Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionise the legal profession, with both advantages and challenges emerging. While AI offers efficiency in tasks like legal research, concerns exist over potential pitfalls and regulatory issues. Leading law firms and startups are actively incorporating AI, but the sector grapples with the costs and ethical considerations involved in this transformation.
The Impact of AI on the Legal Profession
Published: 19 October 2023
Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to significantly influence the legal profession, presenting both opportunities and challenges. A 2021 report from the UK’s Law Society predicted that AI could lead to substantial job reductions within the sector. A recent study by the universities of Pennsylvania, New York, and Princeton identified the legal industry as one of the most susceptible to AI disruption.
AI’s ability to rapidly process information and automate tasks could be advantageous in legal research and case preparation. However, examples such as New York lawyer Steven Schwartz, who mistakenly used AI-generated fake precedents, highlight potential pitfalls.
Leading law firms like Baker McKenzie are actively testing AI systems to enhance efficiency. They are integrating AI-powered tools like Microsoft’s 365 Solution for Legal and LexisNexis, launched in May. Despite the benefits, these tools come with significant costs.
Startups like RobinAI and Grapple are also leveraging AI for more specialized legal functions, from drafting contracts to providing public legal advice. RobinAI employs both externally developed and in-house AI models, while Grapple offers employment law advice.
AI’s capability to democratize legal services is notable. Tools like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard enable individuals to draft legal documents without incurring lawyer fees.
Nonetheless, legal challenges to AI tools, such as those faced by DoNotPay for practicing law without a license, and new US judicial requirements for AI disclosure, underscore the evolving regulatory landscape.
The adoption of AI in law is ongoing, with firms continuing to explore and validate its potential while navigating emerging legal and ethical considerations.
