IE Law School at the EMEA NewLaw Summit: the future of legal practice and the transformation of legal operations

On May 12, IE Law School participated in the 6th edition of the EMEA NewLaw Summit, organized by PwC Tax & Legal in Madrid. This event brought together business leaders, technology experts, and public administration representatives to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the legal profession in an environment shaped by digital transformation and evolving market demands.

Soledad Atienza, Dean of IE Law School, took part in the panel "The Lawyer of the Future: New Profiles and Skills", moderated by Patricia Manca, Partner at PwC Tax & Legal. During the discussion, Atienza analyzed the necessary changes in legal education to prepare lawyers for current and future challenges. In response to Manca’s question about how much of what is taught in law schools today will remain relevant in the future, Atienza emphasized three essential areas: the importance of judgment and critical thinking as a foundational skill for the profession, the need to shift learning away from memorization toward practical and collaborative approaches, and the development of interpersonal skills such as empathy, teamwork, and effective communication.

New Legal Profiles

The discussion also addressed the impact of new market trends on the profession. Atienza highlighted that the growth in hiring within corporate legal departments is now surpassing that of law firms, signaling a structural shift in the sector and the emergence of the lawyer as a strategic figure within companies. She also pointed out the importance of integrating diverse profiles into today’s legal teams, combining legal training with skills in areas such as data analysis, operations management, and digitalization. According to Atienza, this diversity not only meets market demands but also adds greater value for clients.

Artificial Intelligence and the Educational Challenge

Another central topic was the role of artificial intelligence in the legal profession. Spain is among the countries most rapidly adapting to digital transformation in the legal sector, but Atienza stressed the need to establish clear criteria for its use. She underlined IE Law School’s initiative to provide students and faculty access to tools like Harvey while emphasizing the importance of teaching not only how to use these technologies but also when and why, adapting educational methodologies to the new technological reality.

A Program to Lead Legal Transformation

As part of the event, IE Law School introduced its new program in collaboration with PwC España: Legal Operations Management and Transformation of the Legal Function. This program is designed for legal professionals seeking to acquire skills in areas such as operations management, digitalization, and data analysis, responding to the demands of an increasingly competitive and specialized market. The IE Law School Executive Education team was present at the event with an information stand where attendees could learn more about this innovative educational offering.

With projects like this and its participation in key forums such as the EMEA NewLaw Summit, IE Law School reinforces its commitment to future-oriented legal education and the transformation of the profession.