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26 September 2025
Issue: 8132 / Categories: Legal News , Technology , Legal services , Artificial intelligence , Regulatory
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NLJ this week: Small firms call for tech clarity as AI looms

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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

Clarke Willmott—Matthew Roach

Clarke Willmott—Matthew Roach

Partner joins commercial property team in Taunton office

Farrer & Co—Richard Lane

Farrer & Co—Richard Lane

Londstanding London firm appoints new senior partner

Bird & Bird—Sue McLean

Bird & Bird—Sue McLean

Commercial team in London welcomes technology specialist as partner

NEWS
What safeguards apply when trust corporations are appointed as deputy by the Court of Protection? 
Disputing parties are expected to take part in alternative dispute resolution (ADR), where this is suitable for their case. At what point, however, does refusing to participate cross the threshold of ‘unreasonable’ and attract adverse costs consequences?
When it comes to free legal advice, demand massively outweighs supply. 'Millions of people are excluded from access to justice as they don’t have anywhere to turn for free advice—or don’t know that they can ask for help,' Bhavini Bhatt, development director at the Access to Justice Foundation, writes in this week's NLJ
When an ex-couple is deciding who gets what in the divorce or civil partnership dissolution, when is it appropriate for a third party to intervene? David Burrows, NLJ columnist and solicitor advocate, considers this thorny issue in this week’s NLJ
NLJ's latest Charities Appeals Supplement has been published in this week’s issue
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