Breaking Busy Culture in Legal: Technology and the New Generation

In this episode of the File Notes podcast, host Sophie Svenson chats with Mollie Tregillis about the evolution of the legal industry amid rapid technological advancements and generational shifts. Mollie shares her unique career journey—from earning a media communications and law degree to leading a consulting practice in legal operations at Minter Ellison. Experiencing firsthand the "currency of being busy" phenomenon that pervades law firm culture, Mollie decided to break away and start her own consulting practice. This move was driven by her desire to challenge the traditional busy culture and promote a more balanced, efficient approach to legal work.

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They dive deep into the impact of emerging technologies like generative AI, exploring how these tools are disrupting conventional business models and encouraging a shift toward value-based pricing. Mollie discusses how she now assists law firms and lawyers across Australia in navigating these technological changes while simultaneously addressing cultural challenges related to overwork and inefficiency.

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The conversation also highlights the priorities of the new generation of lawyers, who are advocating for work-life balance and significant cultural shifts within law firms. Mollie emphasizes the need for changes in legal education and firm structures to align with these evolving expectations. Offering actionable advice, she encourages young lawyers to take a flexible approach to their careers, experiment with diverse opportunities, and avoid feeling confined to a traditional career path.

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This episode provides essential insights into the future of legal services, the transformative role of technology, and strategies for firms to adapt to meet the demands of both clients and a changing workforce—all while breaking free from the traditional "busy culture" that has long dominated the industry.

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