The future of the legal sector amidst Covid-19? Leaning into nature and mobile working.

Over the past few years there have been continual efforts to move toward a paperless legal system, ditching the 'old-school' folders and court forms for virtual case management systems and e-forms. Despite the efforts to move the contents of work online, the industry has largely continued to function within a traditional office environment.

Now with the current health pandemic, adaptability has proven to be as crucial as ever. We find professionals being forced to self-isolate, working from home and finding other means to communicate with colleagues and clients. Although not always possible, with emergency court applications and the like where there is increasing uncertainty, it has opened our eyes to the possibilities of a working world a little less glued to our office desks.

Throughout my undergraduate studies I had always been fascinated by the way in which our environment affects us. Living in London, you can feel the constant battle of space; from cramped living conditions to overcrowded public transport and often very traditional offices. I believe these regular spaces we occupy have a significant effect on our mental health and wellbeing, and throughout my studies I have been particularly interested in the positive effect greenery and visually inspiring spaces can have on productivity and an overall sense of contentment. I regularly studied in different environments from creative library spaces to outdoor cafes and quirky workspaces to see the difference this had on my mood and was pleasantly surprised. Most significantly, I noticed how calm and energised I felt when working outdoors (weather permitting), or indoors, surrounded by nature with plenty of light.

It is difficult to focus on much else other than the health crisis at hand. However, when we do eventually find ourselves on the other side, and I believe we will, I imagine we will reemerge with a greater openness to the possibilities of alternative working arrangements. Perhaps there will be a shift in attitudes, placing more value on our health and wellbeing. I will be interested to see whether employers focus more on improving the environment of the office itself, alternative flexible work arrangements, or a combination of the both to meet changing expectations of employees, the global environment, the need to retain talent and encourage productivity.

On discussing this with a former lecturer a few years back he spoke to me about a project he once ran on the quality of life for young solicitors. His favourite dream was

"an IT equipped gypsy caravan and a rural legal practice on the road 😎"

True Andy Unger style if you know of the South Bank University lecturer himself.

As the legal world evolves, alongside rapid technological advances I envision a seamless virtual office. Spaces where we can work alongside colleagues and clients from the comfort of our own garden. I know I for one would be happier surrounded by nature than stuck in an office on a beautiful day.

I've collated a few images of my favourite garden offices below. I may not be able to afford something quite as luxe right now, but one can dream...

#covid19 #mobileworking #gardenoffice #virtualoffice #legalworkenvironment #futureoflaw #outdoor