An ever-competitive global hiring war and the expansion of the junior lawyer role were just two of the defining themes of 2021 for some of Africa's biggest law firms.

Bowmans, one of the continent's elite firms, in particular faced an unexpected challenge, following the death of its revered chairman and senior partner Robert Legh in July. Nevertheless, the firm achieved a smooth leadership transition when its deputy chairman Ezra Davids took up the reins in September, thanks to its established succession strategy.