How I got into Legal Tech

What I do now

I currently work as a legal technology assistant at Mills & Reeve, within the firm’s digital & data team. My role involves assisting in the delivery of innovative solutions, helping with the management of client platforms such as HighQ (a secure, cloud based platform that helps legal teams share documents, manage projects, and collaborate amongst other uses) and contributing to data-driven projects designed to improve how our lawyers and clients collaborate.

Being at a junior level has given me a valuable opportunity to observe, assist, and learn from specialists across legal technology, legal, and business services teams. I often help translate needs into practical solutions, bridging the gap between technology and traditional legal service delivery.

What I enjoy most about the role is the collaboration it encourages. Legal technology isn’t just about tools or systems, it’s about people, communication, and finding smarter ways to work together. I’ve found real satisfaction in supporting initiatives that make legal processes more efficient and accessible, even in small ways.

How I got here

When I first heard the term legal technology at university, I was intrigued and, truthfully, a little surprised. I was well into my law degree before I ever considered the legal ops side of how law firms work. The idea that technology could meaningfully transform legal work, improving both efficiency and access, was completely new to me. From that moment, I knew it was an area I wanted to understand better.

After graduating, I began my career as a paralegal. I gained valuable experience across different teams and saw first-hand how much time and effort went into managing information, processes, and client communication. The work was meaningful, but I often found myself thinking about how technology could simplify some of the more repetitive or administrative tasks, or even improve other areas of legal work, such as research. I didn’t see it as replacing people, rather as a way to make their work more impactful.

That curiosity led me to explore opportunities in legal operations and technology. Joining Mills & Reeve gave me the chance to work in a space that blends innovation with legal knowledge, allowing me to build new skills while contributing to projects that support both our lawyers and clients.

At first, I found it challenging to shift from the task-focused and deadline-driven mindset I’d developed as a paralegal, to the more structured, project-based way of working required in legal technology. The legal industry often prizes being responsive and “getting things done” ad hoc, whereas project work demands a proactive approach built on planning, prioritisation, and consistent processes from the outset. I’m still learning and adjusting to that way of thinking, but the experience has already broadened how I understand teamwork and delivery in a legal environment.

Advice for others

For anyone interested in moving into legal technology, I would say curiosity is key. It’s a field that rewards those who enjoy problem-solving and learning on the go. You don’t need to be a technical expert to get started — understanding how people work and where processes can be improved is often just as valuable.

I’m still early in my career, but I see this stage as a chance to build confidence, learn best practices, and understand how different teams come together to deliver digital solutions. Taking the time to ask questions, shadow colleagues, and get involved wherever possible has helped me grow quickly.

Legal technology is still evolving, and there’s plenty of room to carve out your own path. Whether you come from a legal, business, or tech background, there’s always something new to contribute. For me, it’s been a rewarding journey that combines my interest in law with a curiosity for innovation, and I’m excited to see where it leads next.

Abshir Mussa

Legal Technology Assistant

Mills & Reeve