Can a law firm really work four days a week and still grow faster than ever?

Most leaders talk about culture, wellbeing and innovation.

Very few actually build it into the way they work.

This week on the Legally Speaking Podcast ™️, I sat down with Marcin Durlak, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of IMD Solicitors LLP, to discuss how he and his team are rewriting the rulebook for modern legal practice.

🔴 From arriving in the UK with one suitcase to leading an award-winning law firm recognised by The Sunday Times as one of the Best Places to Work 2024

🔴 Pioneering a four-day working week with full pay, improving wellbeing and delivering record-breaking productivity and profitability

🔴 Creating the STREAM Framework – focusing on Standardisation, Technology, Rest, Elimination of inefficiencies, Automation and Meeting efficiency – a roadmap every law firm could learn from

🔴 Proving that boutique firms can be more agile, decisive and tech-enabled than large firms with layers of bureaucracy

🔴 Launching LegalTranslation.ai, a secure AI-powered tool transforming legal translation and compliance

🔴 Building a culture rooted in trust, not micromanagement, where success is measured by client satisfaction and real outcomes

Marcin shared lessons that every law firm leader should hear:

“Failure is just part of the journey. Try, fail, learn and move forward.”
“It’s about output, not input. Happy clients and happy teams – that’s success.”

He spoke openly about setbacks, cash flow challenges, coaching, and the courage to adapt. His story is a masterclass in how curiosity, humility and strategic risk-taking can turn adversity into growth.

He also reminded us that innovation isn’t just about technology.

It’s about people.
It’s about creating space for them to think, recharge and perform at their best.

Could the future of law be less about hours worked and more about the impact delivered?

🎙️ A powerful conversation on leadership, innovation and the future of legal work – available now on the Legally Speaking Podcast™, proudly sponsored by Clio.

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