Ahead of their appearance on a panel at next week’s Australian Law Forum 2025, legal leaders outline how smaller practices navigate external market pressures.
Ahead of their session at the Australian Law Forum, Sharon Kermath, barrister at law, and Renee Roumanos, principal solicitor at Renee Roumanos Legal, discuss the rapidly evolving legal profession in an AI-powered marketplace.
SME firms and barristers are operating in a market defined by change as widespread AI adoption continues to transform legal practice.
“The primary focus for many barristers has traditionally been on legal knowledge, advocacy, legislation, case law, and procedural interpretation,” said Kermath.
However, the traditional role of barristers has evolved significantly in recent years, notably through technological advancement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In fact, courts have now embraced digital lodgement, portals, and virtual hearings, with barristers now receiving briefs in electronic form or shared folders, said Kermath.
During the pandemic, court appearances were often conducted remotely, with many remaining virtual post-pandemic, according to Kermath, who emphasises the positive impact of technology in the legal sector.
“Online meetings too save time for clients and barristers, allowing more focus on other cases and research,” Kermath added.
Additionally, AI tools like Lexis GPT chat allow lawyers to free up time for advocacy and preparation by streamlining legal research and drafting, ultimately leading to higher quality legal service, said Kermath.
“With the right mindset, tools, and authenticity, SME firms can offer a legal experience that’s smarter, kinder, and more effective than the traditional model,” Roumanos added.
Legal professionals don’t have to rely on the ‘old way’ of operating, Roumanos noted, stating that lawyers can run a successful, human-centred practice that’s both profitable and fulfilling.
“Embrace AI. Embrace technology. Be open to change. SME firms thrive when they lean into their agility,” Roumanos said.
“Today, clients expect clarity, accessibility, and a partner in decision making – not just a legal technician.”
“Lawyers are now advisors, educators, and business owners. Social media, AI, and client empowerment have reshaped the profession. We’re expected to be more human, more available, and more transparent.”
In an AI-powered world, “the shift is clear: success now comes from connection, efficiency, and delivering value beyond just black-letter law,” Roumanos concluded.
To hear Sharon Kermath and Renee Roumanos speak further on how SMEs and barristers can navigate a shifting legal market, come along to the Australian Law Forum 2025.
Run in partnership with principal partner Thomson Reuters, the event will take place on Thursday, 14 August 2025, at The Star in Sydney. Click here to buy tickets.
To learn more about the event, including the speakers and agenda, click here.
