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FeatureWhen will legal tech investment pay off?
Law firms are spending more than ever on technology – but productivity remains low
FeatureHow to challenge behaviour
Authors of the recently updated Risk and Compliance Questions and Answers, Rebecca Atkinson and Tracey Calvert, answer a common question relating to challenging behaviour
Feature10 steps for managing client expectations
Parvien Akhtar shares her simple checklist for managing client expectations
FeatureDealing with third-party delays
The Legal Ombudsman outlines its approach to third-party delays
FeaturePreserving law firm cultures in the age of hybrid working
The past few years have ushered in sweeping changes to the way we work – and with it, the way we approach law firm culture
FeatureProtecting premises from terrorist attacks
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 had royal assent in April 2025. Warren Gordon, Rosalind Morgan and Lukas Rootman look at how it will affect those responsible for relevant premises and events
OpinionSafety in numbers
Abby Winkworth reflects on the results of the Financial Benchmarking Survey 2025 and the practical insights included in this edition of the magazine
FeatureCounting the cost
Tim Kidd explores the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s recent consultation on its proposed changes to the handling of client money
FeatureWeighing up the data
Author of the Financial Benchmarking Survey 2025 report, Ian Johnson, summarises its key points
FeaturePutting wellbeing first
Elizabeth Rimmer offers practical advice for improving staff wellbeing in your firm
FeatureA thriving environment
Martin Whitehorn discusses making your organisation a place where people want to progress
FeatureStick with it
Bola Gibson suggests practical ways to overcome diversity, equity and inclusion fatigue, both in your firm and the wider profession
FeatureThe last post
Sarah Harrison and Graeme Menzies offer practical tips on successfully managing the retirement process
FeatureThe apprentice
Diana Bentley talks to firms about how they manage apprenticeships and the recruitment and diversity benefits these schemes bring
FeatureSharing the burden
Andrew Allen examines what law firms are doing to tackle increased employers’ national insurance rates and improve margins
FeatureFive-star candidates
Jonathan Worrell presents five recommendations to help firms ensure the success of their SQE candidates
FeatureIn praise of regulation
Chris Marston advocates embracing regulation and the protection it offers you and your clients
FeatureHow to define your firm’s brand
In a crowded legal market, a strong brand will set your firm apart. Oliver Eardley, principal marketing consultant at digital marketing agency Add People, shares six key strategies to define your brand, build trust and attract clients
Feature“You have been banished!” Lessons learned from the Traitors
Can you tell if someone is lying? A team-building exercise inspired by the Traitors offers some interesting insights, writes James Brown
FeatureCulture crafting: insights from the top 100 law firms
Lara Squires looks at what we can learn from the values of the top 100 law firms
FeatureBook smart
Simeon Hance, editor of PS magazine, and the library team share some of the benefits that the Law Society library can offer members
FeatureBumps in the road
Douglas Russell and Sally Jones give their views on how law firms can overcome 2025’s economic and regulatory hurdles with confidence
FeatureSpreading the word
Gav Ward looks at the opportunities for using artificial intelligence in content marketing and the potential risks of doing so
FeatureAdvance planning
Law firms need clearly defined ways of managing the careers of their lawyers, especially senior staff members. Diana Bentley looks at what options are available for those wanting to progress
FeatureAutomating AML
Using technology to improve anti-money laundering processes isn’t just about efficiency – it’s about creating robust, future-proof compliance frameworks, says Katarina Pranjic
FeatureStay on message
Melissa Davis outlines how to build a successful brand by harnessing the relationship between internal law firm culture and public relations
FeatureOwning up to mistakes
Paul Bennett, Jonathon Bray and Alexis Hearnden discuss what to do when mistakes are made
FeatureLifelong learning
Lucy Trevelyan speaks to Mike Leeman about his experience as managing partner at Bell Lamb & Joynson
FeatureMission accomplished?
Chris Marston looks back at the October 2024 professional indemnity insurance renewal experience
FeatureStarting a new law firm (Part 4): Applying to the SRA
In the final part of Armstrong Watson’s series on starting your own firm, Andy Poole explains how to apply to the SRA for authorisation
FeatureDominating Google search results: a blueprint for legal professionals
David Gilmore shares five tips for improving your firm’s search engine optimisation
FeatureStarting a new law firm (Part 3): Tax
In the third part of Armstrong Watson’s series on starting up your own firm, Andy Poole discusses the major tax matters you will have to consider
OpinionFinal thoughts…
As he prepares to step down as chair of the Leadership and Management Section committee, Paul Bennett reflects on what he’s learned during his three-and-a-half-year tenure
FeaturePeace of mind
Kerry Slater and Stuart Munro discuss the importance of a psychologically safe workplace
FeatureOpen to all
FBC Manby Bowdler is at the forefront of moves to open a career in law to people from all backgrounds. Charlotte Clode explains why the award-winning firm is so committed to breaking down barriers
FeatureGo your own way
Lucy Trevelyan speaks to Dave Matthews about why having fun and being authentic are core values for his firm
FeatureCulture club
How do you create an effective business development culture? Douglas McPherson offers some steps for success
FeatureRain check
Bob Spence explores the impact of artificial intelligence on business development and client relationships
FeatureWinning ways
Sue Bramall, who has participated in several award panels for law firm marketing, shares her top tips for success
FeatureQuestion time
Diana Bentley speaks to legal recruiters about how law firms can improve their interview processes
FeatureCall of duty
Paul Bennett discusses new obligations around preventing sexual harassment in the workplace
FeatureChallenging behaviour
Zoë Allen-Robinson looks at the regulator’s requirement for managers in law firms to challenge unfair behaviour
FeatureClients and their costs: understanding the risks
As client expectations increase, managing the associated costs is more vital than ever
FeatureStaffing law firms – is this due for an overhaul?
How can firms improve their retention rates while keeping costs low? Law Society partner Travelers looks at how to manage the risks
FeatureStarting a new law firm (Part 2): Structure
Andy Poole looks at what business structure to adopt when setting up your own law firm
FeatureDriving climate action in your firm
Nicky Sinker discusses the important role law firms play in driving climate action
OpinionHeart of the issues
Paul Bennett discusses the practical insight included in this edition, from how to improve your firm’s complaints procedure to using technology to stay ahead of the curve
FeatureBalancing act
Should firms be taking a stricter stance on homeworking? James Brown examines the current consensus
FeatureWatching brief
The number of complaints made to the Legal Ombudsman is on the rise. Diana Bentley investigates
FeatureCharm offensive
Lauren Bridgen shares Simmons & Simmons’ journey of setting up its client programme and how this has helped drive its growth strategy
FeatureSurveying the scene
Ian Johnson, author of the Financial Benchmarking Survey 2024, shares some of the key findings from this year’s report
FeatureCalling the shots
The transition from fee earner to leader in a law firm involves a significant leap – one that demands a unique set of skills. Michelle Howard shares some tips for success
FeatureThe IT crowd
Technology has been developing at breakneck speed in recent years. Rachel Roche discusses what your firm can do to keep up
FeatureMerge and conquer
Andrew Roberts discusses how to achieve successful integration once a merger is complete
FeatureCrisis averted
Social media has made it easier than ever for negative stories to spread. Reputation management specialist Nick McAleenan sets out what to consider if your firm is under fire
FeatureStarting a new law firm (Part 1): What do you need to consider?
In the first of a four-part series, Andy Poole outlines what your top considerations should be when starting a law firm
FeatureDUIs – a regulatory matter?
In recent actions by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), drink-driving offences have become significantly more costly for solicitors, serving as a stark reminder of the regulator’s expected standards around personal conduct
FeatureStaying alert to digital burnout
Philippa Hann discusses the impact technology has had on productivity and the ways we communicate
FeatureChanges to flexible working laws
Siân Riley, from Law Society partner Access Legal, reviews the recent changes to flexible working laws and outlines the key action you should take to remain compliant
OpinionMaking our mark
Paul Bennett reflects on the results of the 2024 Financial Benchmarking Survey, and the practical insight included in this edition of the magazine
FeatureFor the record
Continuing competence is essential to providing high-quality legal services and maintaining public trust in the profession. Fiona Anthony shares the steps you can take to ensure you are satisfying the SRA’s requirement
FeatureAll things equal
Jane Hallas demonstrates how to create an effective people plan to support and improve equality, diversity and inclusion in your firm
FeatureRise and fall?
Interest rates have finally risen, and, with them, the potential for law firms to profit. But what are the risks you need to be aware of?
FeatureBridging the gap
Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week in May, Nick Bloy assesses the impact of overworking on the wellbeing of those in the legal sector
FeatureTalent contest
Law firms are under greater pressure than ever to recruit and retain talented lawyers. Diana Bentley speaks to various firms about their experiences
FeatureThe powers that be
Automatic fines and fixed penalties for non-compliance are about to become the norm. Paul Bennett outlines the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s enforcement policy, and considers what it will mean in terms of risk management
FeatureTrust the process
Susan Glenholme talks to Simeon Hance about growing up in Kenya, becoming an equity partner at the age of 29, and the importance of trust in a law firm
FeatureGreen light
Sue Bramall speaks to Martin Bunch and Natalie Cooksey about the success of their firms’ environmental strategies, and why being transparent about your own initiatives is vital to avoid greenwashing
FeatureRunning for cover
Jenny Screech provides an update on the current position for professional indemnity insurance ahead of this year’s renewal seasons
FeatureRecipe for success
How can you successfully grow your firm and extend client relationships? Robin Dicks considers the key building blocks and obstacles
FeatureCyberattacks: Protecting your firm’s data
Following the recent cyberattacks at CTS, Lindsay Hill, CEO of Law Society partner Mitigo, asks how to protect your firm’s data when using a managed service provider
FeatureHow can technology help your firm succeed?
Law Society partner, STAR Professions, considers the benefits of embracing technology in your firm
FeatureValue creation and AI – a race to the bottom?
For the better part of 12 months, artificial intelligence has been the talk of the town. Though beneficial, many have their concerns about what AI could mean for the future of the legal sector
FeatureCyber insurance and the legal profession
As cyber fraud becomes increasingly prevalent, it’s vital that all firms take the necessary steps to protect themselves. Ryan Senior, senior vice-president at Paragon International Insurance Brokers, explains what action you should take
OpinionNew beginnings
Paul Bennett sets out how law firms may take advantage of an upturn in the economy and how managers can showcase their skills
FeatureCalm after the storm
Douglas Russell and Sally Jones, at Law Society partner Armstrong Watson, give their advice on how to navigate the best course to more stable economic times for your firm and clients
FeatureBetter times ahead?
Are there better times ahead for professional indemnity insurance? Chris Marston, chief executive of LawNet, explains why he thinks this is likely
FeatureTraining ground
Is a new era of training and supervision under way in the legal sector? Diana Bentley investigates
FeatureWinning formula
How can you win clients in a cost-sensitive economy? Emma Egerton-Jones investigates
FeatureEye on the prize
Joan Scott speaks to Dan Gilbert about the challenges she has faced in her career, and how she set up a staff network from scratch
FeatureBecoming an influencer
Michelle Howard shares the three phrases that will help you demonstrate your value and gain partner influence
FeatureBanking on success
Anna Hart, head of legal for the Bank of China’s operations in the UK, describes the transition to working in-house she made five years ago, and why she is all the happier for it
FeatureMaking a mark
Tim Newsome gives a brief overview of how trademarks work and how they can apply to various features of the web
FeatureAI part III: Advising clients who use artificial intelligence
In the final part of her series on artificial intelligence (AI), Kelly Fermont considers the role we have as practitioners in advising clients who use AI technologies
FeatureTaking on the ESG challenge
ESG is more than just a buzzword – it’s the way all businesses are being encouraged to operate. Neil Lloyd explains what his firm is doing to meet the latest ESG standards, and the challenges and opportunities these bring
FeatureThe benefits of specialist VAT loans
Managing cashflow and tax liability is one of the most significant hurdles for law firms. Law Society partner, STAR Professions, looks at how specialist VAT loans can help ease the burden
FeatureBurn notice
Philippa Hann provides some tips on how to manage staff burnout and a busy workload in your firm
FeatureProfitable partnerships
Andrew Allen considers the upcoming basis period change and its impact on law firm partnerships
FeatureMemories of merger
James Libson speaks to Simeon Hance about his career, the challenges of being a firm manager, and the benefits of merging with a tech-savvy firm
FeatureWorking it
Employee ownership of businesses is on the rise. But will law firms embrace the structure, and what does it offer? Diana Bentley investigates
FeatureMind over matter
Kerry Slater reflects on the impact changes to SRA guidance will have on resilience, psychological safety, and the wellbeing of legal professionals
FeatureFlexibility in practice
Nicola Darfoor, corporate communications manager at the Law Society, speaks to members at law firms about their experience of flexible working
OpinionWays of working
Paul Bennett reflects on the key issues that firm leaders face, and outlines what this edition of the magazine provides
FeatureTelling tales
Brendan Pittaway outlines how and why you should use public relations to build your business
FeatureRegulating behaviour
Jessica Clay and Lucinda Soon summarise how the SRA can regulate solicitors’ behaviour in and out of the workplace, and analyse in what circumstances they will choose to take action
FeatureConsultancy matters
Lucy Trevelyan looks at the increasing popularity of the consultancy model of providing legal services
FeatureReady to launch
Sally Thompson and Sue Bramall share their step-by-step approach to the rebranding and relaunch of a new website at a law firm
FeatureOpening up
Managing your mental health in a demanding work environment can be incredibly challenging. For Mental Health Awareness Week, three solicitors open up to Dan Gilbert about their experiences with stress, pressure and mental ill health in private practice
FeatureExit strategy
Jeff Zindani discusses how to ensure the successful sale of a legal business, the questions to first ask yourself, and ways to ensure both the best price and a lasting legacy for your hard work
FeatureGrowing gains
Legal business development is based on good client relationships but lawyers all too frequently waste opportunities to build meaningful connections. Robin Dicks explains the right questions to ask to refine your growth strategy and win more work
FeatureFour days a week
In a recent trial many businesses opted to adopt a four-day work week. Natalie Moore explains how it works for her conveyancing firm
FeatureThe generation game
Roman Kubiak looks at how artificial intelligence is likely to change the face of the legal landscape
FeatureAI part II: What should we solve for?
In the second article of a three-part series, Kelly Fermont gives her quick-fire introduction to the world of AI
FeatureFreelance solicitors – new risk protections
With many solicitors now taking the freelance route to practice, Travelers Europe have developed an insurance product to mitigate their risk. Here, they outline how it works.
FeatureAI part I: Welcome to the world of artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence has been a talking point for some time, but how is it affecting the legal profession?
OpinionLeading by example
Paul Bennett reflects on the key issues that firm leaders face, and what this edition of the magazine provides
FeatureTime change
Changes to the Legal Ombudsman Scheme Rules came into effect on 1 April 2023. Paul Wightman outlines what to expect
FeatureMaking diversity count
Raphael Mokades explains how larger firms are able to recruit a more diverse range of applicants and gives some practical advice that will help small, medium sized and regional firms to do the same
FeaturePreventative measures
Paul Bennett asks if the regulator and law firms do enough to prevent rule breaches?
FeatureAhead of the curve
Law Society partner LEAP Legal Software sets out how you can use technology to generate long-term growth for your legal business
FeatureTransforming teams
Peter Scott looks at how to identify objectives for your teams and how to enhance performance to meet them
FeatureIncreasing inclusion
In this case study Clifford Chance outlines how they adopted and applied a global inclusion strategy in the UK
FeatureRenewal ready
Ryan Senior and Piers Winton from Paragon International discuss the upcoming professional indemnity insurance renewal and outline how to mitigate your risks
FeatureEconomic crime scene
Jennifer Harper provides an update on the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill, part of the government’s strategy to tackle economic crime and improve transparency over corporate entities
OpinionFull steam ahead
Paul Bennett reflects on some of the key issues firm leaders faced in 2022 and details what’s on the horizon for the year ahead
FeatureSurviving a storm
Douglas Russell and Sally Jones, at Law Society partner Armstong Watson LLP, give their advice on how to manage your firm through difficult economic times
FeatureUnderground banking
Laurence Howland does a deep dive into Chinese underground banking, outlining how it works and how the risk impact on law firms in the UK can be mitigated
FeatureDisability inclusion
Reena Parmar shares her experience in the law as a disabled woman from an ethnic minority and a lower socio-economic background, and why intersectional role models are so important
FeatureThe personal touch
Victoria Moffatt explains the importance of having a personal brand, and how to get started with building one
FeatureThe role of compliance
As a recent survey reveals that the increasing complexity of compliance is a top concern for more than three-quarters of lawyers, Lucy Trevelyan talks to William Robins, director of compliance and operations at Keystone Law, about the challenges he faces in his role
FeatureJoined-up thinking
Andrew Roberts gives his analysis of the current state of the law firm merger market
FeatureTrailblazing solicitors
It’s been 100 years since the first women qualified as solicitors in England and Wales. To celebrate this milestone, Dana Denis-Smith looks back at where it all began – with the first women admitted to the roll
FeatureMental note
Following on from recent high-profile tribunal cases involving junior lawyers, Manda Banerji looks at the role of mental health in regulatory outcomes
FeatureFollow the money
Julie Norris outlines key recent developments relating to the regulation of money laundering in the legal sector and the implications for legal practitioners and law firms
FeatureAll in this together
Melinda Giles speaks to Simeon Hance about how switching to an employee ownership trust model helped to secure the future of her firm and enhanced social mobility
FeatureHabits for good leaders
Thom Dennis outlines the habits that every good leader should adopt, particularly in uncertain business and economic times
FeatureUnder sanction
With the announcement that the SRA will be scrutinising firms for sanctions compliance, Anita Clifford considers what firms should be doing to ensure they are meeting the requirements