James Lavan featured in Law.com discussing lawyers’ return to Middle East offices

James has been quoted in Law.com in an article discussing the return of lawyers to Middle East offices following widespread temporary relocations during the U.S.–Iran conflict.
 
Although the ceasefire has enabled many to return, uncertainty continues to shape the market. Law firms are proceeding cautiously. Recruitment has slowed, candidates are more hesitant, and hiring is shifting toward areas such as disputes and regulatory work. Despite these short-term disruptions, firms remain confident in the region’s long-term appeal.
 
James Lavan, executive director at Buchanan Law, said hiring is continuing but has become less opportunistic and more strategic and planned, with no change in overall volume, though greater caution now shapes both hiring decisions and mobility.
 
“Most firms are operating as normal on the surface, but behind the scenes, they are far more risk aware,” he said. “There is greater focus on contingency planning, remote working, and staff safety, and that is feeding into hiring decisions.” The legal recruitment market is moving in step with shifts in the war.