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30 April 2025
Issue: 8114 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Technology , Artificial intelligence , Legal services
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Barriers to tech adoption at the Bar

Barristers would like to use technology more effectively but face ‘significant’ barriers due to the unique characteristics of the profession, Bar Standards Board (BSB) research has found.

The individualised nature of self-employed barristers’ work, the absence of training, the tendency to rely on tried and trusted methods of working, and proliferation of niche areas of practice all act to inhibit tech adoption. Moreover, barristers are often too busy to try out tech, according to the BSB report, ‘Technology and innovation at the Bar research report’, published this week.

However, there has been ‘cautious’ adoption of artificial intelligence for document preparation, transcription and note-taking and use of Lexis+ AI for legal research.

BSB tech and innovation manager Henry Fingerhut said: ‘Use of technology can help to promote high quality, cost-effective legal services in an increasingly digital world.’

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Kingsley Napley—Kelly Greig & Abbie West-Kelsey

Kingsley Napley—Kelly Greig & Abbie West-Kelsey

Firm strengthens international tax team with partner and tax manager hire

Dawson Cornwell—Russell Bywater

Dawson Cornwell—Russell Bywater

Family law firm appoints new managing partner and head of matrimonial department

Forbes Solicitors—Katy Parkinson & Paul Hatton

Forbes Solicitors—Katy Parkinson & Paul Hatton

Employment and commercial offering strengthened by double hire

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A Mental Capacity Act ‘best interests’ analysis must be undertaken for all treatment decisions for incapacitated adults, the Court of Appeal has held
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