The Negotiation Club is a community where you can hone your negotiation skills with like-minded individuals in a safe environment. As well as providing a supportive online community, The Negotiation Club has hosted a workshop at our Moorgate campus, with more planned in-person and virtually in the future.
Founder of The Negotiation Club, Philip Brown shares with us why negotiation skills are so important and how they can boost your legal career.
By Philip Brown, Founder of The Negotiation Club. Edited by Cara Fielder. Published 25 November 2024.
Legal knowledge is essential, but the true mark of a great lawyer is the ability to translate that knowledge into effective negotiation strategies. Whether dealing with clients, negotiating with opposing counsel or managing relationships with external parties, skilled negotiation is fundamental. It’s a skill that should not be overlooked in legal training.
Shows like Suits or The Lincoln Lawyer may glamorise the courtroom, but they also shine a light on the importance of negotiation. It’s more than just delivering compelling arguments - it’s about effectively managing relationships, deals and settlements behind the scenes. Lawyers who develop negotiation skills early not only benefit in the courtroom but in everyday interactions that shape their cases and careers.
What is negotiation?
Legal negotiation is the direct discussion and bargaining in a dispute, in an attempt to find agreement between any involved parties. It is a tactic that can be used in existing problems or when developing future agreements.
Three key facts about legal negotiations
- Negotiation is integral to legal work. Whether it’s drafting contracts, settling disputes, or representing clients in mediation, negotiation is a core skill for lawyers.
- Mediation as an extension of negotiation. Lawyers with strong negotiation skills are well-positioned to excel in mediation. This is where the focus is on resolving disputes and reaching mutual agreements without litigation.
- The balance of empathy and assertiveness. A successful negotiator in law must understand the interests of all parties involved while advocating strongly for their client.
What are the consequences of poor negotiation skills?
- Unnecessary litigation. Failing to negotiate effectively can lead to prolonged legal disputes, costing both time and money.
- Damaged professional relationships. A lack of negotiation skills can strain relationships with clients and other professionals, which are critical for long-term success in law.
- Unfavourable outcomes. Poor negotiation may result in agreements that expose your clients to unnecessary risks or losses.
Students who invest time in developing their negotiation skills should highlight this to prospective law firms, as it sets them apart in a highly competitive field. Additionally, participating in negotiation competitions is an excellent way to demonstrate these abilities and further hone your expertise.
For the past four years, The Negotiation Club has supported The University of Law Student Union by running monthly negotiation workshops. Held every Tuesday, these sessions provide an invaluable opportunity for students to engage in real-world negotiation practice. This hands-on experience is essential, as it goes beyond theory to build the confidence and capability needed for future legal success.
To explore how the Club can help you, visit the Negotiation Club website or delve into specific strategies on their negotiation techniques page. Investing in these skills now will pay dividends throughout your legal career.
Book your place at an upcoming negotiations workshop at the Moorgate campus to refine these critical skills.
