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6 skills every legal team needs (and how they can develop them)
So, what sets high-performing legal teams apart? It’s not just what they know - it’s how they work.
Legal expertise alone isn’t enough anymore. Clients expect more, organisations demand efficiency, and the profession continues to shift under the weight of new technology, regulatory changes, and evolving business needs.
So, what sets high-performing legal teams apart? It’s not just what they know - it’s how they work.
We've identified six key skills that today’s legal teams need to stay ahead. But recognising these skills is just the start. The real challenge is developing them in a way that delivers meaningful results.
The skills that separate good from great
Some teams operate like well-oiled machines, handling complex matters with precision, navigating change with ease, and consistently delivering value. What do they have in common? A mastery of these six core skills.
1. Tech-savvy legal thinking
AI, automation, and legal tech aren’t optional anymore. Teams that integrate technology effectively reduce inefficiencies, improve accuracy, and free up time for higher-value work.
2. Commercial awareness
Understanding a client’s business isn't just a bonus - it’s essential. The best legal teams go beyond the law to provide strategic advice that aligns with commercial realities.
3. Leadership and collaboration
Whether you're managing a team or working across departments, strong leadership and collaboration skills are critical. The ability to motivate, delegate, and foster a productive culture directly impacts outcomes.
4. Clear, impactful communication
Complex legal issues don’t have to sound complex. The best teams communicate clearly, persuasively, and with purpose - whether in client meetings, courtrooms, or internal discussions.
5. Agility and continuous learning
Regulatory shifts, new precedents, evolving client expectations - adaptability is a non-negotiable skill. The most successful legal teams embrace lifelong learning and proactive change management.
6. Ethical and strategic decision-making
The weight of legal decisions is significant, and ethical judgment is at the core of every strong legal team. Knowing how to navigate difficult choices while maintaining integrity is a skill that can’t be overlooked.
How to build these skills in your team
Knowing what’s important is one thing—developing these skills in a practical, structured way is another. That’s where our 6 skills every legal team needs guide comes in.
✔ Get expert insights on why these six skills matter
✔ Discover actionable strategies to strengthen them within your team
✔ Get a BONUS legal skills assessment checklist to evaluate your team’s current capabilities
Strong legal teams don’t just happen. They’re built.
Download the guide today and take the first step towards a smarter, more effective team. Get the 6 skills guide now
Support your team's growth with a smarter approach to CPD. Our Digital CPD Subscription for organisations makes CPD compliance effortless, nurtures talent, and closes skills gaps—while saving your firm time and money. Connect with us to discuss your organisations needs.
