News

Commercial firm Keypoint Law has appointed a consulting principal with more than two decades of experience.

As we enter 2026, the firms that will lead the market are those that embed hybrid working between NewLaw teams and traditional legal practice as business‑as‑usual, not a future aspiration. The shift is already happening – and it is accelerating, writes Emily Coghlan and Jenae Webb.

Claims that AI will “kill” the legal profession are everywhere, but not everyone is buying the hype. Instead, Jean Gan warns that the real danger isn’t AI itself – it’s what happens if lawyers ignore the technology that could quietly reshape the profession from within.

This past week has seen several disciplinary proceedings, including a lawyer who was struck off for tricking a fired employee with fake emails and another who used client money in a wages dispute. Here is your weekly round-up of the biggest stories for Australia’s legal profession.

A Federal Court judge encouraged barristers to question their client’s instructions and push back if it comes close to breaching their ethics.

A number of recent employment cases in Queensland have demonstrated that psychological health is being treated the same as physical safety, a workplace relations partner has said.

While some see the incoming AML/CTF reforms as a burden, we see them as an opportunity to provide a superior client experience, writes Rolf Howard.

The College of Law has named a new director of innovation to drive the institution’s artificial intelligence and innovation agenda.

National firm Sparke Helmore Lawyers has added a partner to its projects and government commercial team, as well as a special counsel who specialises in contract law and dispute resolution.

A solicitor has been struck off after repeatedly lying about his education, qualifications, and practising certificate in an attempt to secure a role at a BigLaw firm.