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...

Discover how legal tech is transforming modern law practices, enhancing efficiency, client interactions, and security.

The legal industry is experiencing a significant shift as technology continues to reshape the way law firms operate. From automating routine tasks to enhancing client interactions, legal tech is proving to be a game-changer.

One of the most notable trends is the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in document review and contract analysis. AI-powered platforms can rapidly sift through vast amounts of data, identifying key clauses and potential risks, which previously required countless man-hours. This not only accelerates the process but also minimizes human error. Ernst & Young's implementation of AI tools in their contract management services has set a precedent, showcasing increased efficiency and accuracy in legal processes.

Another transformative aspect is the utilization of cloud-based solutions. These platforms provide secure, remote access to legal documents and case files, enabling attorneys to work flexibly and collaboratively. This is particularly advantageous for remote work settings, where law professionals can maintain productivity without being tethered to a physical office.

Blockchain technology is also making its mark, especially in transactional law. By providing a transparent and immutable ledger for recording transactions, blockchain ensures verifiable and tamper-proof contracts. Deloitte's exploration into blockchain for real estate transactions is a prime example of how this technology can enhance trust and reduce disputes in legal agreements.

Legal tech is not only revolutionizing back-office operations but is also enhancing client engagement through virtual legal assistants and chatbots. These tools offer clients immediate answers to common legal inquiries, thus improving service delivery while allowing lawyers to focus on more complex issues.

Furthermore, cybersecurity remains a priority as law firms adopt new technologies. Safeguarding client data against breaches is crucial. Implementing robust security measures ensures compliance with regulations and protects client confidentiality.

The rapid evolution of legal tech requires law practitioners to remain agile and open to innovation. As the industry progresses, those firms that embrace technology will likely gain a competitive edge, offering superior service and improved client outcomes.

Explore how technology is reshaping the legal industry, with insights into AI, blockchain, and cloud solutions revolutionizing law practice.

The legal landscape is witnessing an unprecedented transformation powered by technological advancements. As law firms increasingly adopt cutting-edge solutions, technology is reshaping every aspect of the legal industry.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a pivotal component in legal operations. Legal research, traditionally a time-consuming task, is now streamlined by AI algorithms. These intelligent tools can rapidly analyze vast databases, identifying relevant case laws, precedents, and legal documents within seconds. By automating routine tasks, AI enables legal professionals to focus on more complex and strategic aspects of their practice.

Blockchain technology is also making waves. Its immutable and transparent nature ensures secure transactions and contract management. Smart contracts, powered by blockchain, are gaining traction, as they automatically execute agreements when predefined conditions are met, reducing the need for intermediaries and enhancing efficiency.

The rise of cloud computing has transformed how legal professionals manage and store information. With secure cloud-based platforms, law firms can access critical documents and files from anywhere, enabling remote work and enhancing collaboration. This shift towards digitalization not only improves efficiency but also ensures data security, a top priority in the legal industry.

Real-life examples illustrate the profound impact of technology on legal practice. Many renowned law firms have embraced AI-driven platforms to enhance their productivity. Furthermore, blockchain-based solutions are being utilized in property transactions, ensuring transparency and reducing fraud risks.

As technology continues to evolve, legal professionals must stay informed and adaptable. Embracing these trends not only enhances efficiency but also positions firms for success in a rapidly changing landscape.

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.

The legal sector is evolving as law firms adopt flexible working hours to improve work-life balance and retain talent. This article explores the trend, its implications, and challenges.

In recent developments, several prominent law firms are adopting flexible working hours as part of a larger shift towards fostering a more adaptable work environment. This trend signals a substantial evolution in the law sector, traditionally known for its rigid work schedules.

The legal industry has long been associated with grueling hours and an expectation of constant availability. Recent surveys indicate that more legal professionals are prioritizing work-life balance as an essential criterion for job satisfaction. In response, law firms are beginning to implement flexible hours to attract and retain top talents.

A significant example comes from a leading New York-based law firm, which recently announced a pilot program allowing employees to log their hours flexibly, provided they meet their weekly targets. The initiative aims to improve overall job satisfaction and reduce burnout, a pervasive issue in Big Law circles.

Another facet of this trend is remote working. While the COVID-19 pandemic initially forced remote operations, many firms found that productivity levels were maintained, if not enhanced. As a result, several have decided to retain a degree of remote work in their business models, even as offices reopen. This hybrid model allows legal professionals greater control over their work environment, further contributing to positive morale.

This shift also aligns with the increasing focus on mental health within the industry. Firms have begun offering mental health days, mindfulness workshops, and counseling services as part of employee welfare packages. Such measures underscore the acknowledgment of work-life balance as central to individual and organizational success.

While these changes mark a positive shift, they are not without challenges. Flexible schedules require robust systems to ensure accountability and quality control. Moreover, there is a need for revised policies and management strategies to accommodate these new working models effectively.

As the legal industry continues to adapt, it is clear that flexible work practices will likely become a permanent fixture. These changes present an opportunity for law firms not only to attract and retain talent but also to redefine success by placing well-being on par with billable hours.

This article explores the significant role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations in Big Law, highlighting firms' adaptation to new regulations and the integration of sustainable practices.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations are progressively reshaping the legal landscape, garnering substantial attention from Big Law firms. This topic has emerged as a pivotal factor in not only corporate decision-making but also in the pursuit of sustainable business practices.

Today, more firms are integrating ESG metrics into their advisory roles, illustrating the importance of sustainable practices in driving corporate governance. This shifting paradigm is the result of growing pressures from stakeholders, including investors who now prioritize ethical standards when assessing company performance.

A real-life example can be seen through the recommendations made by leading law firms such as Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, which counsel their clients on adopting sustainable practices. This move promotes transparency and accountability, revealing how compliance is being expanded to cover aspects beyond the traditional legal framework.

Moreover, recent amendments in regulatory requirements have made it mandatory for organizations to report on ESG metrics, challenging law firms to keep up with new expectations. This trend reflects a pivotal transformation across several industries that now view ESG not merely as a compliance requirement but as a strategic asset.

Innovative Big Law firms are proactively seizing this opportunity by developing specialized teams dedicated to sustainability and corporate governance. They extend their services, offering clients comprehensive solutions that encompass risk assessments, compliance strategies, and ESG performance monitoring.

The convergence of legal and sustainability matters has provided an expanded canvas for law firms to not only assist businesses in navigating compliance landscapes but also to drive ethical growth. Firms that embrace ESG's potential stand to cultivate stronger client relationships, reinforce reputational capital, and distinguish themselves in an increasingly crowded market.

The interplay between legal counsel and ESG considerations continues to evolve, with a commitment to sustainable development proving indispensable. As more businesses reevaluate and adapt their organic cultures to prioritize ethical practices, the future of Big Law will undoubtedly be defined by its ability to champion sustainability as a central ethos.

Explore the recent trends of AI adoption among big law firms, highlighting how these advances are transforming legal practices and the challenges posed to ethical standards.

The legal industry, traditionally known for its cautious approach to change, is witnessing a transformative shift as big law firms increasingly adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This trend has gained significant momentum, particularly as firms strive to enhance efficiency and provide more value-added services to their clients.

AI's potential to analyze massive volumes of legal data rapidly and accurately is a key driver behind its growing adoption. Legal research, due diligence, and contract review are areas where AI is making a notable impact, reducing time spent on labor-intensive tasks. For instance, machine learning models can scan thousands of documents and extract relevant information, thereby streamlining the discovery process.

A real-life example of successful AI integration is evident in the case of global law firm Baker McKenzie. The firm implemented AI-powered tools for document review and legal research, leading to reduced case preparation time while maintaining accuracy. Such advancements allow attorneys to focus more on strategic decision-making rather than routine administrative tasks.

The ethical implications and professionalism standards surrounding AI use in law firms spark a critical discussion among legal professionals. While AI offers the promise of enhanced productivity, it must also uphold the ethical standards inherent in the practice of law. Issues related to data privacy, client confidentiality, and AI’s decision-making transparency remain under scrutiny.

Regulatory bodies and law societies are beginning to introduce guidelines on AI implementation, aimed at ensuring its ethical and efficient use in the legal field. These regulations are expected to evolve as AI technologies further integrate into the legal sector.

In conclusion, the adoption of AI by big law firms is setting a path for the modern legal landscape. Firms that strategically incorporate AI stand to gain a competitive edge in delivering superior client services while navigating the complex regulatory environment. This shift not only redefines how legal professionals work but also challenges them to harness AI responsibly.

Explore the trend of hybrid law firms in Big Law, where traditional practice meets modern technology for enhanced efficiency and client satisfaction.

In recent days, a noticeable trend in Big Law is the emergence of hybrid law firms that combine traditional legal practices with modern technology-driven solutions.

The concept of hybrid law firms has gained traction as more firms seek to stay competitive and meet the evolving demands of clients. These firms leverage technology, such as AI-driven legal research tools and virtual client consultations, to enhance their service delivery.

One key factor driving this shift is the need for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Hybrid law firms can streamline their operations by adopting practice management software that supports remote work, document automation, and e-discovery. This approach not only reduces overhead costs but also enables firms to offer more flexible billing models to clients, such as subscription-based services.

For instance, during my tenure at Deloitte, we observed that legal departments embracing technology solutions were able to speed up contract processing times by almost 30%. This not only improved client satisfaction but also left room for attorneys to focus on more complex legal tasks.

Moreover, the hybrid model addresses the growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices by reducing the firm’s carbon footprint through digital solutions, like e-signatures and cloud storage.

The success of hybrid law firms is evident in the legal market, which has prompted traditional firms to reconsider their operational strategies. In the past few days, leading firms such as Latham & Watkins have announced initiatives to integrate more technology into their practices, which highlights the trend toward more adaptable and client-centric service models.

As the legal industry continues to evolve, hybrid law firms are setting a new standard by balancing the foundational principles of law with cutting-edge technology. This trend not only anticipates future client needs but also ensures that law firms can thrive in a rapidly changing environment.