Kennedys to launch virtual defence lawyer in Australia

Almost two years after it launched in the UK for the personal injury market, Kennedys is adapting its AI-powered virtual defence lawyer for new markets and new lines.

Australia is one of the countries where KLAiM will be rolled-out along with Kong Kong, the US, and Bermuda.

The web-based platform draws on the experience of the global firm’s lawyers, but it says that clients using the service have settled 80% of their claims without the need for a lawyer.

“Although seemingly counter-intuitive for a law firm, we believe that this approach offers business benefits for both our clients and ourselves,” said partner Richard West, Head of Innovation at Kennedys. “This has helped us to continue to build relationships with our clients and to also gain additional market share; while helping all new clients to also rapidly reduce their reliance on all lawyers."

KLAiM features built-in templates and guidance notes that help users move through the litigation process via a straightforward workflow, with an automated diary and traffic light system. It also auto-populates and generates all the relevant court documentation.

Norton Rose Fulbright appoints global chair
The chair of Norton Rose Fulbright in Canada has been appointed as global chair, leading the firm’s global supervisory board.

Walied Soliman succeeds Tricia Hobson whose term expired by rotation on 31 December 2018. He will focus on developing Norton Rose Fulbright’s cross-border M&A and funds practice.

Soliman is a long-term advocate of diversity and this will also be a key focus for the new global chair.

“Walied is a leading practitioner in the Canadian M&A, takeover defence, complex reorganizations and shareholder activism market. His extensive experience will be invaluable as we grow these practices worldwide,” commented global chief executive Peter Martyr.

Pinsent Masons expands with new Frankfurt office
International firm Pinsent Masons has opened an office in Frankfurt, its third in Germany.

The office will focus on the technology, energy and real estate sectors initially as well developing a financial services offering.

It launches with 6 partners including Dr Volker Balda, former KPMG Law co-head of global corporate law; and Hogan Lovells’ former global copyright group leader Dr Nils Rauer.