In this episode of Becoming a Lawyer, we’re joined by Philip Young—former solicitor, co-founder of boutique litigation firm CYK, and now co-founder of legal tech startup Garfield AI. Philip shares his bold career journey from Big Law to entrepreneurship and legal innovation, offering junior lawyers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to shape the future of legal practice.🚀 Whether you're just starting your legal career or curious about legal tech, this episode is packed with practical insights on leadership, risk-taking, innovation, and the evolving role of AI in the law.🔎 In this episode, we cover:✅ Life inside Big Law and what Philip learned at Baker McKenzie✅ Why he co-founded CYK—and how to lead outside the traditional path✅ What inspired his move into AI and how Garfield is reimagining legal services✅ Legal tech, small claims, SRA compliance, and what’s next for the industry✅ Advice for junior lawyers who want to stay relevant in an AI-powered future🎧 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to Season 2 Episode 401:32 – Introduction03:14: Early Career: Why Law?14:46 – Big Law Lessons from Baker McKenzie24:27 – Starting CYK: Building a Boutique Firm36:05 – Garfield AI: Entering the Legal Tech World54:10 – Future of the Legal Industry01:01:06 – Quick Fire Round💡 Key Takeaways for Junior Lawyers:🔹 Legal careers aren’t linear—bold moves can lead to a big impact🔹 AI isn’t a threat; it’s a tool—learn how to work with it, not against it🔹 Understanding innovation is becoming as important as understanding the law📌 Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about Garfield AI: https://www.garfield.law/ 🎙️ Subscribe to Becoming a Lawyer for more insights from legal pioneers💬 What part of Philip’s journey inspired you the most? Let us know in the comments!👉 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes!

In this episode of The Legal Loop, we’re joined by Patrick McCann—legal leader, mentor, and founder of City Century, an initiative dedicated to supporting junior lawyers with values-driven guidance and future-focused tools. Patrick brings a wealth of experience from across the legal sector, offering deep insight into how young lawyers can build resilient, ethical, and innovative careers in a changing profession

.🔎 In this episode, we cover:

✅ Patrick’s legal journey—from early career challenges to shaping legal culture

✅ Why values, people, and ethics are foundational to long-term success in law

✅ How City Century is helping the next generation of lawyers thrive

✅ Legal innovation beyond just tech—mindset shifts, mentorship, and sustainable growth

✅ Equality, diversity, and mental health in legal workplaces

✅ Rapid-fire questions, including: What’s one habit that’s changed Patrick’s work life? And what legal trend is he most excited about?

🎧 Timestamps:

0:00–Welcome to Season 2 Episode 3

02:37 – Introduction: Meet Patrick McCann

05:33 – Legal Journey & Lessons Learned

12:11 – People, Value & Ethics in the Legal Profession

24:36 – City Century & Legal Innovation:

31:20 - EDI, Mental Health & Career Sustainability

38:57 - Navigating the Legal Industry in 2025 and beyond 44:26 - Rapid Fire Questions

💡 Key Takeaways for Junior Lawyers:

🔹 Values aren’t optional—they’re essential to sustainable legal success

🔹 Innovation in law is about mindset, not just tech

🔹 Inclusivity and wellbeing are the future of legal culture

🔥 Don’t miss this thoughtful and forward-looking conversation with Patrick McCann—perfect for junior lawyers, legal educators, and anyone shaping the next chapter of the profession.

📌 Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about City Century: [https://citycentury.co.uk/]

🎙️ Subscribe to Become a Lawyer for more insights from legal change makers!💬 What values guide your legal journey? Drop a comment below! 👇👉

Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes!

In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we explore the latest legal headlines. Hogan Lovells nears a $3 billion revenue milestone, while Clifford Chance reports an 80% trainee retention rate, signaling strong competition in the legal market. Meanwhile, the legal super-regulator's chair steps down unexpectedly, raising questions about future leadership.

We also cover the Ministry of Justice’s call for public feedback on private prosecution reforms and a High Court ruling reinstating a negligence claim against a family law firm. On the international front, BHP denies liability in Brazil’s Fundão Dam collapse trial, a case involving over 600,000 claimants.

Technology in law is also under scrutiny, as a barrister warns about the risks of litigants-in-person using AI tools like ChatGPT for legal advice. And in a lighter moment, email etiquette is in the spotlight after a junior lawyer faced backlash for addressing a hiring manager by their first name.

Tune in for these stories and more, and don’t forget to subscribe for your weekly legal insights!