Predicted legal trends for 2022 – The future is digital

Law - 27/01/2022

The past two years have seen unprecedented changes in the way we work. One of the biggest being the increased use of technology within business.

Remote working, digital management, online practises. They’ve all experienced a huge boost, across all industries.

A lot of the predicted legal trends for 2022 are around a digital future. Firms need to step up to the plate with their use of technology. Not only so they can stay ahead of their competitors, but so they can appeal to clients looking for firms who engage in the future.

Cloud-based technology

The latest studies from the Legal Trends Report show a huge correlation between the level of technology adoption and successful firm growth. 

The demand for remote legal services is higher than ever. And firms that are meeting those demands are increasing revenue. Firms that had, on average, increased their revenues by 135% since 2013 were seen to have adopted cloud-based client-centred solutions at much greater rates than other firms.

Law firms need to adopt cloud-based solutions and technologies if they want to keep up with their competitors. Online client portals, online client intake and relationship management solutions, online payment solutions. Firms will appeal to more clients if they can start adopting these technologies and meet consumer demand.

Online reporting tools

Success is also proving to be much higher with firms adopting online reporting tools. As a whole, growing firms are twice as likely to be using reporting tools than shrinking firms.

There are plenty of benefits to going online with your systems. You get more access to more data, better accuracy and efficiency. And better insight into performance. 

Firms using online reporting tools have a much clearer picture of what’s working and what isn’t. They know what changes need to be made to attract more clients, increase revenue and encourage growth.

Meeting client needs

As with any business, firms need to ensure their change is client led. 

Since the pandemic, remote working and online strategies have become the norm. And a lot of consumers have welcomed the change. Compared to 2018, where only 23% of consumers were open to working with a lawyer remotely, 79% of consumers see the ability to work remotely with a lawyer as a key factor in choosing who to work with. 

People are now more than open to the idea – they’re actively searching for firms who offer those services.

Sustainability

The COP26 summit brought to light just how serious the climate crisis is becoming. People want to work with businesses, including law firms, who are engaging in sustainable practises.

One of the easiest ways to increase your firm’s sustainability is by going digital. Whether it’s by going paperless, offering remote services or using digital processes. A few small changes can make a big difference. Not only to your firm’s carbon footprint, but to your appeal for potential clients.

How Numero can help

At Numero, we can help with your digital accounts management. Whether it’s outsourcing with us or training your firm in automated accounts systems such as Xero or LEAP, we’ve got you covered. 

Get in touch with us today and let’s work together to make sure you firm heads into 2022 on the right foot.