Fostering the next generation of legal aid lawyers, Polly Hall

Equip lawyers with in-demand legal life skills

Practical application of theory is critical for advancing professionals in today’s shifting legal landscape. BARBRI highlights the in-demand skills needed to help firms and individuals excel in a competitive market — and the training that can help to boost them.

Jody Tranter|BARBRI|

The legal industry is rapidly evolving, driven by technology, rising client expectations, and a competitive market. While a strong legal mind remains essential, law firms and lawyers alike are facing a critical skills gap. Many graduates, despite their qualifications, struggle to hit the ground running because they lack practical skills like business development, client relationship management, and legal technology proficiency. This not only hinders their success but also impacts the profitability and efficiency of their firms.

At BARBRI, we believe that bridging the theory-practice gap is non-negotiable. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by legal professionals, and our recent research across SME law firms in the UK confirms it. There’s a significant skills gap in areas like business development (57%), project management (40%), and client relationship management (48%).

Today’s clients expect more than just legal expertise — they require lawyers who can deliver results, build strong relationships, and manage projects efficiently. This shift necessitates a broader skillset for lawyers, encompassing not just legal expertise but also practical business acumen.

Our new Legal Life Skills courses are a strategic response to this pressing need. Targeted, on-demand, they equip lawyers with the essential skills to thrive in today’s competitive environment. They not only help to bridge the theory-practice gap, but also help learners to gain the practical tools to boost client satisfaction, improve their firm’s impact, and ultimately, achieve greater success. We understand the notoriously busy schedules of lawyers, and our self-paced online format is made up of micro-tasks that allow learners to stop and start as they please. Learning can then fit seamlessly around personal and professional commitments.

The real value lies in the content we provide, going beyond theory and offering practical insights from seasoned legal professionals who understand the daily challenges lawyers face. These insights are invaluable for navigating the complexities of legal practice and developing effective strategies.

In addition, we’ve included masterclasses led by industry experts that provide opportunities for deeper learning and valuable peer-to-peer interaction. This combination of practical knowledge-sharing and interactive learning fosters a dynamic learning environment that empowers participants to apply their newfound skills in real-world scenarios.

Initial launch courses include: Business Development for Junior Lawyers; Business Writing: Engaging the Reader; Meetings: What You Say and How You Say It; Managing Time, Stress and Teamwork; and Project Management, complemented by Masterclasses in presenting, report writing, beating imposter syndrome, embracing innovation in project management and commercial savviness.

Visit Legal Life Skills for more information or to enrol.

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