In March 2024, the Queensland Law Society (QLS) collaborated with its Innovation Committee to conduct the inaugural Law, Technology, and AI Business Survey. This survey aimed to understand the evolving landscape of legal practice in Queensland, particularly focusing on the integration and impact of technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), within the legal sector. With over 400 respondents, the survey offers a comprehensive overview of the current challenges, opportunities, and concerns facing legal practitioners and firms in the region.
Challenges in the Legal Sector
The survey uncovered several pressing issues that legal practitioners face today, with 48% of respondents identifying the challenge of meeting expectations—whether those of clients, practitioners, or staff—as a primary concern. The pressure to meet these expectations is closely tied to other significant challenges, such as leveraging existing technology effectively, addressing cybersecurity threats, and managing staff recruitment and retention.
Recruitment and Staffing Woes
Staff recruitment and retention emerged as a critical issue, particularly for small and regional law firms. Many respondents noted that the difficulty in attracting and retaining skilled professionals is compounded by limited incentives, especially in rural and remote areas. The challenge is further exacerbated by a lack of qualified candidates willing to relocate to these regions, despite the high demand for legal services.
The Law Council of Australia has been actively advocating for solutions to this problem. In December 2023, it published a position paper titled “Helping Legal Practitioners Working in Rural, Regional, and Remote Areas Reduce Debt and Indexation Relief.” The paper underscores the need for targeted initiatives to support legal professionals in these underserved areas, a sentiment echoed by QLS in its 2024 Call for All statement.
Financial Strain and Economic Challenges
The survey also highlighted the financial pressures legal practices face in the current economic climate. Small firms, in particular, are struggling to maintain profitability while meeting the growing demands of their clients. The economic strain is further complicated by the rising costs associated with cybersecurity measures and the implementation of new technologies.
Cybersecurity Concerns
Cybersecurity remains a significant concern for legal practitioners, with 42% of respondents indicating a need for more resources on cybersecurity risks and mitigation strategies. As law firms continue to digitize their operations and handle sensitive client information, the threat of cyberattacks looms large, necessitating a proactive approach to safeguarding data.
The Impact of Technology and AI
The integration of technology and AI in legal practice is both a challenge and an opportunity. While these technologies have the potential to streamline operations and enhance efficiency, many firms struggle with the practical aspects of implementation. Respondents expressed concerns about the time and resources required to adopt new technologies effectively, as well as the need for sufficient in-house expertise.
Barriers to Technological Adoption
Time constraints were cited as the primary barrier to addressing technological challenges, with 58% of respondents identifying it as a significant issue. Other barriers included a lack of in-house expertise (22%) and resistance to change or the advancement of new ideas (21%). The survey results suggest that while legal professionals recognize the benefits of technology, the practical challenges of implementation often outweigh the perceived advantages.
Training and Job Readiness
Another critical area of concern is the job readiness of law graduates and early-career lawyers. Respondents reported an increased burden in training junior staff, with many citing difficulties in finding candidates with the necessary experience, particularly in business development skills. This issue is compounded by limited resources for training and the high turnover rate of trained staff.
In response to these concerns, QLS has launched the New Lawyers Program, a three-module series designed to support new graduates entering the legal profession. This program aims to bridge the skills gap identified in the Employment Readiness Study commissioned by QLS and the Centre for Legal Education.
Looking Forward: Opportunities for Improvement
The survey results have prompted QLS to consider the development and provision of targeted resources to address the areas where legal practitioners need the most support. By focusing on cybersecurity, recruitment and retention, and the effective use of technology, QLS aims to equip its members with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the challenges of modern legal practice.
Support for Regional and Remote Legal Practices
One of the key takeaways from the survey is the need for continued support for legal practices in regional and remote areas. The challenges faced by these firms—particularly in attracting and retaining talent—highlight the importance of targeted initiatives that address the unique needs of these communities.
Cybersecurity Resources
Given the widespread concern about cybersecurity, QLS is exploring ways to provide its members with more comprehensive resources on this topic. This could include training programs, best practice guidelines, and tools for assessing and mitigating cybersecurity risks.
Leveraging Technology
As technology continues to evolve, legal practitioners must stay ahead of the curve. The survey results suggest a need for more accessible resources and training on how to leverage existing technologies effectively. By providing practical guidance on the adoption and integration of new tools, QLS can help its members enhance their practice and better serve their clients.
Conclusion
The results of the 2024 Law, Technology, and AI Business Survey offer valuable insights into the current state of the legal sector in Queensland. While challenges such as staff recruitment, cybersecurity, and technological adoption are significant, they also present opportunities for growth and improvement. By addressing these issues head-on and providing targeted support, QLS is committed to helping its members navigate the complexities of modern legal practice.
As the legal profession continues to evolve, the integration of technology and AI will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of law. By staying informed and proactive, legal practitioners can ensure that they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the 21st century.