The senior associate also fills us in on her exciting holiday plans
The advent of technology has had good and bad impacts on the legal profession. On the one hand, it has made things easier for lawyers – but on the other hand, it has made it difficult for them to step away from work communications.
In the second part of this interview, Saunders Robinson Brown senior associate Brie Piggott tells why lawyers need to “switch off” in order to be at their best, and why demystifying legal needs to be a priority for the profession.
What should the profession focus more on?
Demystifying the legal processes and jargon for clients. When we engage with clients, it is often their first time stepping foot into a lawyer’s office and it can be overwhelming and confusing. I think plain language, clear explanations and managing expectations can help clients feel more in control, ultimately leading to a better resolution that they are happy and comfortable with.
What challenges are particularly pressing in the country’s legal industry?
The high levels of burnout and stress, and an inability to switch off. The nature of our work often means emotional intensity and a constant pressure to perform, and fast. Now that we all have our phones at our fingertips, emails are flying at all hours of the day.
It is important that in order to operate as best we can as lawyers there is also that crucial time of the day where we switch off completely and do something for ourselves that has nothing to do with work!
What are your thoughts on new technology and its impact on the legal profession?
I think it is brilliant. It has the power to support us and make our work even more efficient (rather than overtake us). The courts in New Zealand are rolling out a new initiative - Te Au Reka, which is a digital case flow management system, starting with the Family Court next year. This will be exciting to see a better flow in the court process, no more heavy paper files, and better access to justice.
What are you looking forward to the most in the coming year?
Having my first white Christmas in Poland at my uncle’s place and following that up with a safari in Africa! After that, getting back into routine and making new connections in Christchurch and in the wider family law community.
