Global firm rolls out innovation network

Eversheds Sutherland has rolled out an online network to enable its global team to contribute – and collaborate on - innovative ideas.

The IdeaDrop platform includes a mobile and web app that allows users to drop an idea which others can then comment on, share, like, and rate. Eversheds Sutherland is the first legal practice to make it available globally.

“Innovation has always been an integral part of our business and we have a long-standing and strong reputation in this area,” said co-CEO Lee Ranson “As our scale and reach grows we want to continue to drive innovation across the business globally, harnessing the creativity of our people to help deliver our strategy.”

All of the firm’s employees across 66 offices in 32 countries are being encouraged to start sharing their ideas using the platform.

Hong Kong arbitration challenged by perceived Beijing influence
Arbitration in Hong Kong should be considered along with Singapore, London, New York, and Paris, without fear of influence from Beijing.

That’s the message from the head of the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre who says the perception that the special region lacks independence is a challenge.

Speaking to the Law Society Gazette, Sarah Grimmer said that parties using the HKIAC choose their own arbitrators and Chinese nationals do not preside over cases involving a Chinese party.

She said that thinking that Beijing has influence over cases was “fantastical.”

English law firms a month away from new transparency rules
Law firms in England & Wales will be required to be more transparent about the fees they charge under new rules.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority’s requirement for firms to publish price and service information on their websites come into effect a month today (6th December).

They will also be required to ensure that details of their complaints procedures are made available online.

Firms will be able to download and display a new SRA digital badge, which is expected to become mandatory early in 2019.

Not all services are subject to the new rules but common ones such as debt recovery, employment tribunals, conveyancing, and probate are all included.

“Publishing information on price, services and protections will not only benefit the public, but will also help law firms win new business. Research shows that people struggle to find clear information about the services firms offer and think using a solicitor is more expensive than it actually is,” said SRA chief executive Paul Philip.