Gen Z, Driving Change in the Legal Profession

Introduction

Gen Z’s perspective on the legal profession is shaped by their deep connection to technology, the values of inclusivity and social justice, and their desire for work-life balance. Gen Z is influenced by the digital era and driven by a strong sense of purpose. Today’s young lawyers are poised to bring fresh and innovative approaches that will reshape the future of legal practice.

The Digital Era

The digital era plays a crucial role in defining young lawyers. Gen Z has been raised in a world where technology is integrated into everyday life. Almost all Gen Z lawyers, or future lawyers, have or will have gone through law school experiencing the impacts of a digitalized world. Whether attending law school virtually, writing exams virtually, or partaking in the now virtual Personal Legal Training Course here in British Columbia, their legal education has been shaped by technology.

Technology has impacted Gen Z in every aspect of their professional lives. Having been raised in this era, Gen Z will drive this change throughout the legal profession. They will come into the profession with a tech-savvy approach to improve practice and make legal work accessible and efficient. Gen Z works hard. It is a generation that uses the tools that they have been presented with to increase work productivity. Gen Z expects seamless and efficient systems and is less tolerant of outdated technology and manual processes. The profession must incorporate more advanced technological tools into its daily operations. This could include AI, cloud-based systems, better case management software, and virtual consults and hearings.

This further ties into Gen Z’s preference for remote and flexible work. The shift toward remote work is something Gen Z is particularly familiar with. They will demand more flexibility in how and where they practice law, thus challenging traditional office culture and promoting hybrid or fully remote legal practices.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

Gen Z values diversity, equity, and inclusion (“DEI”). Gen Z is a radically and ethnically diverse generation in Canada, and this diversity makes them socially and politically engaged. They care about their future and aim to make a difference in the world.

DEI should no longer be a side initiative, but rather a core organizational value for firms. This ties into the digital era, as Gen Z is integrated into a world where technology is a driving factor. Gen Z is aware of and cares about the impacts of what is happening in the world. Gen Z expects DEI not only in the workplace but in every other aspect of their lives. They demand visible diversity, not just with entry-level staff, but also in leadership positions. They expect more diverse representation within law firms, creating a more inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds, races, genders, and sexual orientations.

It is important for Gen Z to see and know that there are safe workplaces where there is inclusion, zero tolerance for discrimination, and support for growth. Gen Z is not waiting for change. They’re demanding it. The legal profession should continue to create more inclusive and diverse environments. This is done not only by hiring more diverse staff, on all levels, but also by having cultural awareness, offering mentorship, and supporting diverse voices in the legal field.

Mental Health & Work-Life Balance

Gen Z values mental health, which challenges the legal profession’s infamous burnout culture. Gen Z is known for valuing mental health and work-life balance. As young lawyers, Gen Z may be expected to drive further change toward reduced billable hour expectations, reasonable hours, and better support for mental health and wellness in the workplace.

Legal workplaces should address and acknowledge the high stress and mental health concerns that come with a legal career by providing resources for well-being and support, especially for law students and juniors. Law is inherently high stress, involving client interactions, heavy caseloads, adversarial settings, deadlines, and workplace demands. Gen Z is progressively advocating for healthier ways to manage these pressures. It is important to equip young lawyers entering the profession with an awareness of its emotional demands and tools to balance these. Balancing emotional demands in the legal profession is essential for long-term success and well-being.

Conclusion

Gen Z has begun and will continue to significantly shape the legal profession. They are likely to push for greater technological innovation, flexibility, inclusivity, and support. To meet their needs, the profession must adapt by embracing more modern work practices, implementing DEI, and providing education that prepares new lawyers to navigate a continuously changing world.