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 big law firms are revolutionizing legal practices with AI integration, enhancing efficiency, client service, and competitive advantage in the legal industry.

In recent years, the legal sector has witnessed a transformative shift with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in big law firms. This technological revolution is redefining traditional legal practices, offering efficiencies and unparalleled precision in various legal tasks.

Big law firms are increasingly adopting AI-powered tools to streamline document review processes. Historically, manual document review required extensive manpower and incurred significant costs. However, AI-driven applications now allow for rapid and accurate analysis of vast volumes of documents, reducing the time from weeks to mere hours. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, these systems can identify pertinent information with remarkable accuracy.

Moreover, AI is playing a pivotal role in litigation strategy. Leading firms are employing predictive analytics to assess the potential outcomes of cases based on historical data. This technological foresight enables legal professionals to devise more effective strategies, reducing uncertainties and optimizing outcomes for clients.

One notable example is at a top-tier law firm, utilizing AI to enhance their due diligence processes. By automating routine tasks, attorneys could redirect their focus to complex legal analyses, resulting in improved service delivery and increased client satisfaction. This not only elevated their competitive stance in the industry but also showcased the potential of AI in enhancing the human element of legal practices.

AI is also reshaping client interactions. Advanced chatbots, equipped with natural language processing and machine learning, are being deployed by firms to handle initial client inquiries. This allows lawyers to focus their expertise on more intricate case matters, improving overall client engagement and satisfaction. Such integration is fast becoming a cornerstone of modern client service strategies within big law firms.

However, the rise of AI in legal practices also raises ethical and regulatory concerns. Law firms must navigate data privacy regulations and ensure that AI applications adhere to the ethical standards expected in the legal profession. Safeguarding client confidentiality remains paramount, requiring a balanced approach to embracing technological advancements.

The integration of AI in big law firms is not merely a trend; it is a paradigm shift. As the legal profession evolves, firms that harness AI's full potential stand to gain a distinct competitive advantage. With ongoing innovations in AI, the future promises even greater potential for legal practices, forever altering the landscape of the legal industry.

Discover how AI is transforming legal research and practice, enhancing efficiency, and posing new ethical challenges for law firms.

Artificial intelligence has begun to redefine the boundaries of legal practice, specifically in the domain of legal research. The implementation of AI technologies enables attorneys and law firms to enhance their research capabilities, providing faster and more accurate outcomes than traditional methods.

AI tools are streamlining the document review processes, making it more efficient to sift through massive amounts of legal information. These software solutions can identify patterns and offer predictions that were once the domain of human expertise alone. Implementing AI in legal research not only saves time but also reduces the potential for human error.

At a prominent law firm where I once consulted, AI-driven research tools were revolutionizing how attorneys approached case preparation. With the ability to analyze thousands of legal documents in a fraction of the time previously required, lawyers could focus on strategy rather than groundwork. This reflects a broader trend across the industry, where AI is not merely a tool for efficiency but a catalyst for deeper innovations in legal strategies.

Moreover, AI is enhancing decision-making in legal cases. Machine learning algorithms can explore past cases, assess legal probabilities, and even anticipate judicial outcomes based on historical data. Such predictive analytics are invaluable for crafting more effective legal strategies and for advising clients with greater assurance.

The rise of AI in legal practice also poses certain ethical challenges. There is an ongoing debate regarding the extent of AI's role in the legal decision-making process and its implications for human accountability. While AI can offer remarkable insights, it is crucial that attorneys remain vigilant in assessing these outcomes and complement AI's capabilities with their critical judgment.

The future of AI in legal practice calls for a dialogue among legal professionals to address these challenges while embracing the immense potential AI offers. As we witness firsthand the transformation of legal practices through AI, it becomes evident that those who adapt and integrate these technologies are poised to lead in an ever-evolving legal landscape.

An exploration of the growing influence of AI in legal practices, focusing on innovation and ethical challenges.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly revolutionizing various sectors, and the legal industry is no exception. As legal professionals seek to enhance efficiency and accuracy in their daily operations, AI solutions are becoming indispensable tools. However, this technological evolution is accompanied by ethical considerations that law firms must address.

Legal technology is advancing rapidly, with AI-driven tools being employed for tasks such as contract analysis, due diligence, and legal research. AI has the ability to sift through vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and deliver insights in a fraction of the time it would take a human, thereby enhancing productivity and reducing operational costs.

One prominent example is the use of machine learning algorithms in contract review processes. Firms like Deloitte and PwC have integrated AI solutions that can efficiently review and analyze complex contracts, minimizing the risk of human error and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. These tools not only streamline workflows but also liberate legal professionals from mundane tasks, allowing them to focus on more strategic aspects of legal practice.

However, the integration of AI into legal workflows is not without its challenges. Ethical concerns are at the forefront, with issues such as data privacy and algorithmic bias garnering significant attention. Law firms need to ensure that AI systems are transparent, whose operations can be easily interpreted by human supervisors. Moreover, the confidentiality of client data remains imperative.

Addressing these concerns requires a robust framework that combines technological innovation with firm ethical guidelines. Law firms should collaborate with tech companies and regulatory bodies to establish standards that ensure AI systems are implemented responsibly. Additionally, ongoing training for legal professionals on AI ethics and data management is crucial to harnessing the benefits of AI while maintaining professional integrity.

The case of Ernst & Young illustrates successful AI adoption. By incorporating AI into their processes, EY managed to increase efficiency without compromising ethical standards, setting a benchmark for other legal practices aiming to navigate the complexities of AI technology.

In conclusion, AI in legal practices offers unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation. As the industry embraces these technologies, balanced integration with ethical guidelines will be key to sustaining success and trust in legal services.

Explore how AI is transforming legal practice, from research to contract review, highlighting the benefits and challenges of integrating technology into law.

The legal industry is witnessing a seismic shift with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into its practice. Recent advancements in legal technology have seen AI move beyond theoretical discussions into real-world applications that are reforming how legal professionals operate.

One of the most notable advancements is in the realm of legal research. Platforms powered by AI algorithms are redefining the research landscape, offering attorneys the ability to comb through vast databases of case law, statutes, and legal briefs with unprecedented speed and accuracy. This not only saves time but also enhances the quality and precision of legal analysis. Notably, law firms that have embraced these technologies report increased efficiency and improved client satisfaction.

AI is also making inroads in contract review and management. Sophisticated AI tools now facilitate the review of complex contracts by identifying potential issues and ensuring compliance with current regulations. This automation not only reduces the manpower required but also minimizes the risk of human error, providing a robust safeguard for law firms and their clients.

Moreover, AI's role in predictive analytics is setting the stage for what could be a revolutionary change in strategic legal planning. By analyzing historical case data, AI can offer probabilistic outcomes on case rulings, giving legal practitioners valuable insights to guide their litigation strategies.

However, this transformation is not without its challenges. Ethical concerns arise with the delegation of traditionally human tasks to machines. The fear of AI-induced job displacement looms large, calling for a balanced approach where technology acts as an enabler for human expertise rather than a replacement.

Reflecting on my time at top firms such as Deloitte and EY, where we implemented early AI tools for audit and compliance, the trajectory of AI in the legal field is reminiscent of that experienced in accounting. The success lies in adopting a forward-thinking mindset, preparing for new legal tech by investing in continuous learning and embracing a future where man and machine work hand-in-hand.

Today, AI is not just an add-on tool in the legal arena; it is an integral component poised to redefine the future of law practice. As firms continue to adapt, those that successfully navigate the integration of AI into their processes will likely gain a significant competitive advantage.

Explore the trend of law firm mergers and consolidations reshaping Big Law. Understand strategic growth, cultural integration, and technological challenges in the evolving legal industry.

In the dynamic landscape of Big Law, mergers and consolidations have emerged as powerful strategies for growth and adaptation. As firms strive to enhance their market presence, the legal industry witnesses a growing trend of partnerships and integrations, reshaping the framework of legal services today.

The allure of consolidation lies in the promise of expanded capabilities, amplified resources, and broadened reach. Recently, the merger between two prominent New York-based firms exemplifies this strategic movement. The merger, initially viewed as an ambitious undertaking by skeptics, has proven to be a substantial success, resulting in increased client portfolios and enhanced practice areas.

Such strategic consolidations go beyond mere numbers and financial gain. By combining forces, firms can leverage a wider set of expertise and offer more comprehensive services to their clients. This rings particularly true in cases where firms focus on specialized fields, such as intellectual property or international law. Incorporating diverse specialties not only enriches the firm's offering but also bolsters its competitive standing in a saturated market.

Yet, with significant mergers come unique challenges. One of the most critical issues firms face is cultural integration. Harmonizing different company cultures, work ethics, and operational philosophies is crucial for ensuring seamless collaboration and maintaining a unified identity. The success of this integration often hinges on effective communication and leadership commitment.

The case of a recent merger involving a renowned Californian firm underscores the importance of early and transparent communication. By prioritizing stakeholder dialogues, addressing potential conflicts head-on, and fostering an inclusive environment, the firm exemplified the value of strategic planning in successful mergers.

Moreover, technological integration poses another pivotal challenge. As law firms increasingly adopt digital tools and innovative platforms, streamlined integration of technology systems becomes essential. A merger presents an opportunity to harness next-gen technology solutions, but it also demands meticulous synchronization to avoid operational hiccups.

Ultimately, the growing inclination toward mergers and consolidations in Big Law speaks volumes about the evolving nature of the legal industry. For firms looking to ride this wave, it is essential to approach mergers with strategic foresight, focusing on both opportunities for expansion and potential hurdles in implementation.

The trend of law firm mergers and consolidations indicates a promising horizon for Big Law, where adaptation and ingenuity will carve the path forward.

Explore how Big Law firms are adapting to the remote work landscape, focusing on tech integration and cybersecurity.

The legal industry, known for its traditional roots and structure, has witnessed a paradigm shift in its operational model, primarily attributed to the repercussions of the pandemic. Big Law firms, previously resistant to change, are now recalibrating their strategies to embrace remote work. This trend, once considered a temporary fix, is carving a permanent niche in the legal sector.

Recent statistics suggest that a significant portion of legal professionals exhibit a preference for hybrid work models. This growing inclination towards flexibility is supported by a myriad of benefits, including enhanced work-life balance and increased productivity. However, integrating remote work within the rigid framework of Big Law firms requires assessing the intricate balance between flexibility and maintaining an esteemed tradition of client service.

A noteworthy trend, as observed in recent publications on www.progressivelawpractice.com, highlights Big Law firms investing heavily in digital infrastructure. With advanced technologies, virtual client meetings have witnessed a seamless transition, maintaining the undiminished quality of service. Additionally, firms like Deloitte are leveraging collaborative platforms ensuring smooth intra-firm communication, breaking away from the conventional hallways of large offices.

However, this shift is not devoid of challenges. Firms are grappling with the nuances of data security—a paramount concern in legal practice. Remote work inherently introduces vulnerabilities, compelling firms to adopt robust cyber security measures. The race to protect sensitive client information saw noticeable increments in cybersecurity budgets, a topic frequently debated in the legal arenas.

Interestingly, this evolution mirrors certain accounting trends seen in the early 2000s. Just as accounting firms pivoted to embrace technology amidst financial crises, Big Law is navigating the digital transformation, ensuring adaptability without compromising traditional values.

In parallel, the talent acquisition strategy of Big Law firms is undergoing substantial revision. Young professionals entering the field prioritize flexibility, prompting firms to reimagine their offerings. A hybrid environment is fast resolving as a non-negotiable aspect of employment, adding another layer to the competitive landscape of acquiring top talent.

The ripple effect of these changes is visible in client expectations as well. They anticipate swift, technology-driven responses, aligning with the pace of a digital-first world. Thus, the convergence of innovation, tradition, and expectation in Big Law presents a comprehensive learning arc on how industries can sustainably adapt to change.

Recent trends in big law firm mergers highlight strategic moves to enhance client services and geographic expansion, navigating challenges and opportunities in the legal industry.

The landscape of large-scale law firms has seen a notable shift recently, with mergers and acquisitions taking center stage. In an era where competitive advantage and expanded geographic reach are paramount, these mergers have become a strategic move for law firms seeking growth and diversification.

Mergers among big law firms are not merely about increasing headcount. For instance, when Dentons and McKenna Long & Aldridge merged, it wasn't just about expanding their workforce but was a strategic alignment to enhance their client service offerings and global reach. The emphasis is on creating a more robust service capability and positioning the firm in emerging markets.

Recently, a significant merger unfolded between two major players, [Fictional Law Firm A] and [Fictional Law Firm B]. This merger signifies an industry trend where firms consolidate their resources to serve a broader clientele with comprehensive legal services. Clients increasingly demand a single point of contact for all their legal issues, making these mergers a forward-thinking approach to legal practice.

From my experience, when I worked alongside top accounting firms, mergers were evaluated through meticulous due diligence, ensuring that the cultural and operational synergies align. This same discipline is now being seen in the legal sphere. Beyond the numbers and market placements, a successful merger relies heavily on aligned firm cultures and client management philosophy.

However, it's not without its challenges. The integration of disparate management systems and aligning hundreds of attorneys used to different operational modes can be a daunting task. Recent studies published in legal industry reports underscore that the success rate often hinges on the level of integration planning and execution – a core post-merger process that can dictate the future success of the consolidated firm.

While some industry analysts may view these mergers as a necessary evolution to withstand hyper-competitive conditions, others express concerns over a diminishing personalized client experience or potential conflicts of interest. Yet, the trend continues to gain momentum, painting a picture of an increasingly collaborative future for big law firms.

As these mega-mergers continue to shape the legal landscape, the focus shifts to how these consolidated entities will manage to keep their distinctive strengths, corporate cultures and responsive client care intact. Law firms must vigilantly nurture these aspects to ensure the longevity and success of their mergers.

Legal pros operating in virtual environments overwhelmingly said the “ability to travel and work from anywhere” was the defining characteristic of their practice.

To that end, more than three-quarters of all those surveyed by the American Bar Association (ABA) identified travel flexibility as the most important component of their virtual operations, and a majority of attorneys identified an improved work/life balance as a key reason for their decision to work remotely.

These results, among others, are included in the ABA’s recently published TechReport 2023, which will be released in parts every Monday through February and covers a litany of tech topics ranging from AI to cybersecurity to training and budgeting, according to the trade association.

AI has been an increasingly hot topic legislatively and in the legal community itself. As such, there was no shortage of legislation introduced in 2023 aimed at ensuring artificial intelligence is developed properly, and the Brennan Center released a tracking portal to make it easier to keep tabs on federal legislation addressing the emerging tech.

“Just as artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving, so is the legislative landscape. A plethora of bills have already been introduced this session, with many more coming down the pike,” according to the center. “The tracker adds to the Brennan Center’s research on the risks AI poses to elections and the discriminatory impact of AI used in immigration, law enforcement social media monitoring, and facial recognition.”

Per the ABA data, virtually practicing attorneys make up 11% of the total population in the field. Additionally, 60% cited “minimal contact with clients” and 53% identified a “lack of traditional physical office” as the top characteristic defining their work.

“The Legal Technology Survey Report, launched more than two decades ago by the ABA Law Practice Division, is recognized as the primary source for information regarding the use of technology by attorneys in private practice. It is based on responses by practicing lawyers—not consultants, vendors or IT staff,” according to the ABA.

The survey is separated into nine separate sections and is focused on tech issues rather than actual products used to execute legal practices, notes the study.

From X (formerly Twitter)

Relativity @RelativityHQ ·Dec 21

"Artificial intelligence has been the story of 2023 in #legaltech. Dr. Aron Ahmadia, Senior Director for Applied Science at Relativity, believes the release of GPT-4 represents the “dawn of a new era in legal technology.” https://ow.ly/RQYe50QkOkH #Predictions #AI #GPT4"

Other examples of data in the report include:

• More than half (56%) of respondents reported regular use of fee-based online services in support of legal research, while 21% indicated occasional use
• Only 12% said of respondents “never” use fee-based internet services to do legal research
• Compared to 65% of firms in 2022, 64% in this year’s survey indicated they are budgeting for technology
• In each of the last four years, fewer attorneys reported using a desktop for their “primary computer.” In 2020, 49% of those asked reported as much, a number that steadily dropped to 40% in 2023
• In 2023, 54% of those asked said a laptop computer is their primary work device

From X (formerly Twitter)

Tom Martin @lawdroid 

"Free Law Project Seeks to Develop Open Access System to Disrupt Court E-Filing; Seeks Court Partners https://buff.ly/3tvQcWb #lawtwitter #futureoflaw #legaltech #courts #justicetech #a2j #accesstojustice"