Following a year of considerable volatility, law firm clients in the
UK today remain focused on commerciality and cost control, while
risk and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors have
become critical points of interest for many. At the same time, most
welcome further use of technology in driving efficiency.

However, even with the positivity, challenges for law firms remain.

Domestic political uncertainty, geo-political challenges, an
increasingly complex risk and regulatory environment, the rising
prominence of artificial intelligence, and unceasing cost pressures
from clients continue to weigh heavily on the minds of law firm
leaders.

This report explores the potential for growth in legal spend by UK
corporations and what in-house legal teams are prioritising for
2024, as well as:

– The growing importance of commerciality and risk management
– A significant increase in the number of in-house teams listing
   ESG as a key priority
– Satisfaction levels with outside counsel service dipping slightly
– Specialist knowledge increasing as a key requirement for any
   law firm relationship