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Lawyers urged to adapt to digital future
While making the shift towards digital has become common in many businesses, a series of seminars have shown the legal profession continues to trail behind.
Staff reporter
InfoTrack has just wrapped up its series of “Risks and Rewards of e-conveyancing” seminars in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with feedback indicating that despite legal practitioners facing an increasing need to transition from paper to digital, some are hesitant to do so.
“We are at the start of a journey,” said Emanuel Oros, partner at Sparke Helmore Lawyers, who noted there will soon be more choice for lawyers and conveyancers who will be able to find ways to conduct settlements electronically.
An increase in infrastructure projects, like the new Sydney Airport, will also contribute to the number of transactions coming through to conveyancers, Mr Oros said.
“Development often takes place around key transport hubs.”
Appearing at the Melbourne seminar series, Stefan Kourkoulis of S Kourkoulis and Associates, offered a similar sentiment.
Mr Kourkoulis added the shift towards digital is paramount in enabling lawyers to stay ahead of the competition and keep up with clients.
“Lawyers generally resist change,” he noted.
Peta Stewart, a property conveyancer mentor, agreed there are many who are hesitant to respond to the vast technology solutions being offered in today’s marketplace, and urged lawyers to take a proactive approach in eliminating this mindset.
“We need to be working on our business, not just in the business. When things are slow, we need to be bringing in really good business development practices,” she explained.
“Make sure you show up online and upskill your staff… You can’t skip ahead to e-settlements. You need to be online first to create trust with your clients.”
