Modern Law – Will AI replace lawyers?

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Law: A Tool for Efficiency, Not Replacement.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly gained prominence in the legal sector in recent years. Its integration within law firms has more than doubled compared to previous months, with many firms now allocating specific budgets for AI tools. [1]

AI's growing role in the legal profession.

Before the use of AI, solicitors carried out time-consuming tasks such as legal research and administrative work, diverting valuable hours away from more complex matters. To address this, many firms have adopted AI-driven tools capable of completing routine tasks far more quickly and efficiently, reducing work that once took hours to minutes.[2] This not only reduces human error but also increases client satisfaction, as AI systems can handle basic legal queries, offer 24/7 support, and schedule appointments, making the process far smoother for clients.[3]

A 2024 report on the legal sector and client relationships by Thomson Reuters noted that 41% of respondents were excited about the use of AI to improve client response times.[4] Additionally, 80% believed AI would have a high or transformational impact on their work within the next five years, and 72% viewed AI as a force for good in their profession.[5] Quick and efficient client engagement is increasingly seen as a key factor in client satisfaction and retention.

However, clients are becoming more AI-literate and want reassurance that these tools will not replace human judgment, remain secure, and continue to deliver high-quality advice. This highlights that AI is not here to replace lawyers, and clients still trust solicitors to handle complex legal reasoning and nuanced decision-making.[6]

How firms are using AI

One notable example is Harvey AI, a closed AI system currently used by over 500 law firms and corporate legal departments across more than 50 countries.[7] Its growing adoption shows that AI enhances legal work rather than replacing professionals, assisting with research, document drafting, and data analysis.[8] For instance, A&O Shearman uses Harvey AI to streamline internal processes, saving associates significant time that can instead be used on complex legal issues.[9] While AI excels at simplifying and accelerating routine work, it has not yet proven capable of handling intricate legal reasoning, reinforcing that AI is a tool to assist, not replace lawyers.

UK firm Shoosmiths has taken AI adoption even further by introducing a firm-wide incentive linked to its use. The firm announced a £1 million payout to staff if it achieves its target of reaching one million Co-Pilot prompts, an innovative initiative designed to encourage firm-wide engagement with AI technologies.[10]

Ethical and professional considerations.

Beyond efficiency, AI’s rise also raises important ethical and professional questions. Firms must ensure that AI systems operate transparently, maintain client confidentiality, and comply with data protection regulations. Solicitors must also be trained to understand the capabilities and limitations of these tools to use them responsibly. As such, the future of legal practice is likely to include AI literacy as a core professional skill, ensuring that technology complements rather than compromises ethical standards.

Ultimately, while AI is increasingly being used by firms, it is not explicitly replacing solicitors. Instead, it performs administrative tasks, freeing solicitors to focus on complex, high-value work. By answering client queries swiftly and efficiently, AI improves overall client satisfaction, which in turn can increase firm revenues as satisfied clients are more likely to remain loyal.

Final thoughts

The rise of AI in law is not just a passing trend; it is highly relevant to the modern legal profession. As firms face growing pressure to deliver faster, more cost-effective services, AI offers a practical and forward-thinking solution. However, the human element remains irreplaceable; successful firms will be those that integrate AI thoughtfully, using it to enhance, not undermine, the value of human expertise. The next few years will likely see the most innovative firms thriving not because they rely on AI, but because they use it wisely, striking the right balance between technological progress and professional judgment.