TLDR: New research by Thomson Reuters reveals that the largest law firms are aggressively adopting and promoting artificial intelligence. Three-quarters of the top 20 firms utilize third-party AI tools and maintain dedicated internal AI/machine learning teams. Over half provide AI skills training, and all have published AI reports or hosted related events. These firms are also leading in advising clients on AI and establishing ethical frameworks, significantly outpacing smaller counterparts. Additionally, CILEX has launched an AI Academy to provide specialized training for its members.
The legal sector’s embrace of artificial intelligence (AI) is being spearheaded by its largest firms, according to new research from Thomson Reuters. These leading practices are not only integrating AI into their operations but are also actively showcasing their commitment to the technology.
A substantial three-quarters of the top 20 law firms have implemented third-party AI-powered tools, demonstrating a clear move towards leveraging external innovations. Furthermore, these firms have established dedicated internal teams focused on digital transformation through AI and machine learning, highlighting a strategic, in-house commitment to technological advancement. A significant 45% of these top-tier firms have gone a step further, developing their own AI tools or customizing existing ones through joint ventures, indicating a proactive approach to AI development rather than just adoption.
Investment in human capital is also a priority, with over half (55%) of the top 20 firms providing AI skills training for their staff. This focus on upskilling ensures that their workforce is equipped to effectively utilize and manage AI technologies. Beyond internal development, six of the top 20 firms have made venture capital-style investments in AI companies or created incubators dedicated to AI innovation, signaling a broader strategic interest in the AI ecosystem.
The research also reveals a strong emphasis on public engagement and thought leadership. Every single firm within the top 20 has either published an AI report or hosted an AI-related event. Moreover, all but one actively promotes its use of AI, underscoring the importance of being perceived as technologically advanced in the competitive legal landscape. These figures significantly surpass those of the next 20 largest firms, where 60% promote AI use and half have adopted third-party tools.
Beyond internal operations, the top 20 firms are strategically positioning themselves as advisors on AI-related matters. A notable 65% have established new divisions or appointed a head of AI legal advice, a stark contrast to just 15% of the next 20 firms. Ethical considerations are also being addressed, with 35% of top 20 law firms publishing an AI ethics framework or code of conduct for clients, compared to only 10% in the subsequent group.
Raghu Ramanathan, president of legal professionals at Thomson Reuters, commented on these trends, stating, “A large majority of law firms now promote their distinction in the use of AI, just as they promote their expertise in specific service lines and industry sectors… Top law firms recognise that it’s not just a question of adopting this technology but also ensuring training programmes are in place to use it effectively and responsibly.”
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In a related development, CILEX has launched the CILEX AI Academy, a partnership with online learning platform 5Mins.ai, to provide personalized AI training to its members. This academy offers short sessions on generative AI tools, prompt engineering, AI ethics, data security, and professional responsibility. Toby Moseley, CILEX commercial director, emphasized the academy’s importance: “No one doubts the significant impact AI is having on the legal sector but outside the UK’s largest firms, many risk getting left behind as they struggle to keep on top of new developments and the urgent need to upskill staff. Traditional training options aren’t always able to keep up with the pace of change, so the new academy is designed to evolve to ensure that employees are trained on the most up-to-the-minute information.” This initiative underscores a broader recognition within the legal profession of the urgent need for AI literacy and adaptation.
