The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the landscape of legal staffing in ways that were once unimaginable. As law firms and legal departments adjust to the new normal, they have been forced to adapt to remote work and virtual hiring, while also dealing with changing needs and expectations. Navigating the post-COVID world requires a new approach, and legal staffing agencies are no exception.
Remote work has become a necessity in the post-COVID world, with many law firms and legal departments having to embrace it to continue their operations. According to a report by the National Law Journal, “83% of law firms surveyed have said that they are working remotely, and 60% expect that they will continue to work remotely even after the pandemic is over.” This shift towards remote work has impacted legal staffing agencies, which have had to change their approach to hiring and recruitment.
Virtual hiring has become the new norm for legal staffing agencies. This allows them to screen and interview candidates from all over the world, opening up a wider pool of potential hires. “We have been able to connect with candidates from different regions and time zones, which was not possible before,” says Jacqueline Buickians, CEO of JBA International. “Virtual hiring has allowed us to be more efficient and reach more candidates than ever before.”
The changing needs of law firms and legal departments have also impacted legal staffing agencies. As businesses continue to adjust to the post-COVID world, they are looking for lawyers and legal professionals who can adapt and thrive in a remote or hybrid work environment. This has led to an increased demand for legal professionals with experience in remote work and technology.
As the legal industry continues to adapt to the post-COVID world, lawyers and law firms must also capitalize on the changing climate. “The post-COVID world presents an opportunity for lawyers and law firms to be more efficient and effective in their work,” says Jane Goodwin, a legal consultant. “Remote work has shown that lawyers can work from anywhere and still provide high-quality legal services. Law firms that embrace this new way of working will have a competitive advantage.”
However, navigating fully remote and hybrid work can present its own set of challenges. A survey by the American Bar Association found that “62% of lawyers are concerned about maintaining productivity while working remotely, and 59% are concerned about the impact on work-life balance.” While remote work can provide flexibility and increased efficiency, it can also lead to burnout and work-life imbalance if not managed properly.
There are also upsides and downsides to each type of work: hybrid, remote, and in-office. For example, while remote work can provide flexibility and cost savings, it can also lead to isolation and communication challenges. “Remote work can be challenging because you don’t have the same level of interaction and collaboration as you do in an office,” says Jacqueline.
The rise of remote trials and counsel is another aspect of the post-COVID world that lawyers and law firms must navigate. The pandemic has led to a significant increase in virtual trials and hearings, which require a different set of skills and technology. “Virtual trials and hearings have become the norm in the post-COVID world, and lawyers must be prepared to adapt to this new reality,” says Jane.
In conclusion, the post-COVID world has presented challenges and opportunities for legal staffing agencies, lawyers, and law firms. Remote work and virtual hiring have become the new norm, and legal professionals must adapt to thrive in this new environment. While there are upsides and downsides to each type of work, lawyers and law firms that embrace this new way of working will have a competitive advantage in the post-COVID world. As the legal industry continues to evolve, it is important to stay informed and prepared to navigate the new normal.