A common misconception about the legal industry is that it is slow to change its long-established ways of doing things. Nonetheless, when compared to other industries, this aspect might be true to some extent – however, the legal professionals work in a way that reflects the needs of the society it serves, which is why we have seen certain trends arise in the legal industry in 2024.
That said if you are wondering about how working in the legal industry would be for 2024. Then we have put together a list of trends that will provide you a glimpse into what to expect from joining legal jobs and how the law industry has progressed over the years.
Legal technology is continuously evolving at a rapid pace. And here are some of the top legal software trends that you should know about in 2024.
Increased Focus on Cybersecurity
The number one threat to a law firm’s operations can be instigated by cyberattacks and ransomware, which is why law firms around the globe are now pivoting towards an attempt to prevent security breaches – especially as the industry is gradually shifting towards remote working.
Remote work means the integration of software and streamlining a greater part of legal work with the help of software, which has essentially caused the legal industry to recognize and implement strict cybersecurity regulations to protect themselves and their clients.
Now, law firms are integrating comprehensive data recovery and data backup solutions as a more normalized way to prevent irreversible data loss. Subsequently, many law firms are opting for managed software solutions to establish a more secure IT infrastructure.
AI – Artificial Intelligence
In 2022, we had seen AI stepping into the foreground of nearly all aspects of life, and 2023 has only contributed to its developments. The availability of popular AI tools, such as ChatGPT, is a fine example of how AI has taken the world by storm – and the legal industry is no exception.
Now, AI systems have been specifically tailored for the legal sector. For instance, the AI tool AI Contract Assist has the potential to boost the overall productivity of a law firm, which is achieved via the automation process of legal research, discovery, and contract management.
You can expect law firms to entrust a major portion of their output to creative AI machines – not only in 2024 – but also beyond.
A Changed Approach to Legal Technology
Firstly, you will want to know that the approach to legal technology in 2024 has changed. Now legal firms are embracing hybrid work environments where there has been a nearly 30% drop in the number of firms that go to the office full-time.
And you might have guessed it right – this shift is essentially powered by legal technology while simultaneously keeping the operations at the law firms streamlined. Now, law firms use unique software solutions to promote a hybrid work approach.
Nonetheless, there are potential challenges, which means that some of the investments might be going to waste because some firms aren’t using technology to its full potential.
A Boost in the Usage of Legal Tech
In 2024, lawyers are increasingly integrating technology into their daily work, which means that most lawyers spend at least half of their working day using technology. That said, as technology is becoming a bigger part of the workflow, law firms are increasingly seeking experts to help them set up and integrate new solutions.
A great percentage of law firms state that they are working with an IT partner to help them integrate the latest technology.
Nothing Goes Wrong with Basics
When it comes to the most popular types of legal technology, you will want to know that many law firms are still integrating the basics. That said, the most commonly used software by law firms includes the following:
Microsoft Office Suite – most people use this cloud-based productivity platform, which includes email, document creation, and more, to effectively work on daily legal processes.
Video Conferencing Platform – this platform is used to improve client and internal communication while working remotely.
Legal Research Tools – legal research tools are used by legal professionals when they prepare for court appearances and more.
Use of Case Management Software
Another tech trend that lawyers should look out for in 2024 is case management software, which is essentially used to boost the law firm’s growth. Law firms are now using case management tools that streamline the entire legal workflow.
The use of case management software is still growing in popularity as more law firms are using case management tools. Stand-alone law firms are less likely to invest in this tool – but – the popularity of case management software grows as the firm size increases.
The law firms that are dedicatedly investing in case management are reporting an increase in productivity, profitability, and client satisfaction.
