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International Journal of Law and Information Technology Advance Access originally published online on August 30, 2006
International Journal of Law and Information Technology 2007 15(2):170-191; doi:10.1093/ijlit/eal019
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International Journal of Law and Information Technology Vol. 15 No. 2 © Oxford University Press 2007; all rights reserved

Disrupting Conventional Law Firm Business Models using Document Assembly

Darryl R. Mountain1

1 L.L.M. (LSE), Barrister & Solicitor and active member of the American Bar Association eLawyering Task Force, 512 East 12th Street, North Vancouver, BC V7L 2K4 Canada. Telephone 01.604.771.9424. E-mail: darryl.mountain{at}ontago.com


  Abstract

Document assembly software is a technology that is fundamental to disrupting law firms. This article uses the framework set out by Clayton Christensen in The Innovator’s Dilemma and subsequent books to examine the range of business models that use document assembly software, from those that are sustaining in relation to law firms to those that are disruptive in relation to law firms. It looks at three barriers that slow down the pace of disruption: a shortage of the right people, rules against unauthorised practice, and inadequate capitalisation of law firms. These barriers will be overcome on a piecemeal basis as disruptive forces advance and undercut the billable hour.

Key Words: artificial intelligence • billable hour • capitalisation of law firms • document assembly • disruptive innovations • disruptive technologies • future of law • innovator’s dilemma • law firm management • legal web advisors • online legal services • unauthorised practice


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