He discusses how market uncertainty trickles down to the legal sector
Earlier this week, DLA Piper special counsel Nick Byrnes told us why his recognition as an NZ Lawyer Future Legal Leader meant so much to him. In the second part of this interview, he talks about why the fast-paced nature of legal work is a challenge and advises lawyers to stay away from the emails whenever they have the chance to.
What should the profession focus more on?
Finding the tools for new lawyers to flourish in what can be a high-pressure environment. Too many talented lawyers leave the profession early on.
What challenges are particularly pressing in the country’s legal industry?
The last few years have seen much uncertainty in the market, which naturally trickles down in the legal sector. This state of affairs remains, at least to some extent, ongoing. Many buyers of legal services are increasingly cost conscious. In addition, the legal landscape is changing as a result of new technology like AI. These factors (among others) are putting pressure on lawyers to find ways to differentiate themselves and demonstrate how they can add value to clients.
Another challenge is the fast-paced nature of legal practice these days. It is easy for lawyers to fall into the trap of thinking they always need to be available and responsive, even while on leave. If you are fortunate enough to have a team around you, as I am, then it's important to trust that your team will handle things when you are away and to avoid micro-managing. It's also important to put down your phone and stay away from the emails, when you have the opportunity to do so.
What are your thoughts on new technology and its impact on the legal profession?
I think there is a lot of chatter amongst lawyers about harnessing the power of new technologies. In theory, there are incredible opportunities for efficiencies to be created by the effective use of new technologies. However, the trick will be actually tap into this potential in a way that visibly delivers value to clients.
What are you looking forward to the most in the coming year?
The year is off to a busy start for me. I'm looking forward to getting stuck in with the team and the wider firm on some market leading transactions. I'm also looking forward to working with the DLA New Zealand partners, in particular my supervising partners Justin March and Mark Williamson, to continue building our real estate and construction profile in the market.
