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!

In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we dive into the latest developments in the legal world. A new LawCare report reveals a 35% rise in legal professionals seeking support for stress and anxiety, emphasising the pressure in the profession. Meanwhile, HMRC and the DBT launch a consultation on e-invoicing, aiming to streamline business processes and reduce paperwork burdens.

Sustainability is also in the spotlight, as gas leaks at three law firms reportedly produced emissions equivalent to 500,000 miles driven, raising concerns about the sector’s environmental impact. On the salary front, Norton Rose Fulbright hikes NQ lawyer pay to £135,000, continuing the industry’s fierce competition for top talent.

We also cover a barrister’s suspension over inappropriate workplace conduct, the American Bar Association’s move to challenge Trump’s ‘equal merit’ order, and the government’s proposed cuts to solicitor apprenticeship funding, which could reshape the future of legal education.

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

In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we cover key developments reshaping the legal sector. The UK government announces a £12.5 million boost for the family court pilot scheme ‘Pathfinder,’ a move aimed at easing the burdens of overworked courts. Meanwhile, Linklaters and Herbert Smith Freehills launch their trainee retention campaigns as spring approaches, keeping the focus on retaining top legal talent.

We also discuss the booming $28.5 billion alternative legal services market, highlighting how law is evolving with innovative solutions. In other news, RPC pulls out of its planned Moorgate move, and Mishcon de Reya begins a redundancy consultation amidst shifting market conditions.

On a lighter note, Reese Witherspoon, star of Legally Blonde, was mistaken for a real lawyer during jury duty—sparking some amusing conversations. Lastly, we explore the future of AI in the legal world, with the Master of the Rolls urging that new technologies must uphold the rule of law, and legislative changes that could remove the time limit for child sexual abuse claims in the UK.

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

In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we cover major moves and courtroom wins in the legal world. Quinn Emanuel secures a significant victory for WeRealise against JP Morgan, while Hogan Lovells strengthens its presence in Italy by recruiting a five-member team from White & Case. Meanwhile, Pogust Goodhead undergoes leadership changes amid its C-suite shuffle.

We also delve into the heated Merricks v. Mastercard case, as the funder brings in top legal talent to challenge a settlement. On the regulatory front, the SRA addresses concerns about “teething problems” with the new SQE exam and promises adjustments.

On the salary front, Debevoise raises newly qualified lawyer pay to an eye-watering £173,100, reflecting fierce competition for top talent. Finally, we discuss Thorntons’ merger with Macnabs in Scotland and the legal sector’s ongoing struggle to meet sustainability goals amid cost pressures.

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

In this episode of "The Legal Loop," we delve into the latest stories shaping the legal world. US law firms are making significant strides in the UK’s M&A market, doubling their presence among top advisers in just two years. Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court deliberates on where e-cigarette manufacturers can file lawsuits, a decision that could set a key precedent for future litigation.

We also explore the growing trend of law firms offering extra holidays for employees engaging in green travel initiatives—a win for sustainability and workplace wellbeing. On the mental health front, LawCare’s "Life in the Law 2025" surveys aim to address challenges in the legal profession, focusing on stress and wellbeing.

Finally, we discuss a sobering report on climate change, warning of catastrophic economic impacts by 2090 if immediate action isn’t taken. Tune in to understand how these pressing issues could reshape the legal landscape and influence your practice.

Unlock the secrets to thriving in today’s legal landscape! This video dives deep into essential leadership strategies and skills every modern lawyer needs to succeed. Whether you’re looking to innovate, enhance your understanding of the business of law, or stay ahead in the future of the legal industry, this podcast is for you. From actionable insights to transformative ideas, discover how to redefine your legal practice. Don't miss out—subscribe and join the conversation on shaping the future of law! 👉 Subscribe for more insights on legal innovation and strategy 👉 Share this video with colleagues ready to revolutionize their legal careers! 👉 Comment below: What’s your top priority for advancing in the legal field? For 10% off The Legal MBA Essentials enter LegalLoop10 at https://www.thelegal.mba/