The American Lawyer: In-House Lawyers Expect More Disputes in 2022, Especially of the Cyber- and ESG-Related Varieties

In an interview with American Lawyer, Baker McKenzie Partners Maurice Bellan, Barry Thompson and Jennifer Ancona Semko discuss the results of the Firm's 2022 Year Ahead Global Disputes Forecast. The Forecast revealed that, of more than 600 senior legal and risk leaders surveyed, about one-third expect an increase in disputes in the coming year, and approximately half expect COVID-19 to be the biggest external driver. Maurice explained how "uncertainty drives risk" and COVID-19 is adding further pressure. The Forecast also revealed that cybersecurity and data disputes are the top two risk of concern, which Barry attributed to "the fact that we're all online all day all the time." Jennifer discussed how the Firm has been working with clients on litigation preparedness--which the Forecast revealed only 35% of respondents feel highly prepared for.