Jan 31 2025 56 mins
Brenda Agnew is back, this time co-hosting with Charles Gluckstein as they sit down with Chris Clifford and Ted Bergeron, the founding partners of Bergeron Clifford LLP. In this episode, they chat about how legal practices are evolving, touching on how technology, diversification, and the challenges of life after COVID have shaped their approach. From growing their firms and embracing data-driven decisions to expanding into new practice areas, it’s all about staying client-focused. They also chat about the importance of mentorship, firm culture, and how tools like AI are transforming the way lawyers work.
Key Takeaways:
[3:50] The founding story of Bergeron Clifford and how it has adapted in the past 25 years, including their early focus on motor vehicle accident litigation.
[6:05] The shift from generalist to specialist legal practices and the impact of Ontario’s insurance reforms.
[9:55] The COVID-19’s pandemic’s effect on motor vehicle cases and the shift to other practice areas like medical malpractice, sexual abuse litigation, and class actions.
[12:42] Leveraging technology and data analytics to streamline operations and drive decisions in legal practices.
[16:44] Balancing expansion, profitability, and client care, including factors like geographic location and practice areas.
[22:10] Managing passion projects and cases with a focus on sustainability and justice.
[30:49] Post-COVID client interactions and the growing role of technology, including remote signatures and Zoom meetings.
[36:37] Addressing staff management challenges, training young lawyers, and maintaining firm culture in a hybrid work environment.
[45:24] The future of embracing AI, trial technology, and evolving client needs while retaining human judgment and a healthy dose of skepticism.
Mentioned in this episode:
To learn more about the work we do at Gluckstein Lawyers, please visit Gluckstein Lawyers.
Bergeron Clifford LLP: Visit Website
Gluckstein Lawyers on Facebook
Gluckstein Lawyers on Instagram
Gluckstein Lawyers on Linkedin