Extract from Jason Primuth’s article “How AI Is Reshaping the Practice of Law”
AI-empowered technology has been transforming mission-critical business operations across sectors for years, and today, its influence is being felt in the legal profession. While corporate sectors have embraced AI solutions fairly rapidly, law firms are taking a more measured approach—and they should. The legal profession must give thorough consideration to data privacy and the sometimes-complex process of integrating technology into traditional workflows. But the firms that are doing so successfully are finding themselves at a distinct advantage over their peers.
The transition to electronic court filing in the mid-2000s provides an excellent example of how lawyers have adapted to technological advancements in the past. While initially met with apprehension, electronic filing is now widely viewed as one of the safest and most efficient methods for handling legal matters. This evolution highlights that while change can be challenging, it often benefits the profession in the long run.
Overcoming Resistance to Technology in Law Firms
Adopting new technologies in the legal profession can come with some natural hesitation. Concerns around billing models, regulatory issues, risk management, and implementation are valid, given the profession’s responsibility for precision and ethical stewardship. However, as clients increasingly demand cost-effective and efficient legal services, innovative solutions, including those based on generative AI, are emerging as essential instruments for lawyers, not just optional enhancements.
