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 transformative impact of AI in legal practices and its legal and ethical implications. From efficiency boosts and potential risks, this article delves into important aspects.

In recent years, the legal industry has witnessed a significant transformation with the increasing implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in law practices. As a technology integrated into the core of legal processes, AI brings potential for efficiency and accuracy. However, it also sparks discussions on its legal implications, ethics, and impacts.

AI tools, especially in the realms of document review and legal research, are proving indispensable in streamlining operations within law firms. They enable a rapid and comprehensive analysis of legal precedents and contracts, thus reducing the time lawyers spend on manual reviews. Yet, this shift towards AI-powered systems brings forth questions about the responsibilities and liabilities that accompany errors or omissions generated by AI algorithms.

One pertinent issue is the ethical dilemma concerning that AI software lacks the human judgment necessary to recognize context or nuance in legal documents. This raises concerns about the unwitting perpetuation of biases embedded within AI systems due to their reliance on historical data. Consequently, the need arises for legal practitioners to establish accountability measures and ensure AI's deployment undergoes rigorous scrutiny.

From an organizational perspective, as law firms increasingly embrace AI, they must also prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard sensitive client data managed by intelligent systems. Potential breaches pose significant risks, exacerbated by the capabilities of sophisticated hackers targeting AI vulnerabilities.

A real-world case exemplifying the effective use of AI is that of a leading law firm that employed AI-driven software for due diligence during mergers and acquisitions. Initially skeptical, they were astounded by AI's capability to identify critical elements with precision, drastically reducing human error and enabling a faster transaction speed.

Despite these benefits, ethical and legal frameworks must evolve concurrently to address the implications AI introduces. Law societies and governing bodies are urged to develop comprehensive guidelines that define acceptable AI usage to preempt any legal uncertainties.

In summary, while AI offers promising advancements for law practices, its integration should be carefully balanced with ethical diligence and robust legal scrutiny. The evolving landscape compels vigilant adaptation and assimilation of AI technologies aligned with the traditional legal principles of client confidentiality and reliable counsel.

Discover how blockchain is transforming legal contract management with smart contracts, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and security in legal processes.

Blockchain, the technology pivoting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, has found its way into a myriad of industries, including the legal domain. Known for its transparency, security, and immutability, blockchain offers unprecedented potential for legal contract management, driving efficiency and reducing the risks associated with traditional contract processes.

The legal sector has long been tethered to the labor-intensive processes of drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts. Blockchain, however, presents a digital revolution. By utilizing smart contracts—self-executing contracts with the agreement's terms directly written into code—blockchain ensures that stipulated conditions are transparently enforced without the need for third-party intermediaries. This reduction in dependency on intermediaries not only expedites contract executions but also decreases associated costs.

For instance, BlocLegal, an innovative legal tech firm, is setting precedents by integrating blockchain solutions into its practices. They provide a platform that detoxifies contract management processes, ensuring data integrity and facilitating real-time monitoring of contractual obligations. Adopters of this technology have praised its capability to safeguard sensitive information while mitigating potential contractual breaches.

Moreover, blockchain technology is pivotal in addressing issues of contractual disputes. The immutable nature of blockchain records makes it challenging for any party to dispute the terms or execution once recorded, thus enhancing trust and reducing litigation occurrences. In specific cases, like supply chain contracts, blockchain has demonstrated its efficacy in tracing product provenance and ensuring compliance with agreed terms.

While praised for its capabilities, blockchain adoption in the legal field isn't without challenges. Regulatory ambiguities and limited understanding among legal professionals hinder its widespread application. However, with the increasing dialogue around digital transformation, law firms are increasingly recognizing the value blockchain brings to enhancing operational efficiencies and fortifying trust in contractual agreements.

The persistent evolution of blockchain technology signals exciting prospects for the legal industry. With proper education and a progressive approach to digital adoption, blockchain can effectively transform traditional legal practices, setting a new norm for contract management and beyond.

Explore the latest legal technology trends revolutionizing law practices, including AI, blockchain, and cloud-based platforms, and their impact on legal operations.

The legal industry is undergoing a remarkable digital transformation, with emerging technologies reshaping how legal professionals operate, communicate, and deliver services. One of the most talked-about trends is the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into legal workflows. AI-powered tools are enhancing legal research by providing more precise and faster results, allowing lawyers to spend more time on strategic tasks.
Another pivotal trend is the use of cloud-based platforms. These platforms offer secure data storage, easy access to documents from any location, and seamless collaboration, particularly critical during the recent shift towards remote work. They have become essential for law firms seeking to maintain efficiency and security while adapting to changing work environments.
Blockchain technology is also making waves, offering transparency, security, and efficiency in legal transactions. Its application is growing in areas such as smart contracts, verifying legal documents, and tackling fraud, providing a robust framework for future legal operations.
On the communication front, many firms are turning to advanced client portals, providing clients with 24/7 access to case updates, documents, and billing, thereby enhancing client service and engagement. This trend highlights a shift toward client-centric service models, where technology is leveraged to improve user experience and satisfaction.
In a real-world example, Ernst & Young (EY), a leader in consulting, embraced technology by creating its legal managed services division. This move capitalizes on providing legal support with enhanced technological solutions, showing how industry giants are adapting to and capitalizing on the tech trend.
These advancements are not merely about adopting new tools, but also managing the cultural shift within law firms. As firms integrate these technologies, they must navigate the complexities of change management, ensuring their teams are prepared to adapt and thrive in a digital-rich environment.
As technology continues to evolve, law firms that leverage these trends effectively will likely gain a competitive advantage, streamline operations, and better serve their clients in an increasingly digital world.

Explore how technology is revolutionizing the legal industry. From AI-driven tools to blockchain and cloud solutions, learn how law firms enhance efficiency and client experience in this evolving landscape.

The legal industry is witnessing a monumental shift as technology continues to redefine traditional practices. With innovations such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud-based solutions leading the charge, law firms are seeking ways to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and client experiences.

A notable trend in this transformation is the adoption of AI-driven tools, which offer capabilities ranging from contract review to predictive analytics. These tools not only streamline routine tasks but also provide valuable insights that can influence case strategies. A renowned example of this implementation is the use of AI by a large law firm in Chicago, where machine learning algorithms assist in sifting through vast datasets, drastically reducing litigation time.

Blockchain technology is paving its way into the legal domain, offering a secure and transparent medium for contract execution. Smart contracts are becoming increasingly popular, allowing parties to agree on terms that automatically execute when predefined conditions are met. This innovative approach mitigates the risk of alterations and enhances trust among the stakeholders involved.

Moreover, cloud-based solutions are revolutionizing how legal documents are managed and accessed. By enabling remote access to case files, attorneys can collaborate seamlessly, regardless of their geographical location. This shift is particularly beneficial in a post-pandemic world where remote work has become the norm.

This ongoing evolution is not without its challenges. The integration of new technologies requires law firms to invest in cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information. Furthermore, there’s a growing concern about data privacy, compelling firms to comply with stringent regulations to maintain client confidentiality.

However, the advantages far outweigh the hurdles. Firms that embrace these technological advancements are better positioned to deliver high-quality services that cater to the dynamic needs of their clients. Furthermore, streamlining operations via technology allows for competitive pricing, thus attracting more clients and expanding market reach.

As law firms continue to adapt, it’s crucial to acknowledge the role of continuous learning and development. By keeping pace with technological advancements, legal professionals can offer innovative solutions, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry.

Discover how Big Law firms are transforming their practices with AI-driven legal services to improve efficiency and accuracy, handling routine tasks while focusing on strategic roles.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) within the legal sector is reshaping the dynamics of Big Law firms. A sea change in AI-driven legal services is burgeoning as firms seek innovative ways to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline processes.

Major firms are investing in AI technologies to revolutionize routine legal processes such as document review, legal research, and due diligence. These tasks, notorious for being time-intensive and laborious, can now be expedited with increased accuracy using AI-driven solutions.

One notable example of this shift is PWC's deployment of AI tools to perform high-volume contract reviews. This has resulted in significant time savings and has redirected human resources toward more strategic, high-value tasks.

Moreover, with AI advancing rapidly, legal professionals are beginning to see its implications in complex legal scenarios. Predictive analytics tools are being designed to anticipate litigation outcomes based on historical data, potentially transforming litigation strategies and client advising.

Nonetheless, the integration of AI is not without its challenges. Data security concerns, ethical considerations, and the need for comprehensive AI literacy among legal practitioners remain pivotal issues. To address these concerns, law firms are forming alliances with tech companies and educational institutions to ensure seamless adoption and compliance with legal standards.

In the broader legal ecosystem, AI is catalyzing an era of unprecedented change and opportunity. While some speculate that AI may diminish the demand for legal professionals, in reality, it attempts to augment their capabilities, allowing them to thrive in more strategic roles.

As Big Law continues to innovate by embracing AI, the long-term benefits are predicted to outweigh the challenges, setting a new benchmark for legal service delivery.

Explore how Big Law firms are adapting to market demands with specialized services and technology integration.

In recent years, the landscape for Big Law firms has seen significant shifts as market demands continue to evolve, pushing firms to adapt rapidly to maintain their competitive edge. The surge in demand for specialized legal services and the ongoing integration of cutting-edge technology into everyday practices are key drivers reshaping the sector. In an ever-changing legal environment, Big Law firms have found themselves compelled to offer more specialized services. Whether it's cybersecurity law, intellectual property rights, or cross-border transactions, clients are seeking expertise over general practice. This trend is evidenced by major law firms like Baker McKenzie investing in niche practice areas to cater to the increasingly complex needs of global clients. The rise of alternative legal service providers has also put traditional firms on notice. With companies like UnitedLex and Elevate offering cost-effective legal solutions, there's an imperative for Big Law to innovate operationally. Delivering high-value services efficiently has become an essential ingredient for sustaining client relationships and securing new business. Moreover, technology plays a transformative role in redefining the operational palette of Big Law. Artificial intelligence, for instance, has embraced mundane tasks like reviewing contracts, enabling lawyers to focus on more strategic elements of their roles. Case management systems and e-discovery tools are no longer futuristic dreams but real, tactical necessities for staying pertinent in the fierce legal marketplace. One real-life example of successful adaptation is Kirkland & Ellis. By leveraging a blend of traditional legal acumen and forward-thinking technology solutions, they paved their way to becoming the world's highest-grossing law firm. They have effectively aligned their service spectrum with current technological trends and market demands, setting an ideal benchmark for other Big Law entities. The shift towards flexible working models post-pandemic has also impacted Big Law, requiring firms to rethink their workspace strategies. The hybrid work model offers its own set of challenges, such as maintaining firm culture and ensuring seamless client communication but also presents opportunities for tapping into global talent pools, free from geographical constraints. As we move forward, the emphasis on adaptability will remain pivotal. Law firms that demonstrate both the agility to embrace change and the capacity to deliver specialized, tech-driven services will lead the charge in Big Law.

Discover how Big Law firms are setting the stage for a sustainable future by integrating eco-friendly practices in their operations, reshaping the legal industry's approach to environmental responsibility.

In a world increasingly aware of environmental concerns, major law firms, commonly referred to as 'Big Law,' are establishing themselves as leaders in sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
More than just a trend, this shift is a conscious choice driven by client demands, employee expectations, and a dedication to societal responsibility.

An increasing number of top-tier firms are integrating sustainable initiatives into their operational framework, creating benchmarks for future endeavors. Recognizing the mounting importance of climate change, these firms are implementing practices such as paperless operations, sustainable office environments, and eco-friendly commuting options for their staff.
This move not only aligns with global environmental goals but also appeals to a growing client base concerned with sustainability practices in legal services.

One standout example is the environmentally friendly workspace initiative undertaken by Clifford Chance in their New York office. By prioritizing renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and optimizing technological resources, Clifford Chance has significantly minimized their carbon footprint.
As this trend continues, more firms such as Hogan Lovells and Baker McKenzie are adopting similar practices, creating a ripple effect throughout the legal community.

These initiatives are not limited to internal processes. Big Law firms are engaging in external collaborations to further sustainable causes. They're advising clients on implementing environmentally responsible business strategies, ensuring adherence to new legal frameworks concerning environmental regulation.
Moreover, sustainability becomes a core tenet in legal advisory services, as firms guide their clients in sustainable investments and regulatory compliance.

Embracing these sustainable practices represents an important shift in the Big Law landscape. It propels firms forward into a new era where success is measured by financial performance, environmental stewardship, and societal impact.
As environmental concerns continue shaping the legal industry's future, firms committed to sustainability will hold a competitive edge, fostering innovative solutions for global challenges.

Explore how artificial intelligence is transforming Big Law, enhancing efficiency and redefining service delivery in leading law firms.

The landscape of Big Law is undergoing a significant transformation as artificial intelligence (AI) technologies permeate the industry, reshaping how legal services are delivered. High-profile law firms are progressively integrating AI tools, which not only optimize their operations but also redefine their service delivery.

AI has been at the forefront of revolutionizing many industries, and the legal sector is no exception. This shift towards automation and AI-powered services stems from the need to handle complex data analysis, streamline processes, and achieve higher cost-efficiency. As firms aim to remain competitive, AI's ability to manage massive databases, conduct legal research, and automate routine tasks stands out as a game-changer.

Big Law firms are beginning to employ AI for tasks that were once painstakingly manual. AI-driven platforms like Kira Systems and ROSS Intelligence have shown impressive capabilities in document review and legal research, significantly reducing the time and effort required by legal professionals. For instance, Kira Systems uses machine learning to extract and analyze contract data with exceptional precision, enhancing due diligence processes.

Moreover, AI's predictive analytics enhance decision-making within law firms by providing insights into case outcomes or potential litigation strategies. This approach boosts confidence in strategic planning, allowing firms to offer improved client advisories. In one notable instance, a leading law firm incorporated AI to predict the likelihood of winning specific cases, which helped them optimize their case management strategies and achieve a remarkable win rate improvement.

As AI adoption in Big Law grows, it presents opportunities and challenges alike. On the one hand, it fosters efficiency and precision while freeing up lawyers to focus on higher-level analytical tasks. On the other hand, ethical considerations about AI's role in client confidentiality and bias in decision-making bring critical challenges that firms must address. Nevertheless, as these technologies mature, regulations and guidelines are evolving to provide clarity on AI's legal and ethical applications.

An excellent example of AI's positive impact is the case of a global law firm that managed a complex, multi-jurisdictional merger using AI tools, expediting the process while cutting costs significantly. This move not only showcased the technology's potential but also positioned the firm as a leader in innovative legal solutions within Big Law.

AI's rise in Big Law symbolizes a paradigm shift where technology and human expertise converge to deliver superior legal services. It's an exciting time for the industry, with AI promising to redefine the boundaries and possibilities of what law firms can achieve.