Welcome to the August edition of the Dye & Durham Docket! As the Olympic Games light up the summer skies in Paris and unite nations once again, our rundown of the latest legal updates and trends also transcends boundaries. Lace up, and let's kick off! 

Featured article

The Olympics are more than fun and games for these law students, who are getting real-life legal experience and a free trip to Paris to explore the legal life of the Olympic Games. No need to feel FOMO—you can also learn about the legal issues related to the games at no expense.  

Industry news and trends

Legal analytics can improve client research and help you create the perfect pitch deck to land sought-after clients. Learn how. 

Listen to this insightful and engaging Legal Talk Network podcast on social media marketing for lawyers. 

A trend analysis for legal pricing and budgeting across the UK and North America found that most law firms have increased their prices over the last year despite clients increasingly demanding agile pricing, transparency, and proactive communication. 

Discover seven success factors reshaping law firm rankings in 2024. 

Global news

The Australian scene

From July 1, the Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Act 2024 imposes new domestic controls on vaping as the government tackles "the biggest loophole in Australian healthcare history." Read this summary of the changes. 

Read this legal expert's opinion on how the global phenomenon of digital assets offers new pathways to partnership for special counsel and senior associates looking to take the next step. 

In light of impending Tranche 2 AML/CTF reforms, review this comprehensive guide on what it will likely mean for creating a robust AML programme for your law practice. 

What's up in Canada?

A group of Canadian school boards is suing social media platforms, accusing them of designing addictive products that harm kids and disrupt learning— what are their odds of success? 

Three lawyers from an Ottawa-based firm, two of whom are legally blind, were recently recognized by the Ontario Bar Association for creating an environment where lawyers with disabilities can thrive and shine rather than just adapt. Be inspired by their story. 

This round-up of important legal developments in Canada in 2024, including case reviews and legislation changes, makes for a long but worthwhile weekend read. 

The Irish market

The Law Society of Ireland recently made a detailed submission on the National Implementation of EU Harmonised Rules on AI (AI Act). You can read a summary of the submission and download it here. 

A recent survey revealed that nearly 70% of legal firms in Ireland increased fee income over the last year. All top 20 firms were able to turn this increased revenue into higher profits, while only 50% of smaller firms managed to do the same. 

"Employer of Record" arrangements are on the rise. Here's everything you need to know about this increasingly common practice, including key risks and best practice guidance. 

The scene in South Africa

In a significant milestone, South Africa has appointed its first female Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya. Listen to this conversation between an MP and the Acting Director of the Women's Legal Centre about what this means for the legal profession in the country. 

July 18 is recognized worldwide as Nelson Mandela International Day ("Mandela Day") to honour his incredible legacy and celebrate the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world. Journey through the archives and meet this anti-apartheid hero and global icon who was the first democratically elected president of South Africa. 

The recently signed Climate Change Act, South Africa's first sweeping climate change law, outlines the country's response to climate change and ensures that policy aligns with the global movement towards low-carbon and climate-resilient economies and societies. Read these legal experts' overview of the Act. 

What's up in the UK?

According to a recent Spear's survey, an imminent increase in court transparency, securing optimal jurisdictions, and no-fault divorce are some trends shaping the family law industry in 2024. 

The King's Speech 2024 outlined the new Labour government's priorities for the months ahead.  What does it say about law and justice? 

With general elections set to take place in many countries this year, this solicitor is examining the role of lawyers in elections, politics, and power transitions. 

    Dye & Durham in action

Many thanks to our Toronto-based corporate clients for attending the first Dye & Durham Racquets and Regatta event at The Royal Canadian Yacht Club. We had a fantastic time dining, dancing and celebrating summer together! 

We officially opened our UK headquarters in Paddington! Located in one of London's most iconic office spaces, The Point, the office features modern workspaces and first-class amenities, creating an atmosphere that enables our people to be the best version of themselves as we work together to solve our customers' challenges and shape the global future of legal tech. 

Dye & Durham in the news

Our UK Product Lead, Paul Clarke, was featured in the June edition of Property Law UK, discussing the UK's role in digitising the home buying and selling process, emphasizing government investment and industry efforts to accelerate transactions, reduce fall-through rates, and improve satisfaction. 

Upcoming events

Register for our Industry Insight Webinar: Attracting and Retaining Residential Clients─ Tips and Traps, on Tuesday, August 13 at 11:30 am. Industry expert, Ian Quayle, will be discussing: 

• Attracting new clients ─ creating attractive websites, finding introducers, and winning the right sort of work. 
• Retaining existing clients ─ setting realistic expectations and tips on retaining work.
• Avoiding claims and complaints. 
• Measuring success or failure.

On August 6, Tobi (Macey) Heskett, our Head of Product in Australia, will take the stage one last time at the final Australasian Legal Practice Management Association (ALPMA) Next Level session. 

Hosted at The College of Law Australia in Melbourne, Tobi will discuss best practices and strategies for customer-centric product design, emphasising the profound impact of prioritising customers.  

Register to secure your spot and learn invaluable strategies to elevate your product game.  

A lighter note 

This collection of individuals sharing their most memorable Olympic moments will evoke laughter, tears, or both. 

Bonus: Watch this video of 10 of the greatest Olympic moments and be inspired by the unbreakable human spirit. 

That’s it for this edition of the Dye & Durham Docket. Thank you for reading, and see you next month! 

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