Nick Ivory

🚀 AI rising rapidly in the legal sector! According to a recent blog by LexisNexis, AI implementation is increasing across the UK legal landscape, transforming the way legal professionals operate. According to survey findings, the number of lawyers using generative AI for work purposes has nearly quadrupled in just over a year, jumping from 11% in July 2023 to an impressive 41% in September 2024. Additionally, the percentage of lawyers planning to use AI has also increased significantly, from 28% to 41% during the same period. As firms increasingly adopt AI technologies, they are seeing immediate benefits from streamlining routine, administrative tasks. Therefore, activities such as legal research, document review, and contract analysis will become simpler and quicker, allowing lawyers to concentrate on complex and strategic work. The larger law firms, one being Linklaters, seem to be at the forefront of driving AI adoption, with 78% having made changes to implement generative AI. As with any technological change, this does come with some challenges. It will be important for lawyers to keep up with the pace of the new technology, which will bring the need for continuous learning, resource allocation, and training to stay ahead of the curve. Will AI continue to just be an immediate benefit to help with the administrative tasks in the legal sector, or could it ever be a long-term solution to completely solve complex legal work? Full article: https://lnkd.in/e887u4Y6 #LegalTech #AI #Innovation #PrivatePractice #LawFirms #Technology

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Interesting article on cost control in-house. According to Thomson Reuters ➕ 72% are looking to improve the efficiency of internal work processes ➕ 68% of GCs said they are bringing more work in-house ➕ 67% looking to drive greater value from law firms It would be interesting to hear if this aligns with your in-house legal department? Has your department already had success adopting AI to drive efficiencies? #inhouselegal #generalcounsel #costcontrol #AI #legalcounsel

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🚀 Emerging Practice Areas in the UK Legal Market 🏴 The UK legal market is continuously evolving, with new practice areas gaining prominence. Staying ahead of these trends can give legal professionals a significant edge. Let's explore some of the emerging areas making waves in 2024. **Tech Law**: As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, there's been a growing demand for legal expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence, data privacy, and cybersecurity. The UK's tech sector is booming, and lawyers specialised in these areas are crucial in navigating the complex legal landscape. According to Tech Nation, the UK tech industry is now worth over £180 billion. **Environmental Law**: With increasing awareness of climate change, environmental law is gaining traction. Lawyers specialising in sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental regulations are in high demand. The UK government has set ambitious targets to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, further pushing the need for expertise in this field. **Health Law**: The impacts of global health crises like COVID-19 have brought health law to the forefront. Issues around public health policy, pharmaceutical regulations, and bioethics are becoming increasingly relevant. Legal professionals in this field are essential in addressing the complexities of healthcare legislation. 🔎 At Thornton Legal, we pride ourselves on keeping up with these industry trends to better serve our candidates and clients. Interested in venturing into these emerging practice areas? Comment below or visit www.thorntonlegal.co.uk to learn more. #legal #law #uklegalmarket

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Fantastic transatlantic piece from my colleagues Katherine (UK) & Jennifer (USA), from Page Executive’s global Legal practice. “We don’t just seek great legal talent; we uncover exceptional business minds who happen to be lawyers.” If any of my network are looking for a competitive edge to head their Legal team, or similarly if you’re a seasoned in-house legal professional currently navigating your career, this article is a great read: https://lnkd.in/gGYFyKVN #PageExecutive #ConsciousLeadership #LegalLeadership #CLO #GeneralCounsel #GC

Could AI or 'deep-fake' technology provide an opportunity to talent, to license use of their likeness? And how might that work in practice? Nick Johnson of law firm Osborne Clarke talked us through the legality, as well as the potential wins or pitfalls for our industry. Listen for free: https://lnkd.in/eKAp26kd #AI #deepfake #IP #copyright #talent #licensing

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𝙏𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙏𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙇𝙖𝙬 - 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 (𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵) AI is changing the game for law firms, and the latest Clio Legal Trends Report shows just how big of a shift we’re seeing. From client expectations to operational efficiencies, technology is paving the way for the future of law. Here are some key takeaways... - 𝗔𝗜 𝗔𝗱𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗲: According to Clio’s findings, 𝟰𝟳% 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗮𝘄𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗮𝗱𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗮𝘀𝗸𝘀, and AI is helping to lighten that load. Legal professionals are leveraging technology to streamline everything from document review to case management, allowing them to focus more on strategic and client-facing activities. - 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗘𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝟲𝟲% 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 now prefer firms that use technology to improve communication. They want real-time updates, instant responses, and the convenience of digital tools. This isn’t just about speed - it's about staying relevant and responsive to today’s fast-paced world. 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮-𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: AI is also enabling firms to spot trends and optimise their approach with greater precision. It's not just about doing more work - it's about working smarter. Legal professionals who embrace these tools are using data to make informed decisions, improving outcomes for clients and firms alike. AI is no longer a bonus; it’s essential for improving service, streamlining operations, and staying competitive in today’s market. Whether you’re in litigation, corporate law, or private practice, adapting to this tech is becoming non-negotiable. If you're looking for a role where innovation and law meet, let’s connect. I’m partnering with firms at the forefront of this change, and I am keen to connect talented individuals with innovative firms across the UK. 📞: +(44) 7887 217589 📧: [email protected] To read more: https://lnkd.in/et3y-Ch7 #ThursdayTrendsInLaw #AIinLaw #LegalTech #FutureOfLaw #LegalInnovation #ClioTrends #LawandTech

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Feeling overwhelmed by the future? Many organisations struggle to plan for the next 5-10 years. Our course provides a clear model to assess your organisation's future landscape. We delved into key areas: ▶ Legal & regulatory framework ⚖️ ▶ Societal & technological shifts ▶ Workforce & economic considerations ‍ ▶ Global trends & UK-specific changes The course uses case studies to showcase effective strategic planning and its negative consequences when ignored and participants can gain ➡ A clear understanding of strategic planning ➡ Tools to kickstart strategic planning in your organization ➡ Resources for effective strategic consultation ️ See more details on the course -https://lnkd.in/ezTdyR5r Connect with our UK Bespoke team Andrea Davis and Tendai Shoniwa and explore how we can co-design to fit your organisational needs. #strategicplanning #futureproofing #leadershipdevelopment

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We talk to many General Counsel about transitioning to NED roles as part of their career growth trajectory. It can be challenging for lawyers to break in to their first opportunity. See below from my colleague Angela Floydd as to how we are engaging with the General Counsel community around this subject and I look forward to providing details of our Roundtable in November in partnership with Winmark Marsden . Let me know if you are a General Counsel of a FTSE or a privately owned company and you would be interested in this. #legalleadership #NED #careermanagement #generalcounsel

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Step confidently into the future with our webinar on overcoming legal sector challenges. Our panel of experts, including Doug Hargrove and Emma Hatto, will guide you through navigating market uncertainties to drive growth. #LegalWebinar #LegalTrends

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Hot Jobs! Hot Jobs! Hot Jobs! New opportunities are available in London Private Practice, with #EmploymentLaw leading the pack, closely followed by #TaxLaw and #CLOLaw. For more details on these roles or to schedule a confidential discussion about the market, contact [email protected] #LegalRecruitment #PrivatePracticeLawFirms #HotJobs

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Deciding between a big law firm and a High Street practice is pivotal for legal support roles. What can both offer? ✨ Pros of Big Firms: Large firms offer prestige that enhances your CV and can lead to future prospects. They boast extensive resources like advanced tech, specializing in a specific legal area and working on high-profile cases is common, alongside clear career progression and competitive compensation. 🌿 The Appeal of Small Practices: Smaller firms offer a close-knit atmosphere where contributions are valued and really make an impact. Varied responsibilities rapidly broaden legal expertise and you have the opportunity to learn directly from the seasoned pro's. The balance between work and life often feels more personalized, and you have a tangible impact on the firm's journey. 🤔 The Decision: Your choice is about personal fit. Do you prefer the structured ambition and reputation of a big firm, or the adaptable and personal growth impact of a smaller practice? Think about what aligns with your career goals and which environment will support your evolution. Both options offer unique pathways to success. #LegalCareer #BigLaw #SmallPractice #CareerChoices If you're considering your options, please reach out today: 📧[email protected] ☎️ 0121 272 7371

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⚖️ What's Driving Growth in the UK Legal Market? There's a positive buzz in the UK legal market! Keeping an eye on key factors unlocking the growth can provide valuable insights for both legal professionals and firms. One major factor is the rise in mergers and acquisitions (M&As). As organisations aim to consolidate and expand their market share, there's a high demand for legal expertise, driving the need for skilled solicitors. Another contributing factor is the increasing complexity of compliance and regulatory requirements, especially with the evolving landscape post-Brexit 🌍. Firms are now more reliant on specialised legal guidance to navigate these waters efficiently. Moreover, advancements in technology play a crucial role. LegalTech is revolutionising how services are delivered, making processes more efficient and reducing operational costs. This not only enhances service delivery but also opens up new opportunities for innovation in the legal sector. In addition, the growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion is reshaping firm culture, making the industry more attractive to top talent 🌟. At Thornton Legal, we've seen these trends firsthand, contributing to our commitment to providing high-quality recruitment services for law firms of all sizes. We're proud that 60% of new candidates receive an offer within 28 days. This reflects the dynamic nature and robust health of the UK legal market today. Curious about how these trends might affect your career or firm? Let's chat below or visit our website www.thorntonlegal.co.uk. #legal #law #UKӡ

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The new Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 makes major changes to the UK's consumer protection regime (and UK competition law). Our 3 key takeaways on the consumer aspects of the Act are below. For our take on the merger control aspects, see https://lnkd.in/eKgGWbY9, and watch out over the coming weeks for more coverage of this wide-ranging new legislation (including competition law and tech/digital markets aspects). #DMCCAct #ConsumerLaw #ConsumerProtection Read the full briefing on our website: https://lnkd.in/egTgvHMV

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Episode 8 of our Empowering Law Firm Leaders podcast is now available! Amy Bell, founder of Teal Compliance, shares her 3 compliance rules that every law firm should follow: 1.Business protection, not prevention 2. Focus on psychological safety 3. Clarity and simplicity Watch for free now to discover why compliance programmes often fail and how to ensure yours succeeds: https://lnkd.in/eNQhRAdG #legalsoftware #legaltech #lawfirm #lawyers #SMElawfirm #EmpoweringLawFirmLeaders #legalinterview #lawleadership

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Clifford Chance, the U.K.'s largest law firm by revenue, has become the latest major legal institution to soften its lockstep, as law firms continue to refine remuneration processes in order to best retain senior talent. #LegalNews #LondonLawFirms #SalaryInsight

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🌟 Evolving UK Legal Market: Are Magic Circle Firms too big? 🌟 📈 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗗𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰𝘀: The UK legal services market experienced an impressive 8.3% value growth in 2023, reaching £47.5bn. The magic circle firms have all surpassed the £2bn revenue mark, with Clifford Chance leading the pack with an 11.5% revenue rise. However, it's crucial to note that while these figures are commendable, they still lag behind their US counterparts in terms of average revenue per lawyer (RPL). 🚀 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Technology is revolutionising the way legal services are delivered too. The adoption of AI is gaining traction among UK law firms and corporate clients. This trend is not just about efficiency but also about staying competitive in a rapidly changing market. 🌍 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: London's status as a global financial hub continues to drive demand for specialists in areas like financial regulation, corporate law, and international arbitration. The emphasis on cross-border transactions and global regulatory compliance underscores the need for a global mindset and practice plan. 🔍 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: Despite the positive outlook, Magic Circle law firms face challenges such as cost pressures, increased competition, and the need to adapt to new technologies, particularly against US firms growing in the market. Read the full article below! #law #lawyers #lawfirms #lawyerlife #news #legalnews #legal #lawschool #legalcareer #legalmarketing #solicitors #lawjobs #legaljobs #hiring #jobseekers #recruitment #jobs #careers https://lnkd.in/ewYP2yXX

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In the final instalment of our weekly Q&A series with LexisNexis UK exploring the top 10 questions asked by lawyers looking to move in-house from Private Practice; Karolina Mikulicz-Church and I are considering: 💥 Can you return to private practice after moving in-house? 💥 ❇ Having made the move in-house does not preclude you from returning to private practice although it is not a frequently trodden path.   ❇ Many lawyers we work with have successfully made this move, and the experience gained whilst in-house can be invaluable when returning to private practice. ❇ It is important to recognise that transitioning from in-house to private practice may involve a different set of challenges compared to your initial move. Be ready and prepared to effectively articulate the rationale for your move and how your in-house experience adds value to private practice clients. ❇ Some lawyers find that their in-house experience enhances their marketability, while others may need to strategically position their skills and experiences to align with the expectations of law firms.   ❇ Emphasise any commercial knowledge and practical experience gained during your time in-house. Clients often value lawyers who not only understand the law but can also provide strategic advice aligned with business objectives. ❇ Be proactive, maintain a strong professional network with solid relationships, and highlight the value you bring because of your in-house experience. ❇ Recognise that every career path is unique, and the process of returning to private practice may take time.   If you’re thinking about making the move and would like a confidential discussion, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line: 📧 [email protected] 📧 [email protected]

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Interesting update this morning from City AM: Wage growth barely moves as Bank of England considers rate cuts (cityam.com) How this relates to the legal sector in my view: 1) Continued wage growth - undoubtedly seeing this in London with continuous NQ salary increases. Interested to hear how sustainable this is? 2) Slight unemployment rise - not seeing so much unemployment in the legal sector like we did in 2023, but certainly some individuals who were made redundant have struggled to find new roles 3) Number of vacancies continued decreasing for the 23rd consecutive quarter - seems pretty flat here in the legal sector in London. Certainly not seeing increases in hiring back to 2021/2022 levels. We rely on real time data to measure this. Interested to hear the thoughts of others as to what you are seeing around the UK, and how the economy can improve to drive growth? Follow my profile, or that of LHH for useful updates on recruitment. We hold some great events, including the below which we held in May, and one taking place tomorrow: https://lnkd.in/eSQak2hA LHH | Talent Talks - The Untapped Powerhouse, unleashing the potential of women in senior roles

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