5 Top Legal Trends of 2025

Hi ZipLawyer! Wouldn't it be nice to know the key trends coming up for law firms in 2025 plus how to discuss them in interviews?

Well, that's exactly what we've got for you today. Use them to impress in applications, interviews and ACs!

1. Strategic International Expansion

The Trend: Law firms are becoming more selective about where they establish international offices, focusing on high-potential regions like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Singapore. These regions offer regulatory and economic advantages, while riskier markets like China and Russia are being deprioritised.

Why it's happening:

• Focus on High-Growth Hubs: Saudi Arabia and Dubai are attracting law firms with reforms which allow foreign firms to operate without an affiliation with a local law firm. This will likely lead to more growth throughout 2025 and beyond. Singapore remains a vital base for law firms, renowned for its role as an international arbitration hub and its thriving biotech and hedge fund sectors, while providing access to key Asian markets.
• Exit from Risky Markets: Firms are leaving China and Russia due to geopolitical tensions, sanctions, and slowing business opportunities, while financial underperformance in regions like South Africa and Poland has prompted strategic realignments.
• Shift to Specialised Offices: Moving away from the "land grab" strategy, firms are prioritising smaller, focused offices in regions that align with their long-term business goals and profitability.

2. Impact of U.S. Politics on Global Expansion