2026: law firms seek growth through talent and technology

The managing partners of leading law firms operating in Spain, consulted by CincoDías, believe that 2026 will be a year of growth. The main challenge will be to provide the best service to their clients in a complex environment marked by geopolitical and economic fluctuations, regulatory pressure, and increasingly intense competition in the legal sector. Attracting and retaining the best talent will remain a key pillar, along with the adoption of technological tools that enable firms to gain efficiency and strengthen their competitiveness.

Artificial intelligence is set to be the driving force of change in law firms. Firms are already using this technology to improve productivity, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance higher-value advisory services, without replacing lawyers or causing a general decrease in prices.

Executives expect that the areas of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), private equity, taxation, finance, and arbitration will dominate 2026. In terms of sectors, they foresee a greater weight in energy, technology, and real estate.

"AI will have a profound impact on our business; implementing it is no longer optional."

In the words of Alejandro Touriño: "The main challenges and opportunities of 2026 will revolve around two main issues: artificial intelligence and market movements resulting from the entry of investment funds into the legal sector. Ecija has three main objectives: to grow organically in double digits, to integrate new partners, teams, and firms, and to consolidate our international presence, especially in Latin America. Artificial intelligence will have a profound impact on our business; implementing it is no longer optional. We expect an increase in interest rates in line with global inflation. TMT will continue to be the most important area of the firm and will lead both billing and demand for services."

Read the full article published by Cinco Días here.