Rule of law becomes top concern for lawyers
An annual report from the International Bar Association (IBA) has identified the promotion and defence of the rule of law as the most pressing concern facing lawyers across the world.
The lawyers’ group says that its Legal Agenda 2025 marks “a significant change” from the publication’s first edition in 2023, which ranked artificial intelligence (AI) as the priority for lawyers, with the rule of law positioned seventh.
“The rule of law can no longer be assumed to be secure, even in jurisdictions that have traditionally led by example,” said IBA President Jaime Carey.
“The updated agenda reflects the profession’s collective responsibility to defend judicial independence, uphold professional integrity, and engage more actively with society on why the rule of law matters,” he added.
‘Societal leadership’
Carey stated that such a stance would move lawyers “beyond traditional practice and towards societal leadership and citizenship functions”.
The IBA is to launch a video campaign aimed at young people, which is designed to improve understanding of the rule of law and its relevance to their day-to-day lives.
The 2025 agenda refers to “a growing sense” that the rule of law is increasingly under threat – including in jurisdictions that have historically championed it, such as Europe and the US.
‘Divergence’ on AI rules
The publication finds that, while AI remains a critical issue, it has moved from an emerging concern to a regulatory and operational reality.
“Clients are increasingly requesting AI-based legal services that are not yet within the scope of existing regulations,” the IBA states.
The report says that, while some jurisdictions have introduced AI regulations, “significant divergence” across regions is expected to persist.
“Furthermore, the development of bespoke AI systems in law firms might require adapted business models and a revisiting of the traditional hourly billing structures,” it adds.
‘Sanctions effect’ in US
The agenda also says that AI, along with non-equity partnerships, may help to improve the legal profession’s ability to attract and retain talent.
“AI is opening up a new line of recruitment in the legal profession for technologists to work alongside lawyers. Non-equity partnerships for senior lawyers have increasingly become a way of retaining talent, allowing firms to expand their partner ranks and remain competitive,” the report states.
The agenda also warns that talent retention in the US has been affected by broader political and regulatory developments – including the government’s imposition of sanctions on some law firms.