The associate highlights the major skills gap persisting today when it comes to using legatech
Last week, WRP Legal associate Elma Li told Australasian Lawyer about overcoming early discouragement to still pursue a career in law despite barriers. As someone who strongly believes in what junior lawyers can bring to the table, she calls for the legal profession to bolster its investment in young talent.
In the second part of this August interview, Li explains how helping juniors develop encourages evolution and discusses the need for AI training for legal professionals.
What should the profession focus more on?
As an associate, I believe the profession should focus more on fostering better mentorship and knowledge-sharing across experience levels. Investing in the development of junior lawyers not only strengthens legal teams but also ensures the profession evolves with diverse, forward-thinking perspectives.
What challenges are particularly pressing in the country’s legal industry?
While our firm is actively investing in (and educating staff on how to properly use) legal tech, including generative AI, e-discovery tools, and data analytics, a significant skills gap persists. Less than half of legal professionals feel confident using these new technologies, highlighting a growing need for training and guidance.
What are your thoughts on new technology and its impact on the legal profession?
I believe the rise of new technology in the legal profession is both inevitable and largely positive. It’s helping us work more efficiently, reduce errors, and focus on higher-value strategic thinking - so long as we continue to use it responsibly and maintain strong ethical standards.
What are you looking forward to the most in the coming year?
In the coming year, I’m most looking forward to applying and enrolling in a Master of Intellectual Property Law. It’s an important step toward deepening my expertise and advancing my career in this specialised area.
