The Lawyers Weekly legal technology update

It's been a difficult year for Australia's largest law firms, but at AllensA Arthur Robinson, chief executive partner Michael Rose believes that leading lawyers through tough times involves also being ready for recovery.

Challenges in the economy have cast a spotlight on the need for proper management in law firms, writes Bronwyn Pott, and it's unlikely to come from the managing partner.

Sole practice presents unique challenges and opportunities for an increasing number of lawyers -- but there are support networks available to assist sole practitioners.

The billable hour is so ingrained in the mindset of law firms that it will be extremely difficult to unravel it from the profession, says Ron Baker - despite the fact that it is fundamentally flawed. He speaks to Angela Priestley

A changing economy alongside enhanced competition from emerging legal business models mean well-established law firms need to step up to the plate when it comes to their brand strategy, writes Sue-Ella McDowall

In the space of a few short years, the word "outsourcing" has gone from being a dirty word to a buzz word within international legal circles, writes Laura MacIntyre. The GFC has had one knock-on effect that many business-minded folk don't regret - it has increased transparency and frankness about cost-cutting, and the reduction of head counts.

Picture this scenario. You're a partner in a fast-growing practice. Your business is drowning in internal and external email data and your storage systems are stretched to the limit. Junk email, or spam, is appearing in staff inboxes, creating a potential security risk.