The American Bar Association’s (ABA) pro bono project enjoyed the most volunteer participation ever in 2021, with more than 140 attorneys handling at least 50 legal inquiries last year.

The online program, ABA Free Legal Answers, includes participation from more than 10,000 U.S. lawyers in 45 states, according to information from the trade group. The web-based ask-and-answer service is aimed at helping income-eligible residents get legal assistance from volunteer attorneys.

“For those who cannot afford an attorney and have nowhere else to turn, ABA Free Legal Answers serves as a critical resource,” said ABA President Reginald Turner in a statement. “We are proud of the more than 10,000 volunteer lawyers nationwide who are helping to meet these important legal needs, and particularly pleased about the efforts of our FLA Pro Bono Leaders. We urge other attorneys to step up and assist as well.”

Recently, the ABA recognized the most prolific volunteer attorneys with the publication of its 2021 Pro Bono Leaders list. Texas led the pack with 14 individuals, organizations, schools or law firms answering more than 50 inquiries. Illinois, though, was a close second with 13 such entities qualifying for recognition.

“ABA Free Legal Answers offers a flexible online platform, even in pandemic conditions, to do this important pro bono work from our offices, homes, makeshift workstations at the courthouse and on our own time,” said attorney Brandon A. Robinson. “Participating on the platform with hundreds of North Carolinians has been one of my daily joys during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

From Twitter

Ukraine Advice Project UK @ukraine_advice Mar 11

"IMPORTANT UPDATE Since the project began on Monday 28 February, the response from the profession has been humbling, and somewhat overwhelming. The project has registered over 430 volunteer lawyers to date and given pro bono advice on almost 700 requests."

According to the ABA, the program has helped answer close to 200,000 inquiries and has doubled in volume over the last two years.

Earlier this year, The Association of Pro Bono Counsel put out a report detailing the impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on the pro bono service industry, and highlighted some of the ways to retain best practices moving forward. The report “Positive Change: How the Pandemic Changed Pro Bono and What We Should Keep,” includes analysis from the legal services community, non-profit legal advocates and experts in the field, according to the Counsel. “We hope it will spark thoughtful discussion about how we pro bono volunteers, legal services organizations, bar associations and the courts can continue to expand access to justice for all members of our communities,” reads information from the group.

According to the report, the Counsel recommends legal service providers offer things like virtual clinics, online platforms, in-person meetings when technological resources are unavailable, technological resources for volunteers and e-filing, among other things.

“This final report documents changes to the delivery of pro bono legal services during the pandemic, with the focus primarily on how the adjustments to intake, representation and advocacy impacted clients,” notes the report. “Our hope is that documenting and sharing these experiences and practices will inspire those responsible for delivering pro bono legal services… and those responsible for the systems with which pro bono client communities interact … to consider keeping the changes that benefited client communities, and to continue to develop accessible, client-centered systems that deliver just outcomes.”

What is document automation?

Document automation means creating automated templates, using software, for legal documents (such as contracts).

Once the templates are created, users of the software usually answer questionnaires. Once it has this information, the software can instantly generate the contract, and you’re done.

The purpose is to automate the repetitive process of building a document from scratch each time you need a new contract.

In practice, many contracts are extremely similar, with just a few variations. So, for example, once you create an NDA template, the next time you need an NDA, you can generate the template much more quickly using the questionnaire.

 

 

 

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As a lawyer, you might not think of your work as “creative.”

True, on your off time, you might pursue creative endeavors such as writing, cooking, painting, or practicing a musical instrument. But the practice of law requires a rigorously analytic mindset that relies on precise, predictable processes and precedents.

From a professional standpoint, you probably relegate “creativity” to realms like advertising and product design.

But take a closer look at what you do, and you’ll see that you’re often called upon to come up with solutions that aren’t necessarily found in case law and legal textbooks.

During a difficult negotiation you’re handling for a business client, say, or in researching a legal problem that seems to have no obvious precedents, you may have suddenly come upon the solution while reading a book on a different topic, or while mulling over the matter during a long walk.

 

 

 

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There’s no question about it, content marketing is today’s marketing. It’s what everyone in the marketing world is talking about and has been talking about for the last couple of years.

And with good reason: within one broad banner, content marketing encompasses almost every aspect of marketing, client engagement and brand promotion.

It makes sense, then, that content marketing has been touted as the “must have” strategy for businesses, and many have jumped on board the content marketing train.

According to Hubspot, content marketing generates three times as many leads as traditional marketing but costs 62% less. Furthermore, companies that publish at least 16 blog posts per month average 3.5 times more traffic than those that post four or fewer.

 

 

 

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General Electric's general counsel's 2012 compensation package afforded him almost $11 million in cash, making him the highest paid general counsel on Corporate Counsel magazine's latest list of the nation's 100 highest paid GCs. So reports Law.com.

At $1,853,671, the average take-home pay enjoyed by the lawyers on the list this year is the highest it has ever been.

Read the full article from Law.com here.

After entering a guilty plea, John Farahi, founder of Newpoint Financial Services Inc., was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on March 20, according to a National Law Journal story. The Beverly Hills businessman admitted his role in a $20 million Ponzi scheme and the plea could have ramifications for former Nixon Peabody securities partner David Tamman, who was found guilty for his role in the scheme.

Tamman’s lawyer, though, insists the two instances are different and “suspect the judge will listen to what we have to say and make a decision accordingly."

Read the full article from the National Law Journal here.

A Los Angeles nutrition company is locked in a legal battle with billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who has accused the company of perpetuating a pyramid scheme. Herbalife officials said the company will up their legal defense costs from $25 million to $40 million in the wake of Ackman’s accusations, according to a Los Angeles Times article.

Ackman, who reportedly bet $1 billion the company is a sham, has said most of the company’s sales people lose money and expects the company’s shares to fall to zero.

Read the full article from the Los Angeles Times here.

When attorney F. Lee Bailey was indicted for mail fraud in 1973, he quoted a popular aphorism referencing the difference between how England and the U.S. treat their criminal defense lawyers.  “In England they are apt to be knighted; in the United States they are apt to be indicted.”  There is quite a bit of truth in the saying and the dangers inherent in practicing law in the U.S. are not only faced by defense lawyers.  Sensing an opportunity, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently set its sights on corporate in-house counsel.

In November, 2010, Lauren Stevens, a former vice president and general counsel for pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline, was indicted on federal charges of making false statements and obstructing a federal investigation.  Stevens was accused of making false and misleading statements in a series of letters to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on behalf of her employer.  Despite it having been obvious from the beginning that Stevens was only relaying information furnished by her client and had no intent or motive to mislead federal investigators, she was enthusiastically pursued by the DOJ.  “Where facts and law allow, the Justice Department will pursue individuals responsible for illegal conduct just as vigorously as we pursue corporations,” Tony West, assistant attorney general for the civil division, said in a statement.  It should be noted that despite the DOJ’s stated commitment to pursue corporations, GlaxoSmithKline’s name was noticeably absent from the Stevens indictment.  West continued, “Criminal charges are appropriate when false statements such as those alleged here are made to the FDA.”

Read the full article here...

Explore the latest trends in legal tech, including AI integration, virtual courtrooms, and blockchain applications in the legal industry.

The legal industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation with the rapid adoption of technology. These technological advancements are not only enhancing the efficiency of law practices but also redefining the way legal services are delivered.

One of the most significant trends is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in legal processes. AI-powered tools are being used for tasks such as contract review, legal research, and due diligence. This technology helps in analyzing large volumes of data quickly and accurately, saving time for legal professionals and allowing them to focus on more complex tasks.

Another emerging trend is the rise of virtual courtrooms. The pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual hearings, and this practice has continued due to its effectiveness. Virtual courtrooms offer a more flexible and efficient way to handle cases, reducing the costs and time associated with traditional court settings.

Blockchain technology is also making its mark in the legal field. With its ability to provide secure, transparent, and immutable records, blockchain is being explored for smart contracts and the management of legal documents. This innovation holds the potential to significantly reduce fraud and enhance trust in legal transactions.

Cybersecurity remains a top priority for legal practices as they increasingly rely on digital solutions. Protecting sensitive client information from cyber threats is critical. Law firms are investing in advanced cybersecurity measures to safeguard their data and maintain client confidentiality.

From my experience working with top accounting firms, I've witnessed how technology can revolutionize traditional business services. For instance, Deloitte and EY have successfully implemented AI-driven solutions in their audit and consulting services, leading to improved accuracy and efficiency. Similarly, law firms can harness these technologies to enhance their service delivery and gain a competitive edge.

In summary, the legal industry is embracing technology at an unprecedented pace. Law firms that adapt to these changes and integrate technology into their operations will be better positioned to meet the evolving demands of their clients and maintain a competitive advantage in the market.

Explore the impact of advancements in legal technology including AI, blockchain, and cloud services that are transforming the legal industry.

In recent years, technological advancements have significantly impacted various sectors, and the legal industry is no exception. As law firms strive to stay competitive, the integration of legal technology has proven crucial in streamlining operations and enhancing client satisfaction.

One of the most notable trends in legal tech is the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI-driven software applications are now being used for document review, legal research, and predictive analytics. For instance, some pioneering firms have adopted AI to automate time-consuming tasks such as contract review and due diligence. This not only speeds up discovery but also minimizes human error, thus improving accuracy and efficiency.

Blockchain technology is another innovation making waves in the legal sector. By providing secure and immutable records, blockchain is being touted as a tool to enhance transparency and trust, especially in areas such as property rights and digital identity verification. Several top law firms have already started investing in blockchain research to stay ahead of the curve.

Moreover, cloud-based legal management software is gaining popularity for facilitating remote work and increasing collaboration. With data security being a significant concern, these platforms ensure that sensitive client information is kept secure while allowing legal teams to access documents and cases from anywhere in the world, fostering collaboration without geographic limitations.

E-discovery tools are also revolutionizing the legal landscape. Advanced search algorithms significantly reduce the time taken to sift through extensive datasets, ensuring that critical evidence is identified promptly. This transformational shift in how discovery is conducted is leading to faster resolution of cases and reducing litigation costs.

As the legal industry continues to embrace these technologies, the role of legal professionals is also evolving. With mundane tasks being automated, legal experts are now able to focus more on strategic decision-making and client interaction, adding greater value to their services.

Explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on legal practices, from enhancing legal research accuracy to predictive analytics, as AI reshapes law firms.

The advent of artificial intelligence in legal practice has significantly transformed how law firms operate, offering an array of benefits that streamline processes and enhance service delivery. Law firms are increasingly integrating AI technologies, and the impact is nothing short of revolutionary.

AI has notably transformed legal research, eliminating the need for tedious manual searches through extensive case files. With AI-powered platforms, case law research is expedited, helping attorneys find relevant information faster and with greater accuracy. These platforms use natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to predict case outcomes, offering insights that were previously unimaginable.

Contract review and management have also seen significant improvements. AI's ability to quickly analyze and interpret contract terms reduces the risks of human error and ensures consistency across documents. AI tools are assisting attorneys by highlighting potential issues and non-standard clauses that could pose risks, providing a more robust risk management framework.

Predictive analytics in AI applications are another groundbreaking development. By analyzing vast amounts of past case data, AI systems predict legal outcomes and assist lawyers in shaping their legal strategies. This increased capacity for predictive insights helps law practitioners provide clients with data-driven advice, enhancing client trust and satisfaction.

However, as AI integrates into legal practice, ethical considerations come to the forefront. Issues surrounding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the need for transparency in AI decision-making processes are critical challenges needing careful navigation. Law firms must implement comprehensive compliance strategies to ensure AI technologies are used responsibly, maintaining the highest standard of client confidentiality and ethical practice.

The move towards AI assessment tools can be seen in firms like Deloitte and PWC, where they have developed AI-driven solutions to handle client engagements more efficiently. Such pioneering efforts highlight how critical technology is to shaping modern legal practice, setting benchmarks for innovation and efficiency.

As law firms continue to embrace AI, the future landscape of legal practice promises to evolve significantly. By staying ahead of these trends, law firms are not only enhancing operational efficiency but also fostering a culture of innovation that can lead to more robust and client-centric legal services.

Examining the rise of automation in legal technology, this article explores how automated solutions are transforming law firms, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in legal services.

The legal industry is witnessing a transformative wave driven by advancements in legal technology. Automation, in particular, has gained significant traction within the sector, setting the stage for a more efficient, accurate, and streamlined legal service delivery.

Automation in legal practice is primarily focused on reducing manual workload, saving time, and minimizing human errors. Many law firms are beginning to implement automated software solutions to handle repetitive tasks such as document review, due diligence, and compliance checks. By automating these processes, firms can allocate their human resources to more strategic and client-focused tasks, enhancing overall productivity.

A notable example of automation impacting legal practices is the deployment of AI-based legal research tools. These tools can sift through massive volumes of legal data, statutes, and case laws within seconds, producing comprehensive reports that would take hours for a human to compile. Such innovations are not only saving significant time but are also enhancing the accuracy of legal research.

Another area where automation is making strides is contract management. Automated contract analysis and review systems are being adopted by law firms to streamline contract workflows. These systems can highlight potential risks, inconsistencies, and deviations from standard legal protocols, thereby ensuring that contracts comply with legal standards before they're finalized.

In a real-life business case, a top law firm in the United States successfully integrated an AI-powered contract management system, reducing their contract review time by nearly 60%. This shift allowed their legal professionals to focus more on high-value negotiations and advisory roles, ultimately improving client satisfaction and business outcomes.

While the integration of automation in legal tech is promising, it is not without challenges. Concerns about data security, ethical implications, and the need for continued human oversight are some issues that legal professionals must consider. Nonetheless, the potential benefits of automation, including cost reduction and improved service delivery, are driving its adoption across law firms.

The evolution of legal technology with automation at its core highlights the industry's commitment to embracing innovation and improving operational efficiencies. As law firms continue to adopt automated solutions, the legal landscape is expected to become more dynamic and responsive to the ever-changing needs of clients and the market.

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.

Discover how Big Law firms are adapting to environmental litigation trends by integrating multidisciplinary approaches and enhancing their role in major cases globally.

The landscape of environmental litigation is witnessing a profound transformation, with Big Law firms increasingly at the helm of this change. As environmental concerns climb the global agenda, major law firms are stepping up their game in representing corporations, governments, and NGOs in a variety of environmental issues.

In recent months, the pace at which Big Law firms are adapting to environmental litigation demands has accelerated. This shift is partly driven by regulatory changes in key markets such as the United States. For instance, recent updates to the Clean Air Act have imposed stricter emissions standards, compelling corporations to seek legal guidance to navigate the complexities of compliance.

A compelling factor in this evolution is the growing need for multidisciplinary approaches in handling environmental cases. Law firms are increasingly integrating experts in environmental science, engineering, and public policy to strengthen their legal strategies. This collaborative approach is enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of arguments presented in court, as seen in cases such as the litigation against major oil corporations over their carbon emissions.

A notable example of the success Big Law firms have achieved in this realm is the multi-billion dollar settlement negotiated by one of the leading firms in a case involving river pollution in the Midwest. This settlement not only showcased the firm’s expertise but also underscored the role of corporate responsibility and environmental protection in modern corporate governance.

Moreover, Big Law firms are placing sustainability at the core of their practices, not just to address client needs, but also to enhance their reputational capital. They are investing in dedicated environmental law teams, participating in global sustainability initiatives, and advocating for greener legal practices.

As environmental policies continue to evolve, the ability of Big Law firms to anticipate changes and effectively represent their clients' interests will remain a key determinant of their success. Their involvement in environmental litigation is likely to intensify, reflecting the broader industry's commitment to tackling one of the most pressing global challenges.

Firms that can blend legal acumen with scientific and governmental insights will be best positioned to steer their clients through the complexities of environmental litigation. This dynamic is set to redefine what it means to be a leader in Big Law, emphasizing strategic foresight, innovation, and an unfaltering commitment to sustainability.

Explore the impact of remote work on Big Law firms, including technological adaptations, cybersecurity challenges, and future operational strategies.

The rapid shift to remote work over the past few years has left an indelible mark on the operations of Big Law firms. Initially driven by necessity, this shift has now evolved into a strategic consideration that could redefine the future of legal practice.

Many law firms have swiftly adapted to the remote work model, finding innovative ways to ensure seamless collaboration among partners, associates, and staff. The integration of technology has been instrumental in this transformation. Tools like high-security video conferencing and virtual collaboration platforms have allowed law practitioners to maintain productivity and client engagement, irrespective of physical location.

However, remote work is not without its challenges. Ensuring data security and confidentiality remains a top concern for law firms operating in the virtual space. Robust cybersecurity measures are essential to protect sensitive client information, particularly amid escalating cyber threats. Investing in state-of-the-art security protocols and employee training is vital for preventing breaches and maintaining client trust.

Moreover, the shift to remote work has prompted a reevaluation of traditional office spaces. Many Big Law firms are reconsidering their real estate needs, leading to significant cost savings and a reassessment of physical locations. This trend also aligns with firms' sustainability goals as they seek to reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing in-office work.

From a talent management perspective, remote work offers opportunities for law firms to attract and retain top talent globally. By offering flexible work arrangements, firms can tap into a diverse pool of legal professionals, enhancing their competitive edge in the talent market.

Looking forward, the hybrid model appears to be the likely future for Big Law firms. By balancing remote and in-office work, firms can optimize operations, reduce overhead costs, and foster a more flexible work culture that is attractive to both current and prospective employees. As the legal industry continues to evolve, the insights gained from the remote work experience will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of Big Law operations.

Learn about how ESG criteria influence corporate legal strategies. Discover the impact on compliance, stakeholder priorities, and risk management.

The recent emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria has become a dominant influence on corporate legal strategies. As investors and stakeholders increasingly prioritize sustainability, corporations are re-evaluating their legal obligations and compliance measures with a focus on ESG standards rather than strictly financial metrics.
This shift has been particularly evident within multinational corporations, where the stakes are highest. For example, an accounting scandal tied to environmental misreporting could spell disaster not only in terms of fines but also the loss of investor confidence—a scenario reminiscent of historic corporate failures like Enron, where lack of transparency had grave repercussions.
In practice, this means legal teams are collaborating more closely than ever with departments such as procurement, finance, and HR to ensure that their company's ESG initiatives are legal-compliant. For instance, companies are incorporating carbon reduction pledges into their procurement contracts, which inevitably challenges corporate lawyers to navigate complex jurisdictional regulations.
Moreover, the increasing integration of ESG factors is not just a corporate strategy but also an advocacy point for law firms themselves. Top law firms in the U.S. are establishing ESG-focused practice groups, signaling the significance of being proactive rather than reactive. These teams advise clients on regulatory compliance, risk management, and sustainable investment—all critical components demanded by the modern investor.
Lastly, the influence of ESG factors has extended to litigation risk and defense strategies. Lawsuits relating to environmental damage, wrongful dismissals, or governance malpractice are increasingly common. Legal teams are therefore tasked with defending their companies against allegations and litigations tied to ESG shortfalls.
In essence, in today's business environment, understanding and integrating ESG considerations into corporate legal strategies are no longer a matter of choice but necessity. As stakeholders demand more transparency and responsibility, corporate lawyers must adapt to anticipate and mitigate new-age risks.