Beyond the Legal Box: How Lawyers Can Innovate and Add Value
In the latest episode of Legal Content Chat, John Gregson, employment lawyer and innovation enthusiast, shared his insights on thinking beyond the “legal box.” For John, the “legal box” represents the traditional role of a lawyer, one focused solely on tasks like handling claims and preparing documents. However, his career trajectory showcases how expanding one’s role can create value for clients and open up exciting new opportunities.
The Catalyst for Change
After 19 years in law, John realized the need to go beyond the conventional scope of his profession. “I can’t just be doing the day job,” he shared. This drive led him to innovation, particularly in using data and technology to address client challenges proactively. For instance, his team used data visualization to identify claim patterns for a client, reducing claims and legal costs by addressing root causes early.
Innovative Solutions in Action
Some of the standout initiatives John has implemented include:
- Data Visualization: Plotting employment tribunal claims on a map revealed regional hotspots, enabling focused intervention.
- Decision-Making Tools: Developing tech-driven solutions to help managers handle disability-related issues effectively, reducing claim volumes.
- Collaborative Innovation: Building tools that address specific client needs, such as transport regulation tools and streamlined HR processes.
The Power of Proactivity
John’s approach emphasizes solving problems at the source rather than reacting to issues as they arise. This proactive mindset not only benefits clients by reducing costs but also strengthens relationships and positions the lawyer as a strategic partner.
Advice for Aspiring Innovators
John encourages lawyers to step out of their comfort zones: “You just have to be willing to try something. See where it takes you.” Innovation doesn’t necessarily require abandoning your core role; it’s about finding ways to add value and improve processes.
Looking Ahead
The future of law, John believes, lies in blending traditional roles with innovation. While the field evolves, the key is to embrace technology thoughtfully and leverage it to complement—not replace—human expertise.
John’s journey underscores an important lesson: the legal profession is ripe for innovation, and stepping out of the “legal box” can lead to rewarding opportunities. For those ready to explore, the possibilities are endless.
Here’s the places you can get in touch with Jon:
🔥 Reach Jon on LinkedIn.
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