/blog/In-houseEventsFuture of LawBlogs-NavigationStudents urn:uuid:a9ee8799-b1f9-4a11-a7c5-bf36634ee524/blog/future-of-law/staying-current-with-legal-changes-how-public-sector-lawyers-use-lexisFuture of LawThis blog explores how ����Ӱ�� empowers legal teams to stay ahead of the curve, featuring case studies from Wolverhampton City Council, Walsall Council, and Southampton City Council.Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:21:03 Z<p>Staying current with legal changes is a critical challenge for public sector lawyers. In a recent survey, we asked public sector lawyers about the top challenges they are up against in the next 1-3 years. The top response was staying up to date with changes to the law, with 60% of public sector lawyers listing this as a significant challenge, <a href="/insights/innovating-the-client-experience/index.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">a new survey found</a>.</p><p>With new precedents, statutes, and regulations emerging frequently, legal teams must remain vigilant to provide accurate and timely advice. ����Ӱ��, a comprehensive legal research and guidance platform, has become an indispensable tool for public sector lawyers, enabling them to navigate these complexities effectively. This blog explores how ����Ӱ�� empowers legal teams to stay ahead of the curve, featuring case studies from Wolverhampton City Council, Walsall Council, and Southampton City Council.</p><h4><strong>Wolverhampton City Council: Reducing environmental impact and enhancing efficiency</strong></h4><p>Wolverhampton City Council's Legal Services team faced the dual challenge of reducing their environmental impact and maintaining access to comprehensive legal information. By transitioning from paper-based resources to ����Ӱ�� solutions like <a href="/products/lexis-plus-legal-research.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+®</a>, the team significantly reduced their reliance on paper while ensuring access to up-to-date legal content. This shift not only supported their environmental goals but also enhanced business efficiency by allowing multiple team members to access resources simultaneously. The integration of <a href="/product href="/"></a href="/product></p>urn:uuid:89ad3084-dcea-4c3a-adf8-1f0475275530/blog/future-of-law/top-challenges-facing-public-sector-lawyers-in-2025Future of LawTop challenges facing public sector lawyers in 2025, from technology and legal changes to talent management.Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:15:35 Z<p>����Ӱ�� surveyed <a href="/insights/innovating-the-client-experience/index.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">800+ lawyers across the legal sector</a> to explore the key challenges they're up against and how their business strategy and day-to-day processes are being reshaped by new technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Public sector lawyers made up a relatively small group, 5%, yet their insights showed some interesting. In this blog, we look at the challenges public sector lawyers are up against in 2025, the trends making the biggest waves, and how public sector teams are&nbsp;<span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">navigating the complexities of the modern legal environment.</span></p><h4><strong>Keeping up to date with changes in the law</strong></h4><p>A whopping 60% of public sector lawyers identified keeping up to date with changes in the law as a significant challenge. The current legal environment is particularly challenging, with new precedents, statutes, and regulations emerging frequently. Public sector lawyers must remain vigilant by attending&nbsp;<span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">regular professional development activities, such as seminars and workshops. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"><a href="/public-sector-law" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Legal research and legal guidance databases</a> can provide valuable insights into emerging trends and changes in the law.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"><a href="https://www.lexisnexis.co href="/"></a href="https://www.lexisnexis.co></span></p>urn:uuid:a3de140d-37c6-46f4-ba40-40b5462a2458/blog/future-of-law/the-future-of-the-bar-insights-from-anna-yardeFuture of LawCareer advice, emotional intelligence and challenges facing the bar. An interview with Anna Yarde, a Family Law barrister from Harcourt Chambers.Thu, 10 Apr 2025 10:40:28 Z<p>In a recent conversation with Anna Yarde, a barrister at Hardcourt Chambers specialising in family law, we explored various themes surrounding the future of the bar, the challenges faced by barristers, and the evolving landscape of the legal profession. Anna shared her personal journey, pivotal moments, and thoughts on diversity, resilience, and the impact of AI on the profession. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Here, we summarise the main findings from the discussion.</p><h4><strong>Personal journey and pivotal moments</strong></h4><p>Anna Yarde's journey to becoming a barrister was marked by determination and resilience. Reflecting on her early career, Anna shared a significant moment from her university days when her director of studies advised her to consider alternative paths due to the challenges of entering the bar directly from university. Anna recalled, "I don't have a plan B and I don't want a plan B... I'm all in this is what I'm doing and I'm going to have to just keep going." This unwavering commitment and the drive to overcome obstacles were crucial in shaping her career.</p><div style="width: 656px; height: 369px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" contenteditable="false" class="-sf-relative -align-center" data-sf-ec-immutable=""><div data-sf-disable-link-event=""><iframe title="The Future of the Bar with Anna Yarde" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PRBsZnROjFE" height="369" width="656" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-presentation allow-popups"></iframe></div></div><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Anna emphasised the importance of resilience and commitment in the profession, stating, "Resilience is a</p>urn:uuid:ec50b9d0-565f-4799-8167-8350ff3860ce/blog/future-of-law/women-at-the-bar-celebrating-progress-contemplating-challengesFuture of LawInternational Women's Day, celebrated on the 8th of March, serves as a reminder of the strides made towards gender equality and the work still to be done. In a recent discussion, I interviewed Anna Yarde, a self-employed barrister, who shared her experiences and observations. Increasing numbers, stagnant representationAnna began by addressing the statistics released by the Bar Standards Board (BSB), which indicate a higher number of self-identified women entering the bar in recent years. According to the BSB, the overall percentage of women at the Bar rose by 0.6% from December 2023 to December 2024, reaching 41.2%. This marks a 5.3% increase since 2015. The proportion of female KCs also increased by 0.8 percentage points, from 20.3% in 2023 to 21.1% in 2024, representing an 8.1 percentage point rise over the past decade. While this growth is positive, Ana emphasised the importance of distinguishing between those called to the bar and those entering self-employed practice. She noted, "It's really important to distinguish first of all between those who are called to the bar and those who enter into self-employed practice."Diverse practice areas and role modelsThe discussion highlighted the disparity in female representation across different practice areas. Ana pointed out that family law is the only field where women outnumber men, with over 60% of family barristers being female.In contrast, commercial law sees only about 25% female representation. Ana stressed the signThu, 10 Apr 2025 10:04:13 Z<p>International Women's Day, celebrated on the 8th of March, serves as a reminder of the strides made towards gender equality and the work still to be done. In a recent discussion, I interviewed Anna Yarde, a self-employed barrister, who shared her experiences and observations.</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Increasing numbers, stagnant representation</strong></h4><p>Anna began by addressing the statistics released by the Bar Standards Board (BSB), which indicate a higher number of self-identified women entering the bar in recent years. </p><p>According to the BSB, the overall percentage of women at the Bar rose by 0.6% from December 2023 to December 2024, reaching 41.2%. This marks a 5.3% increase since 2015. The proportion of female KCs also increased by 0.8 percentage points, from 20.3% in 2023 to 21.1% in 2024, representing an 8.1 percentage point rise over the past decade. </p><p>While this growth is positive, Ana emphasised the importance of distinguishing between those called to the bar and those entering self-employed practice. She noted, "It's really important to distinguish first of all between those who are called to the bar and those who enter into self-employed practice."</p><h4><strong>Diverse practice areas and role models</strong></h4><p>The discussion highlighted the disparity in female representation across different practice areas. Ana pointed out that family law is the only field where women outnumber men, with over 60% of family barristers being female.</p><p>In contrast, commercial law sees only about 25% female representation. Ana stressed the sign</p>urn:uuid:ec0cc82e-561b-4180-9e01-30a28b2198fb/blog/future-of-law/how-technology-alsps-non-legal-roles-are-reshaping-the-legal-industryFuture of LawDiscover how technology, ALSPs, and non-legal roles are redefining law firms, and what your firm must do to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:52:45 Zurn:uuid:8ad91cdd-ee80-4484-bc3e-09b5b64527eb/blog/future-of-law/navigating-the-top-challenges-facing-legal-professionals-in-2025Future of LawThis blog explores the challenges facing legal professionals in the next 12 months, including rising costs, legal changes, and keeping up with new technology.Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:30:47 Z<p>The legal industry is entering an era of transformation. Rising costs, evolving regulations, and technological change are pushing legal professionals to rethink how they work.<a data-sf-ec-immutable="" href="/insights/innovating-the-client-experience/index.html"> According to our latest survey</a> of 800+ UK lawyers, 45% of respondents cite increasing costs as their top concern, while 40% struggle to keep up with legal changes and new technology. Staying current on legal precedent and advancements in legal technology is becoming critical.</p><p>Breaking the data down further, public sector (60%) and academic professionals (65%) report the greatest difficulty in keeping up with regulatory updates, while 52% of large law firms say they are challenged by the pace of technological advancement. Cost concerns are nearly universal, affecting law firms of all sizes. Many are also reviewing long-standing clauses like the force majeure clause in contracts to plan for uncertainty.</p><p>Relying on legal expertise won’t cut it. Success in the coming years will also depend on a firm’s ability to control costs, stay ahead of evolving regulations, and embrace new technology like law firm software and <a data-sf-ec-immutable="" href="/products/lexis-plus-legal-research.html">legal research </a>platforms.<strong> </strong></p><p>So, how can legal professionals turn these challenges into opportunities? This blog explores the key issues and what firms can do to stay ahead.</p><h4><strong>Rising costs - the financial burden on all legal segments</strong></h4><p>From rising salaries to increased office expenses, firms across all sectors are feeling the financial strain, with almost half of legal professions concerned about increasing costs. The burden is felt most acutely in academic institutions (53%), the public sector (51%), and large law firms (49%.) Smaller firms, including solo practitioners, are also grappling with this issue, with 46% citing cost concerns. For many, investing in law firm management software has become essential to control expenses while maintaining productivity.</p><p>The reasons behind this financial strain are clear. Salaries for legal professionals continue to rise as firms compete for top talent. The rising cost of talent is also a major factor, with law firms finding it increasingly difficult to attract </p>urn:uuid:cfc44a95-9509-40f0-8491-a7144886afe0/blog/in-house/innovation-inside-the-in-house-legal-departmentIn-houseThis blog explores key areas where in-house legal leaders can drive innovation to enhance efficiency and align with business goals.Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:13:06 Z<p>As businesses strive to remain competitive, the demand for agile, tech-savvy legal departments is increasing. However, many in-house lawyers feel their organisations are not investing enough in innovation. A <a data-sf-ec-immutable="" target="_blank" href="/research-and-reports/in-house-innovation-report.html">January 2025 ����Ӱ�� survey</a> revealed that only 13% of in-house lawyers believe their legal department is fast or very fast at implementing new technology, particularly AI. This blog explores key areas where in-house legal leaders can drive innovation to enhance efficiency and align with business goals.</p><h4><strong>1. Embracing technology for efficiency</strong></h4><p>One of the most significant areas for innovation in legal departments is the adoption of technology to streamline processes. Many legal teams are burdened with outdated systems that slow down their ability to respond to business needs. According to the ����Ӱ�� survey, 82% of in-house lawyers feel their department is adequate, slow, or very slow at implementing new technology.</p><p>A Group General Counsel at an asset-based lender in Bristol highlights the importance of using technology to handle labour-intensive but low-value tasks. "Innovating your workflow can do a significant amount of the heavy lifting, allowing lawyers to focus on the strategy and advice where it is really needed," she says. By leveraging AI and other technologies, legal departments can automate routine tasks such as document reviews and data subject access requests, freeing up time for more strategic work.</p><p><a data-sf-ec-immutable="" target="_blank" href="/research-and-reports/in-house-innovation-report.html"></a></p><h4><strong>2. Responding to change with agility</strong></h4><p>In a rapidly changing business landscape, the ability to adapt quickly is crucial. However, two-thirds (65%) of in-house legal professionals report that their department is adequate, slow, or very slow at responding to change. This sluggishness can hinder a company's ability to seize new opportunities and mitigate risks.</p><p>Nick West,</p>urn:uuid:66527e91-d72a-4353-8161-77280d3d0d81/blog/in-house/innovating-the-in-house-legal-experience-key-statistics-insightsIn-houseInnovation is sweeping across the corporate world, and in-house legal teams are making seismic shifts to drive change. But is this enough to stay competitive?Fri, 04 Apr 2025 09:25:34 Z<div><p><strong>Corporates take pride in their legal departments' innovative prowess. But in-house lawyers want more.&nbsp;</strong><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"><strong>We look at how legal departments can transform their workflow through innovation.</strong></span></p><p><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"><strong></strong></span><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">As corporates strive to meet business goals with agility and efficiency, the role of legal teams is expanding beyond traditional boundaries. This blog delves into the key statistics and insights from <a data-sf-ec-immutable="" target="_blank" href="/research-and-reports/in-house-innovation-report.html">a recent survey of over 800 lawyers</a>, highlighting the areas most in need of innovation and the transformative potential of technology in legal workflows.</span></p></div><h4><strong>Areas in need of innovation</strong></h4><p>In-house lawyers are calling for a significant shift towards embracing technology to enhance their workflows. A striking finding from the survey is that only 13% of i</p>urn:uuid:be5fe3df-f113-4a66-87d6-0731f6e1cb82/blog/future-of-law/impatience-brews-amongst-lawyers-for-faster-tech-implementationFuture of LawHalf of lawyers think their organisations are moving to slow when adopting technology. In fact, some might leave because of it.Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:31:29 Z<p>Legal leaders have moved mountains to get AI technology active and adopted by their teams, and with great success. But as AI adoption passing a crucial tipping point, the demand for more by lawyers is escalating at pace. To remain competitive, law firms and in-house teams alike will have to continue push to drive change. This blog explores the urgency for AI adoption, the factors that could encourage its integration, and the potential consequences if organiations fail to invest in AI.</p><h4><strong>The slow pace of technology implementation</strong></h4><p>Despite implementing AI at breakneck speed, many law firms and in-house team have been labelled "too slow" to implement new technology,&nbsp;<a data-sf-ec-immutable="" target="_blank" href="/research-and-reports/h1-2025-generative-ai-report.html">according to a ����Ӱ�� survey</a>.&nbsp;It revealed half (49%) of all lawyers believe their firm or legal team is slow or very slow at implementing new technology. This hesitation can lead to missed opportunities and a competitive disadvantage, the report found.</p><p>However, it wouldn't be fear to conclude that law firms and legal departments are moving slowly. The data more accurately incapsulates lawyers' impatience for technology and innovation, as well as the fear of the risks that come with not investing.</p><p>Nick West, Chief Strategy Officer at Mishcon de Reya, highlights the potential of AI to automate repetitive tasks, allowing lawyers to focus on higher-value work: "Pointing AI to certain processes or workflows can help lawyers allocate time to the </p>urn:uuid:6000a04f-6bed-437e-90cd-5f7028739896/blog/future-of-law/ai-adoption-amongst-lawyers-passes-tipping-pointFuture of LawAI adoption statistics across the UK legal sector. How do you and your team compare? Read the blog to find out.Thu, 03 Apr 2025 12:01:00 Z<p>The legal profession, traditionally known for its cautious approach to new technologies, is experiencing a significant shift with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). A recent survey conducted in February 2025 reveals that AI adoption among lawyers has seen a remarkable increase, with 46% of legal professionals using the technology for work and a further 38% planning to use it in the near future. This marks a substantial rise from previous years, where only 11% of lawyers were using AI in July 2023.</p><p>The adoption of generative AI in the legal sector varies significantly across different segments, reflecting the diverse needs and capabilities of various legal practices. The survey data provides a detailed look at how different segments are embracing AI technology, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that remain. This blog will look at AI adoption rates across the different areas of the legal industry.</p><h4><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"><strong>Small law firms and solo practitioners</strong></span></h4><div><p>Small law firms, including solo practitioners, have shown a moderate level of AI adoption, with 37% of respondents indicating they are currently using generative AI tools. Interestingly, a higher percentage (42%) plan to adopt AI in the future, suggesting a growing recognition of its potential benefits. However, 18% of small law practitioners still express no intention to adopt AI, indicating some resistance or resource constraints in this segment.</p></div><div><br></div><h4><strong>Medium-sized law firms</strong></h4><div><p>Medium-sized law firms demonstrate a slightly higher adoption rate, with 42% of lawyers already using AI tools. This segment also shows a strong inclination towards future adoption, with 43% planning to integrate AI into their practices. The relatively low percentage (13%) of those with no plans to adopt AI suggests that medium-sized firms are increasingly aware of the competitive advantages AI can offer.</p></div><div><br></div><h4><strong>Large law firms</strong></h4><div><p><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">Large law firms lead the way in AI adoption, with 50% of respondents already utilising generative AI tools. This high adoption rate reflects the resources and strategic focus that large firms can dedicate to </span></p></div>urn:uuid:671f887c-2f46-4c46-ac40-c28aaea896fb/blog/future-of-law/exploring-new-career-paths-for-lawyers-in-the-age-of-technologyFuture of LawA range of alternative career paths are now on offer as a result of advances in new technology. Here's some of the most exciting.Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:09:27 Z<div><p><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">Making Partner used to be the end goal for most in the legal profession, yet new advances in technology have opened the door up to a whole new range of exciting new career possibilities. This blog explores these alternative career paths, highlighting how technology is reshaping the legal landscape and creating opportunities for legal professionals to diversify their careers.</span><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></span><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">The legal industry has long been known for its adherence to tradition and resistance to change. However, the advent of technology is challenging this status quo, offering lawyers new avenues to explore beyond conventional legal practice. From artificial intelligence (AI) to blockchain, technological innovations are not only enhancing the efficiency of legal services but also opening up alternative career paths for lawyers. This blog delves into these emerging opportunities, providing insights into how lawyers can leverage technology to diversify their careers and stay ahead in a competitive market.</span><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></span></p><h4><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></span><strong style="background-color: initial; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">Legal technology specialists</strong></h4></div><div><p>One of the most prominent alternative career paths for lawyers is becoming a legal technology specialist. As law firms and legal departments increasingly adopt advanced technologies, there is a growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between law and technology.<strong style="background-color: initial; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></strong></p><p><strong style="background-color: initial; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; style=""></strong style="background-color: initial; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; ></p></div>urn:uuid:c21aeaf2-1446-496f-b545-7ac72d501e0a/blog/future-of-law/the-financial-downside-of-fewer-aspiring-law-firm-partnersFuture of LawWill prospective partners at your law firm mean higher profits for existing partners, or will it shrivel your firm's growth plans? We investigate.Wed, 02 Apr 2025 13:37:06 Zurn:uuid:16b04bc1-e3d5-407e-bdbb-699d1ae3fb1f/blog/future-of-law/pathways-to-practice-be-curiousFuture of LawAdam Basinski associate solicitor at DLA Piper, shares his career path from a law student with a passion for problem-solving, to navigating challenges and embracing AI.Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:00:00 Z<p>We spoke with Adam Basinski, corporate solicitor at DLA Piper, as part of a spotlight series* featuring former ����Ӱ�� student campus ambassadors, to hear about his route into legal practice. Read on to dive into Adam's advice for law students, from tips on time management to how networking can open doors.</p><h4><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">Why did you decide to pursue a career in law as a solicitor?</span></h4><p><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></span><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">My passion for law was sparked by an interest in problem-solving and a desire to be part of transformative decision-making processes. Growing up, I admired the pivotal role lawyers play in shaping outcomes, both for individuals and businesses.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></span><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">The University of Birmingham had this beautiful way of using their lectures and seminars to encourage students to think about things from a different perspective, to apply a different lens to a situation. I was drawn to problems where you needed to employ a different approach and think outside the box to come up with a solution.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="background-color: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit"></span><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; text-transform: inherit; word-spacing: normal; caret-color: auto; white-space: inherit">Law is a very fast-paced, changing environment and being alive to those changes, posing your argument as more valid, is incredibly interesting to me. Becoming a solicitor allowed me to blend my analytical skills with a dynamic career where no two days are the same, and I could work on impactful, high-stakes projects.</span></p><h4><span ></span ></h4>urn:uuid:f2446773-6c68-4ee5-8b54-b59d5958ab03/blog/in-house/senior-counsel-commercial-law-update-march-2025In-houseMarch's Senior Counsel session featured Radius Law’s Iain Larkins and Sandra Martins as they provided a detailed look into the prodigious updates to notable commercial law developments and their wider implications for the world of business. They focused on environmental, social and governance (ESG), changes to consumer law, competition law, data protection developments, and changes to employment law.Mon, 31 Mar 2025 11:57:39 Z<p>March's Senior Counsel session featured Radius Law’s Iain Larkins and Sandra Martins as they provided a detailed look into the prodigious updates to notable commercial law developments and their wider implications for the world of business. They focused on environmental, social and governance (ESG), changes to consumer law, competition law, data protection developments, and changes to employment law.<br></p><h3><strong>Commercial law updates: Key cases and legislation</strong></h3><p>The main case that Iain highlighted was that of <em>Topalsson GmbH v Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited</em> [2024] EWCA Civ 1330​, which involved an appeal by Topalsson against a High Court decision concerning the application of liability caps in a terminated contract. The liability cap as a clause in the contractual agreement between the two parties read: ‘<em>the total liability of either Party to the other under this Agreement shall be limited in aggregate for all claims no matter how arising to the amount of €5m’</em>. In the course of the initial proceedings, the High Court found that Rolls Royce had a valid claim of €8m against Topalsson and that Topalsson had a valid counter claim of €800,000 in unpaid charges. The subsequent appeal then arose and revolved around the question of how much Topalsson should pay Rolls Royce in damages, with both the High Court and the Court of Appeal arriving at different figures. The High Court’s approach concluded that Rolls Royce was to be awarded the full €5m by applying Topalsson’s €800k counterclaim at the first instance, thereby reducing the €8m to €7.2m and then applying the €5m liability cap to the remaining €7.2m. The Court of Appeal disagreed with this approach, instead opting to initially apply the €5m liability cap to the original €8m claim, thus creating a €5m sub-total. Topalsson’s €800k counterclaim was then to be deducted from this sub-total, resulting in a final sum of €4.2m to be awarded to Rolls Royce. The Court of Appeal’s decision serves as an important reminder for practitioners to be precise and </p>urn:uuid:39e16b4b-7186-4aa9-89e4-984140a54c69/blog/future-of-law/competitive-aiai-help-firms-stay-competing-in-the-legal-industry-with-aiFuture of LawAI is more than adoption - it's continuous action. Here's how law firms can gain a competitive edge through AI innovation.Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:19:20 Z<p>While many firms have begun integrating AI into their operations, the real challenge lies in moving beyond initial adoption to achieve meaningful, sustained innovation. This blog explores how law firms can effectively compete in the legal industry by leveraging AI, drawing insights from the successful implementation at Pinsent Masons.</p><h4 id="the-competitive-advantage-action-over-adoption"><strong>The competitive advantage: Action over adoption</strong></h4><p>The legal industry is at a pivotal moment where the adoption of AI can significantly influence a firm's competitive standing. Despite the enthusiasm for AI, our survey reveals that only 15% of lawyers believe their firm is quick to implement new technology, with nearly half perceiving their firm as slow. This sluggish pace is a critical risk, as firms that fail to act decisively on AI adoption may find themselves losing both clients and talent.</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/h1-2025-generative-ai-report.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Mark Smith, Director of Strategic Markets at ����Ӱ��</a>, highlights the stakes: "We are already seeing firms tell us that they are both winning and losing work on the basis of their use of AI in their client-facing work."</p><p><a href="/research-and-reports/h1-2025-generative-ai-report.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">I want to read the 2025 AI report</a></p><h4 id="overcoming-barriers-to-ai-adoption"><strong>Overcoming barriers to AI adoption</strong></h4><p>To fully harness AI's potential, law firms must address several barriers. Two-thirds of lawyers indicated that more training would encourage greater AI use, while 50% cited the need for better communication around use guidelines. Tony Randle from Shoosmiths emphasises the importance of comprehensive training and demonstrat</p>urn:uuid:96078960-243e-4e73-9263-0ceffe6d8ee5/blog/future-of-law/tech-trends-all-tmt-lawyers-need-to-know-in-2025Future of LawTechnology, media and telecommunications trends lawyers need to know in 2025.Mon, 31 Mar 2025 08:46:14 Z<p></p><p>As the technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) sectors continue to evolve at a rapid pace, staying informed about emerging trends is crucial for legal professionals in these fields. The year 2025 promises to bring transformative changes driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and regulatory frameworks. This blog explores the key tech trends that TMT lawyers should be aware of to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.</p><h4><strong>AI adoption and governance</strong></h4><p>Artificial intelligence is becoming an integral part of business operations, with organisations increasingly adopting AI tools to enhance efficiency and innovation. However, this rapid adoption brings challenges related to governance and compliance. TMT lawyers must be prepared to advise on AI governance frameworks, ensuring that AI systems are used responsibly and in compliance with evolving regulations.</p><h4><strong>Cybersecurity</strong></h4><p>With the rise of sophisticated cyber threats, cybersecurity remains a top priority for businesses. The implementation of regulations such as the <a href="/legal/guidance/the-eu-nis-2-directive-timeline?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=BL_LN_retargeting_Search_RDSA|Legal_DSA&amp;utm_content=103437&amp;utm_term=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw-qi_BhBxEiwAkxvbkK3GAMXZR9MyYWmcrZhT4Xnmt-InMBod7zQRZhm6Zk3qhEkbjIVqERoCbJUQAvD_BwE" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">EU's NIS2 Directive</a> highlights the need for robust cyberse</p>urn:uuid:954cd574-970c-4e94-9cb9-e828fde4e386/blog/in-house/understanding-the-ethnicity-pay-gap-a-critical-analysis-for-in-house-legal-leadersIn-houseInsights for in-house lawyers on how to better understand and address the ethnicity pay gap inside corporates.Mon, 31 Mar 2025 08:23:19 Z<p><strong></strong>In recent years, the focus on diversity and inclusion within the corporate sector has intensified, with particular attention on the ethnicity pay gap. The "<a href="/research-and-reports/ethnicity-pay-gap-reporting.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Ethnicity Pay Gap Trend Report 2023</a>" - a ����Ӱ�� Market Standards Trend Report - provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of ethnicity pay gap reporting among FTSE 350 companies. This blog aims to summarise the key findings of the report, offering insights for in-house legal leaders at corporates to better understand and address this pressing issue.</p><h4><strong>The current landscape of ethnicity pay gap reporting</strong></h4><p>The report highlights that despite the absence of a mandatory requirement, some FTSE 350 companies have voluntarily disclosed their ethnicity pay gap data. "48 out of 243 companies (20%) with a financial year end between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023 made reference to ‘ethnicity pay gap’ in their annual reports." However, only 35 companies (14%) have made actual disclosures. This indicates a growing awareness and willingness among companies to address the issue, albeit at a slow pace.</p><p>The technology sector leads the way, with 44% of companies reporting their ethnicity pay gap, followed closely by the banking and finance sector at 40%. In contrast, sectors such as investment, mining, construction, and chemicals have shown no reports, highlighting a disparity in engagement across industries.</p><h4><strong>Challenges and causes of the ethnicity pay gap</strong></h4><p>The report identifies several challenges and causes contributing to the ethnicity pay gap. These include "the tendency for organisations and individuals to recruit in their own image," "underemployment</p>urn:uuid:ba720c4f-83ac-4c1a-aadf-38d8dfdf9e31/blog/in-house/the-evolution-of-esg-investment-trends-changes-the-role-of-aiIn-houseHas ESG investment stalled? No, but people talk less about it. Here's what's been happening in ESG investment.Fri, 28 Mar 2025 16:49:14 Z<p id="theevolutionofesginvestmenttrendschangesandtheroleofai">Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing has become a pivotal aspect of the financial landscape, influencing both corporate strategies and investor decisions. This blog explores the current state of ESG investment, recent changes in the field, and the intriguing relationship between ESG and Artificial Intelligence (AI).</p><h4 id="isesginvestmentincreasingdecreasingorstagnant"><strong>Is ESG investment increasing, decreasing, or stagnant?</strong></h4><p><strong><em>Current Trends in ESG Investment</em></strong></p><p>ESG investment has seen a significant rise over the past few years. According to a survey by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/sustainable-investing-on-the-rise" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Morgan Stanley,</a>&nbsp;more than half of individual investors plan to increase their allocations to sustainable investments in the next year. This growing interest is driven by factors such as new climate science findings and the financial performance of sustainable investments.</p><p><strong><em>Investor sentiment</em></strong></p><p>A majority of investors believe that strong ESG practices can lead to higher returns. The same survey found nearly 80% of individual investors globally express a desire to invest in companies or funds that aim to achieve market-rate financial returns while also considering positive social and/or environmental impact. This sentiment underscores the increasing importance of ESG criteria in investment decisions.</p><p><a href="/legal/guidance/esg-new-starter-guide" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Read our ESG new starter guide</a></p><h4 id="whathaschangedinrecentyears"><strong>What has changed in recent years?</strong></h4><p><strong><em>Shift in corporate communication</em></strong></p><p>A series of “greenwashing” scandals alongside an overwhelming wave of ESG-focused marketing campaigns have contributed to less chatter in the corporate investment space. However, companies continue to prioritise sustainability, albeit with less public fanfare. A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/companies-havent-abandoned-sustainability-theyre-just-talking-about-it-less-acd0e85f" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Wall Street Journa</a>l analysis found that mentions of "ESG" and "sustainability" in corporate earnings calls have decreased, yet these terms remain prevalent in financial reports and disclosures. This phenome</p>urn:uuid:0fce2b9d-bdf3-4921-9cd7-543fd4781386/blog/future-of-law/legal-ai-won-t-replace-you-poor-judgement-willFuture of LawWill AI replace lawyers? ����Ӱ��' Head of Brand, Matthew Leopold, argues AI is a powerful tool lawyers should utilise, not fear.Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:14:07 Z<p>Richard Susskind is a wise and well-respected thought leader. He writes intelligently and informatively about the legal market and technology. Today, he penned an article for The Times entitled: “<a href="https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/artificial-intelligence-could-replace-traditional-lawyers-by-2035-xwz2j0t2k" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Artificial Intelligence could replace traditional lawyers by 2035</a>”. That’s a seductive headline if ever I have heard one.&nbsp; </p><p>It’s bold. It’s dramatic. And, in my view, it’s mostly nonsense.<br></p><h4><strong>The law doesn’t run</strong></h4><p>If you’ve ever worked with a lawyer, you’ll know that diligence and accuracy is key. Lawyers are trained to think first, think second and think third. Then, thinking done, they’ll do ‘just one more check’ before sharing guidance or direction. Speed is not a defining feature.</p><p>Now, legal AI is always seriously impressive. It is getting better by the day. Tools like <a href="/lexis-plus/lexis-plus-ai.html" target="_blank" data-sf-ec-immutable="">Lexis+ AI</a> can empower legal research, summarise cases and carry out fairly comprehensive drafting. The value AI adds is no longer hypothetical. Legal AI is being trialled widely and adopted at scale. Over the next few years, the pressure for all lawyers and law firms to adopt this technology will only grow. Here, Susskind and I are perfectly aligned.</p><p>But the bottleneck isn’t technology. It’s behaviour.</p><p>Some lawyers will race ahead. They’ll embrace AI with both hands and quietly start outperforming their peers. Others will move at a more comfortable shuffle. A few will cling to the inkwell until the lights go out. </p><p>The pace won’t be even. The adoption won’t be smooth. Will AI be a full replacement? Not in this decade.<br></p><h4><strong>No one-size-fits-all</strong></h4><p>There’s another myth to deal with: that once AI is “good enough”, we’ll all use the same system. One tool to rule them all. Outputs optimised, results standardised, decisions accelerated.</p><p>That’s not how legal work operates. Law thrives on tension. On challenge. On friction between views. Great lawyers don’t nod along – they push back. They test. They rewrite. In many ways working with AI is like holding a conversation in the mirror. It reflects. But it doesn</p>urn:uuid:bbec012c-a842-48d9-abea-106dd43bc33b/blog/future-of-law/embracing-ai-transforming-legal-practices-in-caribbean-law-firmsFuture of LawThe Caribbean legal landscape is on the brink of a technological revolution, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing a key role in transforming traditional practices. The recent guidance from the Caribbean Court of Justice, as outlined in Practice Direction No. 1 of 2025, stresses how important it is to bring AI tools into the mix for legal work. This isn't just about making things faster and more efficient; it's also about making sure AI is used in a smart and ethical way.Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:25:25 Z<div><p>The Caribbean legal landscape is on the brink of a technological revolution, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing a key role in transforming traditional practices. The recent guidance from the&nbsp;<a data-sf-ec-immutable="" target="_blank" href="https://ccj.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PRACTICE-DIRECTION-NO.-1-OF-2025-THE-USE-OF-GENERATIVE-ARTIFICIAL-INTELLIGENCE-TOOLS.pdf">Caribbean Court of Justice, as outlined in Practice Direction No. 1 of 2025</a>, stresses how important it is to bring AI tools into the mix for legal work. This isn't just about making things faster and more efficient; it's also about making sure AI is used in a smart and ethical way.</p></div><div><p><strong>Streamlining Legal Research and Document Review</strong><strong></strong></p></div><div><p>One of the most significant advantages of AI in law firms is its ability to streamline legal research and document review. AI tools can sift through huge amounts of legal data, case laws, and precedents, giving attorneys detailed insights much faster than doing it manually. This not only speeds up the research process but also makes sure attorneys have the most relevant and up-to-date information, which boosts the quality of their legal advice and representation.</p></div><div><p><strong>Ensuring Compliance and Ethical Use</strong><strong></strong></p></div><div><p>The guidance from the Caribbean Court of Justice emphasiz</p></div>urn:uuid:b0f4422e-b349-4002-9b17-a23a84e57b71/blog/future-of-law/why-should-caribbean-attorneys-invest-in-technologyFuture of LawIn an age of technological advancement, the legal sector, once seen as resistant to change, is now embracing innovation to improve efficiency and stay competitive. Caribbean attorneys, as indicated by research from ����Ӱ��, are recognizing the importance of investing in technology to streamline processes, access legal resources, enhance client communication, adapt to remote work trends, and gain a competitive edge. By leveraging technology, attorneys can boost productivity, provide better services to clients, and position themselves for future success in an evolving legal landscape dominated by AI and digital solutions.Thu, 04 Apr 2024 13:06:47 Z<p>In an era of rapid technology advancement, industries across the board are embracing innovation to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and stay ahead of the curve. The legal sector, traditionally perceived as conservative and resistant to change, is not immune to this trend. <br><strong><br></strong>The legal profession is steeped in tradition but as technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it's becoming clear that the industry must adapt, or risk being left behind.</p><p>According to the <a href="/insights/caribbean-legal-report-2023-changing-tides/index.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="" target="_blank">Caribbean legal research</a> from ����Ӱ�� Caribbean attorneys are well aware of that.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>When asked about the specific ways in which firms plan to grow, one popular choice was to increase investment in technology. Nearly half of respondents (49%) said they had plans to increase their investment in their processes and technology, while just over a quarter (29%) had already done so. In a similar vein, 41% of respondents said they planned to pour more money into their website, while 35% said this was something they have already implemented. In this blog post, we'll explore why Caribbean attorneys should invest in technology and how it can revolutionize their legal practice.</p><p><strong>1) Efficiency and productivity:</strong></p><p><strong><ins cite="mailto:Patel,%20Rakhee%20(LNG-LON)" datetime="2024-02-22T16:48"></ins></strong><br><strong><ins cite="mailto:Patel,%20Rakhee%20(LNG-LON)" datetime="2024-02-22T16:48"></ins></strong>One of the primary reasons Caribbean attorneys should invest in technology is the significant boost it provides to efficiency and productivity. Repetitive tasks</p>urn:uuid:2d3ba6a6-cdab-4128-a371-dcf3e0f9352b/blog/future-of-law/why-caribbean-law-firms-are-embracing-social-mediaFuture of LawSocial media is essential for Caribbean law firms, providing enhanced visibility, relationship-building opportunities, and effective marketing and recruitment channels. By leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, firms can expand their reach, engage with clients and peers, and promote their services to attract clients and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Embracing social media is crucial for building a strong brand and maintaining connections within the legal community.Mon, 22 May 2023 15:16:27 Zurn:uuid:79b37e23-4b26-4d43-8344-7d84afbf7153/blog/future-of-law/virtual-law-firms-could-they-promote-a-better-work-life-balance-for-lawyers-in-the-caribbeanFuture of LawAre more lawyers in the Caribbean wanting to become legal consultants? We spoke with a leading local recruiter and a virtual law firm owner.Thu, 07 Apr 2022 13:28:16 Z<p>In the UK legal market, a growing number of lawyers are leaving traditional law firms to work as self-employed legal consultants for fee-sharing platform law firms. In fact, experts warn that by the year 2026, a third of all UK lawyers could be working as legal consultants.</p><h5 style="text-align:center;"><a href="/research-and-reports/trex-platform-law-report.html" data-sf-ec-immutable="" data-sf-marked="">Read our new report: Rise of the legal consultants</a></h5><p>Why? Legal consultants at fee-sharing law firms can work when they want, how they want and where they want &ndash; and they get take to home the majority of their billings. Will the desire for a better work-life balance drive lawyers across the Caribbean to become self-employed legal consultants? We spoke with some Caribbean-based legal experts to find out more.<br></p><h4><strong>Remote working is now commonplace amongst lawyers in the Caribbean</strong></h4><p>Keystone Law and gunnercooke are the two largest fee-sharing law firms in the UK, each bringing in &pound;55m and &pound;48m respectively in revenue in 2021 and employing more than 700 legal consultants between them. There are also a number of U.S. firms (known locally as distributed law firms) that are rapidly growing in size, including FisherBroyles &ndash; the first alternative firm to make the 200 largest U.S. law firms by revenue list &ndash; and Rimon, which has a strong presence in Latin America and a minor presence in the Caribbean. </p><p>Charlotte Morrish, legal recruiter at Cayman Islands based recruitment firm, Stepping Stones, says she is yet to see any great change in lawyers turning to self-employment or to virtual law firms due to the existing lifestyle benefits of working in the jurisdiction &ndash; but there is a shift amongst law firms towards remote working.</p><p>&ldquo;As with the rest of the world, the Caribbean jurisdictions adapte</p>urn:uuid:63f4f995-ce3c-4ffb-8d10-d819920799bb/blog/future-of-law/celebrating-female-lawyers-in-the-caribbeanFuture of LawTo celebrate International Women’s Day on 8th March, 2022, I had the pleasure of interviewing a leading female member of the legal profession in the Caribbean. Jo-Anne Xavier-Cuffy, LL.B(Hons) L.E.C; . LLM(UWI), is the Financial Crimes and Justice Associate with the Financial Crimes Team funded by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and implemented by the National Center for State Courts. Since being called to the Bar in the Commonwealth of Dominica in 2012, Mrs. Xavier-Cuffy has held the position of Senior State Attorney in the Chambers of the Attorney General in Dominica, presented on civil matters before the Court including the Court of Appeal, and presented training sessions on civil recovery matters. She also mentored young attorneys. Mrs. Xavier-Cuffy is also a global finalist for the award in “Outstanding Cooperation with Regional Partners” from the International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA). The awards are scheduled for 25-27th April 2022.We spoke remotely to discuss the growing presence of women in the Caribbean legal profession, the importance of female legal leaders, and what her aspirations are for the next generation of female lawyers. Here are her responses to my most pressing questions.  Why is it important to have female leaders in the legal profession? Women bring their passion to the legal profession, along with a caring attitude, attentioFri, 04 Mar 2022 11:14:50 Z<p>To celebrate International Women&rsquo;s Day on 8^th March, 2022, I had the pleasure of interviewing a leading female member of the legal profession in the Caribbean. <br></p><p>Jo-Anne Xavier-Cuffy, LL.B(Hons) L.E.C; . LLM(UWI), is the Financial Crimes and Justice Associate with the Financial Crimes Team funded by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and implemented by the National Center for State Courts. <br></p><p>Since being called to the Bar in the Commonwealth of Dominica in 2012, Mrs. Xavier-Cuffy has held the position of Senior State Attorney in the Chambers of the Attorney General in Dominica, presented on civil matters before the Court including the Court of Appeal, and presented training sessions on civil recovery matters. She also mentored young attorneys. <br></p><p>Mrs. Xavier-Cuffy is also a global finalist for the award in &ldquo;Outstanding Cooperation with Regional Partners&rdquo; from the International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA). The awards are scheduled for 25-27^th April 2022.<br></p><p>We spoke remotely to discuss the growing presence of women in the Caribbean legal profession, the importance of female legal leaders, and what her aspirations are for the next generation of female lawyers.<strong> </strong>Here are her responses to my most pressing questions.&nbsp;<br></p> <h4><strong>Why is it important to have female leaders in the legal profession?</strong>&nbsp;</h4><h4><strong></strong></h4><p><strong></strong>Women bring their passion to the legal profession, along with a caring attitude, attentio</p>