Getting real about AI in law: It's not just about the tech

Getting AI to stick in the legal world is a bit trickier than just rolling out a new software update. As Harvard Business Review wisely pointed out, "Robots won't replace people. But the people using robots will displace the people who aren't using robots." It means legal firms really need to think differently about how they handle this big change. It's not just about the tech itself, but about how law firms, as people, adapt to it and embrace it.

Why is AI adoption so slow in law? Let's break it down.

So, why does it feel like legal firms are often playing catch-up when it comes to AI? It's more than just a general fear of new tech. The legal sector has some pretty specific hurdles:

• "Lawyers are different" mentality: There's this sentiment that legal work is somehow special, ‘too complex’ for tech to mess with. Lawyers are trained to play it safe, focus on what's been done before, and sometimes that makes legal firms hesitant to try new things. Plus, there’s an attitude that if it wasn't "invented here," it's easy to dismiss. Let's also consider billable hours - if it makes lawyers more efficient, then great. But if it might seem like it's cutting into their earnings, it’s automatically a big mental block.
• Skill set shuffle: A lawyer's journey from education to career is not one that is typically used to prepare them for an AI-powered world. There is a lack in understanding how data works or building new systems, with a real shortage of individuals who can speak both "legal" and "tech." Plus, finding the time (and energy!) to learn new tech skills can feel like a huge ask for seasoned legal experts.
• Money talks: AI can be a big upfront investment, and it's not always clear how quickly companies will see that money come back. A firm's structure, focused on short-term profits, can make big tech bets seem risky. And yes, that fear of AI cutting into those billable hours is a real thing for many.

Bringing AI into a legal firm isn't just about plugging in new software. It's about a big shift in how people think, work, and organize themselves to make sure they land the transformation and make it stick!

A game plan for successful AI in law

So, how can you actually get AI to make a real impact in the legal sector? Law firms are utilising AI to make them more efficient, help them grow, and even transform what they do. 

Both generic AI tools (e.g., report summarization, workflow automation) and legal-specific solutions (e.g., e-discovery, contract analysis, compliance review) are adopted across law firms, but integration and outcomes do vary widely. This means focus needs to be on the adoption by people. 

1) Vision and leadership: The "why" of AI matters

First off, leaders in law firms need to step up. They've got to lay out a clear, exciting vision for how AI will change the firm – and importantly, why it matters to everyone. Senior partners need to be actively cheering on these initiatives, showing they're committed with resources and their own engagement. It also helps to have dedicated roles or teams (like a Chief Innovation Officer or Legal Engineer) who can speak both "legal" and "tech."  Leaders can help diminish the typical lack of empowerment by championing support for all users, which can allow AI strategies to successfully land across the firm.

2) Skills and training on AI: Learning for the future

Law firms need to help their people get ready for the AI era. That means solid training on what AI is, how data works, and how to think critically about these tools, not just how to click buttons. Let's weave AI learning into their daily work. Finding "AI champions" within the firm can be huge for mentoring and helping others. Executive assistants and junior lawyers have seen the most success in integrating AI into their daily work, often driving early adoption within firms. Let’s capitalize on these use cases and support others through the adoption journey. It’s important to showcase practical, trusted wins from within teams (e.g. peer-led) to overcome the scepticism that may be around the late adopters. This will build momentum and a culture of positivity. 

3) Managing the change that comes with AI 

While AI might help law firms with some parts of managing change, the human touch is still vital. Legal firms need to talk to people empathetically, addressing their fears and explaining how AI will free them up for more interesting, high-value work. Consider finding ways to incentivize people to adopt AI, maybe through performance reviews or recognition. Create a safe space where it's okay to try things and even "fail forward." Encourage lawyers, IT, and knowledge management folks to team up. Finally, teach everyone how to really think with AI – how to ask the right questions, check its answers, and then apply your legal judgment.

Embedding AI in law isn't a quick fix. It's a journey that needs a clear, unified leadership vision, good training (not just the tech, but teaching how people think), and most importantly, a people-first approach embodying AI in the work culture. By tackling these challenges head-on, law firms can make AI a real game-changer for their firms and our clients. 

If you need support with navigating AI, we offer end-to-end consulting services to fully integrate AI into your organization. Explore our AI consulting service, or get in touch to find out more.