I recently presented on workplace trends in law firms at the
Legal Services Property Forum, and this
blog represents my thoughts on the subject. The forum was held at the city
offices of Allen & Overy. Whilst Allen & Overy’s office is a fine
example of the modern workplace of a legal practice, and a great setting for the
event, it is nonetheless quite traditional.
When discussing workplace trends, whether the offices of law
firms or other organisations, we first need to understand the past and the
current situation. The painting shown above depicts a 17th century local law
practice. It shows that the two lawyers are either sharing an office or are even
perhaps in an open plan working environment. What is unusual is that the
lawyers have allowed clients into their personal workspace rather than meeting
them in a client suite. But, as expected, they have lots of paperwork (case
notes) on their desks, shelves and the floor.
