Technology is Empowering Attorneys and Law Firms

While 2024 has brought financial success for many law firms, deeper challenges such as talent turnover and resource inefficiencies continue to impact long-term growth. Addressing these issues requires strategic adoption of technology to streamline workflows, meet evolving expectations, and ensure sustained success in a competitive market.

A prominent AM Law 250 firm has been experiencing this dilemma in 2024. With remarkable financial success in the first 6 months, it was a surprise to the firm’s leadership that the firm was grappling with deeper, structural challenges that threatened its long-term success. A growing wave of talent turnover was starting to plague the company as attorneys were increasingly being drawn to smaller/boutique firms that were offering hybrid work environments and had more potential for career advancement. As one departing associate put it, “I love the work here, but the lack of flexibility and professional growth made it unsustainable.”

So how does technology play a role you may ask? It does so on two fronts:

Reduces Administrative Burdens –

Many attorneys spend over five hours weekly on administrative tasks like scheduling, document management, and internal communications—time that could be better spent on client advocacy and legal strategy. Workflow tools automate these repetitive processes, ensuring that administrative responsibilities are delegated effectively to support staff. This frees attorneys to focus on high-value tasks, improving productivity and client outcomes.

Retains Top Talent Through Technology –

The legal talent landscape is evolving, with attorneys seeking hybrid work options, clear career progression, and meaningful assignments. Firms that fail to meet these expectations risk losing their top performers, weakening both workforce stability and their competitive edge.

Data suggests that 25% of equity partners have identified the absence of hybrid work, while 23% have cited insufficient professional development as the main reasons for leaving their firms.

The Path Forward for Legal Practice:

Technology is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity for law firms looking to thrive. By reducing inefficiencies, aligning with talent expectations, and improving operational workflows, firms can better serve their clients and support their teams.

The question for law firms now is not whether to embrace technology, but how quickly they can act to gain a competitive advantage.

Above the Law, 2024