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 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 how LegalTech is transforming law practices with technologies like AI, blockchain, and cloud computing, driving efficiency and innovation in the legal field.

Legal technology, or LegalTech, is profoundly reshaping the landscape of law practice, offering unprecedented tools to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in legal service delivery. The adoption and integration of technology in legal firms have become a focal point for many practitioners aiming to remain competitive in an evolving marketplace.

Today, more law firms are exploring advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and cloud computing to streamline their operations. AI, for instance, is being utilized for document analysis and predictive analytics, enabling legal practitioners to process large quantities of data swiftly and accurately. This innovation enhances decision-making processes, saves time, and reduces costs associated with traditional methods.

Blockchain, another revolutionary technology, is gaining traction for its transparency and security benefits. It has the potential to revolutionize the way legal contracts are managed, making it easier to verify transactions and enforce agreements without the need for intermediaries. This speed and security can significantly impact areas like intellectual property rights and real estate.

Additionally, cloud computing is reshaping how law firms store and access data. By moving operations to the cloud, firms can access information remotely, ensuring flexibility and continuity even in disrupted circumstances, such as a global pandemic. This approach also enhances collaboration, with attorneys and clients able to work seamlessly across locations.

An example of successful LegalTech integration comes from Deloitte Legal, part of the prominent Deloitte brand, which has leveraged these technologies to provide augmented legal services. Their commitment to innovation serves as a benchmark for firms seeking to adopt similar practices.

Significantly, addressing the accompanying challenges is crucial for successful technology adoption. Concerns around data security and privacy are prevalent as firms transition to more tech-driven practices. Ensuring stringent cybersecurity measures and complying with regulatory standards are paramount to safeguarding client information.

Moreover, the shift to LegalTech requires a cultural transformation within firms. Investing in employee training and development to ensure familiarity and comfort with new technologies is essential for maximizing the benefits of digital transformation.

LegalTech presents an opportunity for law firms to redefine their service offerings, improve client satisfaction, and foster a more agile legal environment. As more firms embrace these advancements, the practice of law is likely to undergo profound changes, promising a future where technology and law operate in harmonious synergy.

Explore how technological disruption is reshaping the legal sector with trends like AI, blockchain, and cloud solutions, enhancing efficiency and client satisfaction.

The legal industry, long considered traditional and resistant to change, is experiencing a wave of technological disruption that promises to redefine numerous facets of law practice. This shift is characterized by the incorporation of digital tools and platforms that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and client satisfaction.

A key trend driving this transformation is the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies. These tools are enabling law firms to automate mundane tasks such as document review and contract analysis, providing more time for lawyers to focus on strategic decision-making and client interaction. Notable AI-powered platforms are offering predictive analytics, which assists in case outcome forecasting and strategy formulation, a move towards a data-driven approach in legal proceedings.

Blockchain technology is another innovative force making waves in the industry. Known for its ability to offer secure and transparent transaction records, blockchain is being used to create smart contracts. These self-executing contracts with the terms directly written into code are changing how agreements are enforced and monitored, reducing the need for intermediaries and minimizing the risk of fraud.

Law firms are also leveraging cloud-based solutions to facilitate remote working, a trend accelerated by the recent global pandemic. This shift to the cloud not only aids in seamless information sharing and collaboration among legal teams but also provides enhanced security measures to protect sensitive client information.

Moreover, the advent of virtual courtrooms and online dispute resolution (ODR) platforms marks a significant shift in how legal services are delivered. These platforms are making justice more accessible by reducing geographical and financial barriers, allowing clients to resolve disputes without physically attending courtrooms.

An inspiring example of technology transforming the legal sector is the case of a major law firm that successfully integrated AI into its operations, resulting in a 70% reduction in the time taken for initial legal document assessments. This not only increased firm productivity but also significantly lowered costs for clients, leading to enhanced client satisfaction and retention.

As law firms increasingly recognize the value of digital transformation, investment in legal technology continues to rise. However, this technological shift brings challenges, including ensuring data privacy and overcoming resistance to change among traditionally-minded practitioners.

Ultimately, legal technology holds the potential to revolutionize the industry by improving service delivery and creating more client-centric legal practices. Legal professionals must embrace these changes to stay competitive and seize the opportunities presented by this digital era.

Explore how AI is revolutionizing legal practices, with improvements in research, contract analysis, and predictive analytics, while addressing ethical and security concerns.

The legal industry, traditionally known for its reliance on human expertise and meticulous processes, is experiencing a paradigm shift with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI). As AI continues to permeate various sectors, legal practices are beginning to leverage these technologies to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service delivery.

One of the most significant trends is the use of AI in legal research. With databases growing exponentially, traditional methods of manually sifting through legal documents are becoming obsolete. AI-powered tools can scan, analyze, and summarize vast amounts of data within seconds. Firms like EY are already deploying these tools to assist in legal research, significantly reducing the time and cost involved while ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Moreover, contract analysis and management have seen substantial improvements through AI. According to a 2023 report from ERP Global Insights, law firms that have implemented AI-driven contract analysis tools reported up to a 50% increase in efficiency. These tools are capable of extracting pertinent information, identifying risks, and suggesting amendments, thereby streamlining the entire contract lifecycle. For instance, the integration of AI solutions in contract processing at KPMG has enhanced accuracy and minimized human error, setting a benchmark for best practices.

AI-powered predictive analytics is also shaping the future of litigation. By analyzing past case data, legal outcomes, and current trends, AI can provide insights into the potential success of cases. This allows lawyers to build data-driven strategies and align client expectations with achievable results. Deloitte, through its AI-driven insights platform, has successfully adopted predictive analytics to advise clients on litigation strategies that optimize outcomes and cost-efficiency.

However, this rapid technological adoption does present challenges. Concerns around data privacy and security are paramount, as legal firms handle sensitive client information. Therefore, robust cybersecurity measures are imperative. Additionally, there is an ongoing debate on the ethical implications of AI in legal decision-making. As machines become more involved in delivering legal advice, ensuring human oversight remains essential to preserve the ethical integrity of the legal profession.

The adoption of AI in legal practices is no longer a question of 'if,' but 'when' and 'how.' As legal firms continue to embrace these technologies, balancing innovation with ethical and security considerations will be crucial. The firms leading this charge are not only reshaping their service methodologies but are also setting standards that others will inevitably follow.

Explore the current trend of mergers and acquisitions in the U.S. legal industry. Learn how big law firms are expanding their reach and enhancing their capabilities.

The legal industry in the United States is currently riding a significant wave of mergers and acquisitions as big law firms seek to expand their reach and capacity to better serve clients in an increasingly global market.

A recent case highlighting this trend is the merger between major players Law Firm A and Law Firm B, which combined their resources to create one of the largest firms in the nation. This merger allows for a more diverse array of services while tapping into each firm's distinct expertise in different practice areas. This phenomenon isn't unusual as firms continue to explore ways to enhance their competitiveness and client offerings.

The driving forces behind these mergers and acquisitions include the desire for increased geographical reach, access to broader client bases, and enhanced technological capabilities. By combining forces, these large firms can leverage economies of scale and innovation, providing more seamless and efficient services to their clients, a necessary move in an increasingly digitized world.

However, such moves also present significant challenges. Merging distinct firm cultures and aligning different operational processes can require careful management to ensure a smooth transition. Many firms are now investing in robust change management practices to tackle potential integration issues head-on and to preserve employee morale during transitions.

The U.S. legal landscape is also seeing a shift towards specialization within big law firms. Practices are increasingly creating more niche-focused teams to address complex legal needs in areas like international trade compliance and tax law updates.

For instance, in my previous experience working with major accounting firms, I observed how strategic mergers not only increased client satisfaction but also bolstered the firm's market presence across various industries. This is akin to recent moves by certain firms in the legal sector that aim to strengthen their position in new geographic regions, thereby providing more tailored and localized legal support.

As big law continues to evolve, the industries they serve will also benefit from an array of expertise and resources that these larger entities provide. It's a transformative time for the legal community as they navigate these changes, and the future looks bright with enhanced capabilities leading the charge toward better client solutions.

The integration of artificial intelligence in Big Law firms is revolutionizing operations such as contract analysis, predictive coding, and compliance management, driving efficiency and innovation.

The legal sector, especially within Big Law firms, is increasingly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative tool. Over the past three days, discussions have surged around how AI is reshaping key operations within these law firms. AI in Big Law is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality that is driving efficiency and accuracy in legal processes. One of the most visible impacts of AI in Big Law is in the arena of contract analysis and document review. AI-powered tools can sift through thousands of documents, identifying pertinent information far quicker than a human can achieve. This not only speeds up the process but significantly reduces errors and oversights, ensuring a more robust legal service. Real-time data analytics facilitated by AI is another significant trend reshaping Big Law. AI tools can analyze massive datasets to uncover patterns and trends that inform strategic decision-making. This is particularly useful in areas such as litigation strategy and risk assessment - fields that demand precise, data-driven decisions. Several top-tier law firms, similar to the shift seen in other industries, are now heavily investing in AI capabilities to enhance their competitive edge. Moreover, AI-driven predictive coding is revolutionizing e-discovery processes. This advancement allows legal teams to predictively categorize vast amounts of information, streamlining the discovery phase of client cases. Such efficiency not only cuts down on the time lawyers need to dedicate to these tasks but also significantly reduces the associated costs for clients. Ensuring compliance is another critical area where AI is making substantial inroads. AI systems can regularly monitor changes in legislation, court rulings, and compliance requirements, providing law firms with up-to-date information to maintain compliance and mitigate risks. In a world where technology integration is paramount, the success stories of Big Law firms utilizing AI are growing. For instance, some firms have leveraged AI to predict case outcomes based on precedent data, saving time and resources by strategically advising clients on the viability of pursuing litigation. With the acceleration of AI development, Big Law firms are on the precipice of a technological revolution. While challenges such as data privacy concerns and the need for increased AI literacy among legal professionals persist, the drive towards a more AI-integrated legal environment is clear. Indeed, the integration of artificial intelligence is setting the stage for a new era in law, where Big Law firms can deliver unprecedented value and efficiency in legal services. As this trend continues to unfold, the capacity for law firms to adapt and evolve will define their success in this rapidly changing landscape.

Explore the rise of alternative legal services and their impact on the big law sector. Discover how technology-driven solutions are reshaping legal services.

The legal industry is witnessing a transformative shift with the rise of alternative legal services providers (ALSPs), reshaping the traditional landscape of big law firms. This trend is driven by the demand for cost-effective, technology-driven solutions that enhance efficiency without compromising the quality of legal services.

ALSPs have emerged as key players by offering specialized services such as e-discovery, contract management, and legal process outsourcing. Leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning, these providers are able to streamline processes and deliver services at a fraction of the cost charged by traditional law firms.

For instance, Deloitte and PWC have successfully expanded their ALSP offerings, providing cutting-edge solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing legal frameworks. Their strategies highlight the shift towards a more collaborative model where traditional firms and ALSPs work together to offer holistic services to clients.

This growing trend is significantly impacting the big law sector, prompting many firms to adapt. Several established firms are now investing in technology and partnering with ALSPs to remain competitive. This partnership approach enables firms to focus on high-value advisory roles, leaving more routine tasks to specialized providers.

However, the integration of ALSPs presents challenges as well. Maintaining data security and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards are paramount concerns that require vigilant management. Law firms must ensure robust infrastructure to safeguard client information while adopting these new services.

The evolution of big law through ALSP collaboration is a compelling narrative of adaptation and innovation. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, firms that embrace these changes stand to gain a significant competitive edge. Their ability to adapt not only enhances client satisfaction but also sets a precedent for future industry standards.

Explore how big law firms are evolving remote work policies, embracing hybrid models, and enhancing employee satisfaction while addressing challenges in productivity and collaboration.

As the landscape of legal practice continues to evolve, big law firms are navigating new territories in how they manage talent acquisition, retention, and productivity. The advent of widespread remote work, propelled by the global health crisis, has forced many prestigious law firms to revamp their traditional in-office mandates, leaning into more flexible work policies.

Remote work, once considered unthinkable in the hustle and bustle of big law, is no longer just a temporary measure but a permanent fixture in the modern legal environment. Major firms like Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, and others have been instrumental in pioneering this shift. They have recognized the benefits remote work offers, not just in terms of safety, but also in enhancing employee satisfaction and work-life balance.

The adaptation of hybrid work models is one of the significant trends emerging in big law. Many firms are opting for a blend of in-office and remote workdays, providing attorneys and staff with the flexibility to manage their personal and professional lives more effectively. This adaptability has proven crucial in attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive market. The American legal industry, particularly, has shown a sharp increase in job satisfaction among associates who have been afforded more autonomy in their work arrangements.

However, challenges remain in maintaining firm culture, collaboration, and mentorship under these new conditions. To address these concerns, big law firms are investing in technology and innovative solutions. The use of virtual collaboration platforms, digital coaching, and online team-building initiatives help to bridge the gap between remote and in-office workers, ensuring that everyone remains engaged and connected.

Firms are also extending their focus beyond mere logistical adjustments. They are reevaluating performance metrics, ensuring that productivity is measured by quality and outcomes rather than time spent in the office. This shift in performance evaluation is reshaping how lawyers progress through their careers, highlighting the importance of delivering results without the constraints of traditional office hours.

In examining the practical implications of these changes, it’s important to look at some real-world success stories. Firms that have embraced a balanced approach to remote work have reported improvements in employee morale and loyalty. For example, a noted New York-based firm experienced a substantial reduction in turnover rates after implementing a policy that allows associates to work remotely two days a week.

The evolution of remote work policies in big law firms showcases a broader trend within the professional services sector, where flexibility, employee well-being, and modernized performance metrics are becoming cornerstones of operational strategy. As this trend continues to gain momentum, it's clear that the future of law practice will be significantly influenced by these dynamic, innovative approaches.