG-related legal challenges. One example of this strategic adaptation is evident in the case of a major pharmaceutical company that faced litigation for its environmental practices. The company enlisted a top-tier law firm known for its deep expertise in environmental law, showcasing how critical such partnerships have become. The law firm not only navigated the legal intricacies but also helped the company adopt more sustainable practices, ultimately preserving its reputation. In response to the rising demand, many Big Law firms are investing in technology and data analytics to provide clients with precise insights regarding ESG compliance. This approach enables them to identify potential risks and formulate preventative strategies proactively. By integrating technology into their legal practices, these firms are enhancing their ability to manage and mitigate ESG-related risks effectively. Moreover, ESG litigation is paving the way for new business models within Big Law. Firms are increasingly offering consulting services, advising companies on integrating ESG considerations into their business strategy proactively. This not only helps in diminishing litigation risks but also positions the firms as thought leaders in the evolving legal landscape. As ESG issues continue to evolve, Big Law firms are finding themselves at the forefront of guiding and defending companies through these transformative times. Their enhanced focus on ESG litigation and strategy exemplifies the legal industry’s adaptability and its critical role in advancing corporate responsibility.

Explore the impact of Generative AI on Big Law, highlighting its revolutionary impact on legal research and client interaction, and the challenges that come alongside its adoption.

The legal landscape is on the brink of a transformative change as Generative AI becomes more ingrained in the operations of Big Law firms. The past three days have seen discussions intensify on this technological intervention, which is set to revolutionize sectors including legal research and client interaction.
Generative AI, a subset of artificial intelligence, employs machine learning techniques to generate new content from existing data. Recently, Big Law firms have witnessed the increasing integration of AI-driven tools that can perform tasks traditionally conducted by junior associates. This not only enhances efficiency but also cuts costs significantly. For instance, AI models can absorb large volumes of legal texts and case laws in seconds, providing insight and applicable precedents more swiftly than ever before.
One prominent example of AI's impact is its role in streamlining document review. Consider a case from a leading firm in New York, where Generative AI decreased the standard review time by approximately 40%, enabling lawyers to focus on more strategic aspects of case management. Similar trends are emerging nationwide, prompting firms to invest heavily in AI solutions, recognizing their potential to offer a competitive edge.
Furthermore, AI-powered chatbots are transforming client interaction, providing real-time responses to queries, thereby improving client satisfaction. These chatbots are designed to understand legal terminology and provide precise answers based on the database they learn from. For instance, during a complex merger deal, a client could quickly access information about potential regulatory issues using a firm’s AI-powered platform without needing immediate attorney intervention.
However, the adoption of Generative AI in Big Law isn't without its challenges. Concerns about data privacy and AI's ability to fully comprehend nuanced legal contexts persist. The American Bar Association is monitoring these developments closely to develop guidelines that ensure responsible AI use while maintaining ethical standards.
In conclusion, while Generative AI in Big Law presents incredible opportunities for growth and development, it comes with a responsibility to deploy it ethically and effectively. As firms navigate this technological evolution, the focus remains on achieving a balance between leveraging AI for efficiency and upholding the core values of legal practice.

Discover how Big Law firms are adapting to technological advances, diversity demands, and globalization. Learn about the latest trends shaping the legal industry.

In the fast-paced world of the legal industry, 'Big Law' firms are constantly adapting to shifts in the economy, technology, and client demands. Recently, we've seen significant transformations that are reshaping how these firms operate and deliver value to their clients.

A major trend currently impacting Big Law is the increasing integration of technology. Law firms are adopting artificial intelligence tools to streamline research and automate routine tasks. This adoption is aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing costs, allowing attorneys to focus on more complex legal work. Firms like Deloitte Legal and EY Law are leading the charge in integrating tech solutions into their legal services offerings.

Diversity and inclusion have also become crucial areas of focus for Big Law firms. In recent years, client demands for diverse legal teams have grown. Firms are investing in programs to promote diversity within their ranks, not just as a compliance requirement but as a strategic advantage in servicing a broader range of clients effectively.

Another significant shift is the globalization of legal services. Many Big Law firms are opening offices in emerging markets to meet global client needs. This move is driven by clients seeking legal services that are seamless and integrated across borders, ensuring consistent legal support wherever they operate.

Talent acquisition and retention remain a challenge. With the 'Great Resignation' affecting many industries, Big Law is no exception. Firms are enhancing their employee value propositions by offering flexible work arrangements and competitive compensation packages. This is increasingly necessary to attract and retain top talent in a competitive legal landscape.

Lastly, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues are climbing up the agenda for law firms. Clients are calling for legal advice that considers these dimensions as they play a critical role in business decision-making today.

These trends indicate that the future of Big Law will be marked by greater adaptability and responsiveness to both market forces and societal expectations. Firms that are quick to embrace these changes are likely to stay ahead of the curve and continue to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape.