It is of course too early to predict the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, although most commentators predict that the repercussions on the economy and otherwise will be felt for years to come. Law firms may understandably be focused on the dramatic changes to their businesses in the short-term but, as the pandemic persists, there are also questions regarding the risks that firms may face amid the changing circumstances.

In particular, the severe economic pressure now faced by many clients can be a precipitating event for increased claims against attorneys, as clients may be more inclined to blame their advisors for financial loss. Added to those risks are the unique challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may lead to claims specifically relating to attorney advice regarding a client's response to the pandemic. Yet another factor is the increased stress faced by attorneys both personally and professionally during the pandemic, which may result in increased errors that lead to claims.