ALFA International: Innovation and AI in Legal Services
On 26–28 June 2025, the ALFA International European Regional Meeting took place in London, United Kingdom. This time, the event was hosted by the renowned law firm Charles Russell Speechlys. Lepmets & Nõges was represented by our attorneys Sandra Sepp and Kristiina Pralla. For both of them, this was the first time participating in an ALFA International regional meeting.
ALFA International brings together more than 150 law firms and thousands of lawyers in over 80 jurisdictions worldwide. Being part of such a network allows us to provide cross-border legal assistance to clients and build connections with colleagues dealing with similar issues in different legal environments.
Focus on Innovation and AI
One of the central topics of the event was the role of artificial intelligence and innovation in legal services. The opening panel “Creating a Comprehensive Innovation Strategy and How to Embed an Innovative Culture” discussed how to build a truly innovative culture in a law firm and how new technologies – especially generative AI – are already reshaping lawyers’ daily work.
It was particularly interesting and eye-opening to listen to presentations from the host firm Charles Russell Speechlys. With nearly one thousand employees, they have the resources to also develop their own AI solutions. What already sounds like everyday reality in London – such as AI-assisted client interactions, process automation, and development of tailored software – is still largely a vision of the future for us in Estonia. This made it extremely valuable to see where the legal market is heading and how the work of lawyers is inevitably evolving.
The AI topic is not only relevant internationally. We have repeatedly discussed it within the Estonian Bar Association, where opinions have been divided – some see AI as offering huge potential, others emphasize risks and ethical concerns. At the recent Nordic-Baltic Presidential Meeting for Bar Leaders in Reykjavik, the provocative question was even raised: “Is AI a game-changer for the legal world or a catastrophic asteroid?” The developments seen in London confirmed to us that AI is already changing the game – the real question is how, and at what pace, to embrace it. The consensus was that AI will not replace lawyers, but lawyers who fail to use AI may be left behind.
Developing the Network and European Regional Plans
The second discussion block focused more concretely on how law firms are implementing innovations in practice. This provided a good opportunity to compare experiences and share practical tips. For us, it was important that input from Estonia’s smaller market sparked significant interest – especially in the context of IT and e-governance solutions, which our attorneys deal with daily. Partners from the host firm expressed strong interest in Estonia’s experience, which confirmed that even a firm from a small country can have an important voice on the international stage.
The official part of the meeting also covered future plans for ALFA International’s European region. Discussions included joint marketing initiatives, client-focused events, and recruitment of new members. Among other things, a possible seminar in Prague for European clients in 2026 was mentioned, and concrete steps were agreed to strengthen cooperation among member firms.
The Power of the Network and Informal Interaction
In addition to the official sessions, London offered plenty of opportunities for informal networking. The opening reception was held at the The Law Society Reading Room, while on the second evening our attorneys attended an exclusive dinner at the Churchill War Rooms – a historic site that played a key role in Britain’s leadership during World War II. These evenings provided an excellent chance to create new contacts, exchange experiences, and explore opportunities for cooperation in a relaxed atmosphere.
On the final day, a luxury cruise on the Thames and a joint lunch were also organized, though our representatives did not attend this part.
Conclusion
The London regional meeting was highly valuable for our firm. We took away numerous ideas and practical insights, especially concerning the practical application of AI and technology in legal services. We also received confirmation that a firm from a smaller jurisdiction can provide significant added value to an international network – our innovation and experience in digital solutions attracted the attention of participants.
Lepmets & Nõges has set itself the goal of being the best legal partner for clients. The London event showed that this goal is achievable if we continue sharing knowledge, strengthening our international network, and implementing innovative solutions.
If you have a legal question in Estonia or anywhere else in the world, we are your trusted partner – providing clarity, precision, and the best possible solutions.
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ALFA International is a leading network of independent law firms, established in 1980. It is the largest legal network offering effective solutions worldwide. We are the only member of this network in Estonia.
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