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The Law Firm Alliance (LFA) gathered its international members for a three-day event in Rotterdam from September 18th to 20th, 2024. Hosted by Dock Legal Experts, a proud LFA member, the conference took place in the heart of Rotterdam at the Hilton Hotel. The event brought together legal professionals from around the world for a blend of networking, learning, and local culture, all set against the backdrop of this vibrant Dutch city.
The event kicked off on September 18th with an early arrivals dinner at Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, a unique and modern art storage facility that doubles as a museum. Located in Rotterdam’s Museum Park, the Depot is famous for its mirrored exterior and its role in safeguarding a vast collection of artworks. Attendees were treated to a private dining experience amidst this architectural marvel, setting the stage for a warm and memorable start to the conference.
On the morning of September 19th, attendees jumped into a day filled with both educational and recreational activities. A series of workshops were held at the Hilton Hotel, focusing on current challenges and trends in the legal industry.
While some participated in these sessions, others joined a lively golf tournament at a nearby course. The tournament was competitive, but it was the Finnish team that emerged victorious, bringing home the win and earning bragging rights among the attendees.
Meanwhile, a group of guests visited the picturesque town of Delft. Known for its historic charm, Delft is famous for its blue-and-white pottery, its connection to Dutch royalty, and its role as a center for art and science. Attendees enjoyed strolling the canals, visiting the iconic New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), and soaking in the rich history of this well-preserved Dutch city.
On Thursday afternoon, the European offices of the Law Firm Alliance (LFA) network participated in a series of educational sessions. The agenda featured insightful presentations, starting with Professor Snijder's session on "Performing (Potential) Client Due Diligence - European Law." This was followed by a dynamic panel discussion on non-compete contracts, which sparked lively debates on the evolving regulatory landscape across different jurisdictions. Another highlight was Lorusso's presentation on the AI Act/Pact, shedding light on the implications of artificial intelligence regulations for legal practices. To conclude the afternoon, Beth Seabright led an engaging discussion on strengthening collaboration within the LFA network, fostering deeper connections and shared best practices among member firms.
In the evening, all attendees gathered for dinner at The Old Dutch, a classic restaurant in Rotterdam. With its timeless interiors and culinary offerings that blend tradition with modern cuisine, the venue provided the perfect ambiance for colleagues to relax and socialize after a day of activities.
The final day of the conference, September 20th, balanced insightful discussions with more cultural explorations. While many attendees participated in breakout sessions at the Hilton, spouses and guests enjoyed a scenic visit to the windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This iconic Dutch landmark features 19 historic windmills that have stood for centuries as a symbol of the Netherlands’ ingenuity in water management.
Back at the hotel, the plenary sessions focused on some of the most pressing issues facing law firms today. Topics included "Keeping the Law Firms Steady as Change Approaches Hyperdrive," which addressed the rapid evolution of technology and regulation in the legal world, as well as "Associate Recruitment, Hiring, Development, and Retention," where firms exchanged strategies for attracting and nurturing top talent. Additionally, sessions on "Effective Marketing Programs" highlighted how firms can navigate the complexities of promoting legal services in a competitive market.
In the spirit of collaboration, several breakout discussions offered smaller groups the chance to dive deeper into these subjects, providing opportunities for lawyers from around the world to exchange ideas and strategies. The sessions also emphasized the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing legal environment, positioning firms to thrive in the face of upcoming challenges.
A significant moment came during the closing plenary meeting, where a formal change in LFA leadership was announced, Jim Zoccola stepped down as president and thanking him for his great contribution over the past years, LFA is marking a new chapter for the organization as it continues to support member firms worldwide.
The conference ended with a memorable dinner at KRZV De Maas, a yacht club with views of the water, offering attendees a final chance to unwind and connect. The evening’s highlight was a special tugboat demonstration by the captain and crew of the “VB MARS” of Boluda Towage, showcasing the power and precision of these essential harbor vessels. It was a fitting end to the event, blending Rotterdam’s maritime heritage with the close-knit atmosphere of the LFA community.
The Law Firm Alliance (LFA) is a global network of mid-sized law firms that provides member firms and their clients with access to legal resources worldwide. Since its founding in 2000, the LFA has been committed to fostering collaboration and shared expertise among its members, ensuring high-quality legal services in a wide range of practice areas. The Rotterdam conference exemplified the LFA’s mission by combining professional development with personal connections, strengthening the bonds between member firms across the globe.
The LFA conference in Rotterdam was an outstanding success, offering a perfect mix of education, cultural exploration, and networking. From the cutting-edge discussions on the future of the legal industry to the informal gatherings that deepened relationships, the event reinforced the strength and unity of the Law Firm Alliance community. With the picturesque backdrop of Rotterdam and its surrounding landmarks, attendees left with new ideas, stronger connections, and a renewed sense of purpose for the future of their firms.
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