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

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

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

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

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

From Twitter

Ukraine Advice Project UK @ukraine_advice Mar 11

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

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

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

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

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

What is document automation?

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

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

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

Read the full article from Law.com here.

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

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

Read the full article from the National Law Journal here.

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

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

Read the full article from the Los Angeles Times here.

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

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

Read the full article here...

Explore how technology, AI, and blockchain are reshaping the legal practice, enhancing efficiency, and transforming client service.

In recent years, the legal industry has experienced significant technological advancements that are reshaping how law is practiced. Automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain are at the forefront, driving change not only in legal operations but also in client interactions and data security.
Technology is no longer a peripheral aspect of legal work; it's central to the practice. Legal firms investing in technology are seeing benefits in efficiency, accuracy, and client service. The integration of AI tools allows for more in-depth legal research and can predict legal outcomes based on historical data. This predictive nature of AI empowers lawyers, providing them with insights that enhance decision-making processes. Keywords such as "legal tech," "AI in law," and "blockchain for law" have become prominent in discussions across top-tier law firms.
A prime example is the adoption of AI-driven contract analysis. Using machine learning, these tools can examine large volumes of contracts, identify risks, and ensure compliance with unprecedented speed. This transformation allows lawyers to focus on strategic aspects of legal practice rather than mundane, repetitive tasks. Companies like JPMorgan Chase have successfully implemented AI to streamline their contract review processes, reporting a significant reduction in review time and an increase in accuracy.
Blockchain is another groundbreaking technology sweeping through the legal sector. Offering a secure way to handle transactions and data, blockchain technology provides significant reductions in fraud risk and enhances trust in digital signatures. It is revolutionizing areas like property transactions, which are traditionally paper-heavy and time-consuming. The immutable nature of blockchain records ensures authenticity and traceability.
Legal technology firms are proliferating, offering niche solutions from document management systems to e-discovery tools. These innovations streamline operations and reduce overhead costs, leading to more competitive offerings for clients. Such digital tools also support remote work capabilities, a necessity underscored by the recent global shift towards distributed workforces.
However, adopting new technology comes with its challenges. Law firms must address cybersecurity risks, requiring robust infrastructural support to protect client data. Consistent updates and staff training remain crucial to mitigate these risks and stay adept at utilizing these technologies.
Ultimately, embracing technological tools is not just about keeping up with trends—it's about strategically positioning law firms for future growth. As legal technology continues to evolve, the lawyers who combine traditional expertise with tech-savvy knowledge will likely lead the charge in revolutionizing legal practices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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