Just a year ago, discussions around technology disrupting the legal industry felt like conversations between two generations—one envisioning a distant future where law and technology intersected more deeply. I recall attending an international legal tech conference where passionate professionals worldwide debated how technology, particularly open source and artificial intelligence, could improve legal practice. Back then, the future seemed far off.
Fast forward just one year, and the landscape has transformed dramatically. The pandemic accelerated digital adoption, making remote work, virtual classrooms, and online services the new norm. Suddenly, technology and legal practice are inseparable; one cannot thrive without the other. But beyond convenience, how do we truly feel about this integration?
As a recent law graduate, I have witnessed firsthand how technology has gradually disrupted legal practice—and even more so, how it has affected those who study, teach, and practice law. Tools that automate repetitive tasks have undeniably improved efficiency. However, for professionals like lawyers—whose work demands high cognitive skills—there is a growing concern: Will AI replace us?
From a client perspective, efficiency often translates to cost savings. Platforms like LegalZoom and WeVorce empower clients by simplifying legal processes and reducing expenses. Yet, few law schools prepare future lawyers to understand or leverage AI and algorithms. If not self-taught, many lawyers remain unfamiliar with these transformative tools.
A lawyer well-versed in AI can harness technology for tasks like e-discovery—rapidly scanning and predicting relevant documents—freeing valuable time to focus on client advocacy, legal writing, negotiation, and courtroom appearances. While this may impact billable hours, especially in large law firms, it ultimately fosters stronger lawyer-client relationships and greater client satisfaction.
Currently, many document review projects are outsourced to non-licensed professionals or third-party firms such as Epique. As Michael Mills of Neota Logic notes, law firm partners will increasingly lead hybrid teams where “more than one of the players will be a machine.”
Algorithms bring a welcomed concept to legal practice—efficiency. But machines require the human touch. Lawyers educated in AI will be the bridge, combining technological power with creativity, empathy, and social intelligence. These human traits will become even more vital as AI evolves.
While AI poses challenges to high-cognitive professions, the lawyers who thrive will be those who embrace technology without losing the uniquely human qualities that define exceptional legal counsel.