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NLJ this week: Small firms call for tech clarity as AI looms

26 September 2025
Issue: 8132 / Categories: Legal News , Technology , Legal services , Artificial intelligence , Regulatory
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Small law firms want to embrace technology but feel lost in a maze of jargon, costs and compliance fears, writes Aisling O’Connell of the Solicitors Regulation Authority in this week's NLJ

The SRA’s new research shows that while most firms now use digital basics such as e-signatures and cloud storage, only 12% have dipped into generative AI. Lawyers cite confusion over pricing, worries about security and integration, and scepticism about fast-changing tools. Yet many see technology as vital to improve efficiency, cut costs and expand access to justice.

To close the gap, the SRA’s Innovate programme is rolling out impartial guidance, FAQs and case studies, alongside events to help firms share experiences. O’Connell argues collaboration between regulators, providers and professional bodies is critical—otherwise small firms risk being stranded on the wrong side of the digital divide.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Laytons ETL—Scott Hilton & Simon Jones

Laytons ETL—Scott Hilton & Simon Jones

City firm launches real estate corporate team to meet growing client demand

Talbots Law—Clare Regan & Lucy George

Talbots Law—Clare Regan & Lucy George

Midlands firm appoints head of real estate development

Charles Russell Speechlys—Libby Elliott

Charles Russell Speechlys—Libby Elliott

Corporate, restructuring and insolvency offering grows with partner hire

NEWS
Personal injury lawyers have urged parliamentarians to reject plans to enact an extra defence in civil cases where child sexual abuse is alleged
The Legal Services Board (LSB) has launched a post-Mazur regulatory review into litigation rights, and is fast-tracking an application from CILEX
The Court of Appeal has upheld the principle of core immunity for advocates, in an important judgment
The Bars, Faculty of Advocates and law societies of England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have come together to accuse politicians of putting lawyers at risk through their use of ‘irresponsible and dangerous’ language
The beleaguered TA6 property form has been re-released after almost a year of tests with a working group of residential conveyancers
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