Harper Grey’s New Managing Partner, Steven Abramson, on Work-Life Balance, AI & Engaging Lawyers
Steven Abramson, the newly appointed managing partner of Harper Grey LLP, a law firm celebrating its 100-year milestone, has shared his vision for the firm’s future. Abramson, who has built his career in insurance law, is set to lead the firm through a period of industry transformation.
At the heart of Abramson’s three-year tenure is a commitment to maintaining Harper Grey’s legacy while embracing change. He emphasizes that leadership is not about overhauling traditions but about adapting to the evolving needs of the legal profession.
Work-Life Balance: A Priority for the Modern Legal Profession
Abramson has made work-life balance a cornerstone of his leadership. He acknowledges that younger lawyers are eager to contribute but also value boundaries and personal time. This shift in expectations is reshaping the legal industry.
Harper Grey has adopted a hybrid work model, requiring lawyers to be in the office three days a week. Abramson believes this approach strikes a balance between flexibility and the benefits of in-person collaboration.
“The office environment is crucial for mentorship and learning, especially for junior lawyers,” Abramson explains. “While flexibility is important, face-to-face interactions are irreplaceable for professional growth.”
Embracing Technology Without Compromising Standards
Abramson is also focused on leveraging technology to enhance efficiency. Harper Grey is exploring new document management systems and workflow software, particularly for handling complex construction claims.
When it comes to AI, Abramson adopts a cautious yet open-minded approach. “AI can be a powerful tool, but we must ensure it aligns with our legal standards,” he says. “We are committed to staying competitive while upholding the integrity of our work.”
A Career Built on Insurance Law
Abramson’s expertise in insurance law has been a defining feature of his career. He believes this area of practice is often overlooked by law students but offers unique advantages.
“Insurance law is not only stable but also incredibly diverse,” Abramson notes. “It touches on nearly every aspect of law, making it a dynamic and rewarding field for legal professionals.”
Abramson encourages young lawyers to explore this area and seek guidance often. “Even experienced partners rely on collaboration and discussion,” he says. “Mentorship is key to helping junior lawyers find their footing.”
Leadership and Firm Culture
Abramson’s leadership philosophy is rooted in stability and incremental progress. He believes in building on the firm’s existing strengths rather than introducing radical changes. This approach is reflected in Harper Grey’s tight-knit partnership, which currently includes 29 partners and has seen minimal movement over the years.
“Our firm has a family-like atmosphere, and that’s something we want to preserve,” Abramson says. “It’s about creating an environment where lawyers feel supported and valued, whether they’re just starting out or have years of experience.”
Hybrid Work Model and Junior Lawyer Development
The hybrid work model at Harper Grey is designed to offer flexibility while ensuring that junior lawyers have access to the mentorship and learning opportunities that are essential for their development. Abramson points out that many junior lawyers live outside the city center, and the in-office days provide a structured environment for them to learn from more experienced colleagues.
“Mentorship is a cornerstone of our firm’s culture,” Abramson explains. “By having junior lawyers in the office, they can observe how more experienced lawyers handle cases, interact with clients, and manage their workload. These are lessons that are harder to impart in a fully remote setting.”
Exploring New Technologies
While Harper Grey is embracing new technologies, Abramson notes that the firm is taking a thoughtful and measured approach. Some partners are actively exploring new software to streamline workflows, particularly in areas like construction law, where managing large volumes of documents is a significant challenge.
“We’re not looking to adopt technology for the sake of technology,” Abramson says. “Our focus is on tools that can genuinely enhance efficiency without compromising the quality of our work. It’s about finding the right balance.”
The Stability of Insurance Law
Abramson’s career in insurance law has given him a unique perspective on the field. He believes that insurance law is often overlooked by law students because it’s not as flashy as other areas of practice. However, he argues that it offers a level of stability that is rare in the legal profession.
“Insurance law isn’t dependent on economic cycles in the same way that other areas of law are,” Abramson explains. “It also touches on so many different aspects of the law, from contract law to tort law, that it keeps things interesting. Once lawyers get into it, they often realize how dynamic and rewarding it can be.”
Mentorship and Learning
Abramson places a strong emphasis on mentorship and continuous learning within the firm. He encourages junior lawyers to ask questions and seek guidance regularly, emphasizing that even experienced lawyers rely on collaboration and discussion.
“It’s important for young lawyers to understand that they don’t have to have all the answers right away,” Abramson says. “Mentorship is about helping them build confidence and competence over time. It’s a process that takes years, but it’s one of the most rewarding aspects of being a leader in this firm.”
Conclusion
Steven Abramson’s appointment as Harper Grey’s managing partner marks a significant chapter in the firm’s 100-year history. His leadership vision, centered on work-life balance, technological innovation, and mentorship, underscores a commitment to progress while preserving the firm’s legacy. By embracing a hybrid work model and exploring AI, Abramson aims to enhance efficiency without compromising the firm’s high standards. His emphasis on insurance law’s stability and the importance of continuous learning highlights a forward-thinking approach, ensuring Harper Grey remains competitive and nurturing in an evolving legal landscape.
FAQ
What is Steven Abramson’s approach to work-life balance?
Abramson prioritizes work-life balance by implementing a hybrid work model, requiring lawyers to be in the office three days a week, balancing flexibility with in-person collaboration benefits.
How is Harper Grey embracing technology?
The firm is cautiously adopting new technologies like AI and document management systems to enhance efficiency, ensuring they align with legal standards and improve workflows, particularly in construction law.
Why does Abramson encourage lawyers to consider insurance law?
He highlights insurance law’s stability and diversity, touching on various legal areas, making it a dynamic and rewarding field despite its low profile among law students.
What is Abramson’s leadership philosophy?
Abramson focuses on incremental progress and stability, building on the firm’s strengths while maintaining a tight-knit, family-like culture that supports all lawyers.
How does Harper Grey support junior lawyers?
The firm emphasizes mentorship and learning through its hybrid work model, providing structured in-office environments for mentorship and professional growth, essential for junior lawyers’ development.
