Generative artificial intelligence

I

n a blockbuster year for large language models (LLMs), the legal sector has promptly risen to the challenges and opportunities presented by this disruptive technology. Despite the industry’s traditionally low-risk appetite for change — as well as continuing technical, ethical and governance uncertainties surrounding the use of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) — many firms are embracing technology’s latest seismic change with clear eyes and curious minds.

For our cover story, deputy editor Suzanna Hayek speaks with legal technology leaders at Bird & Bird, Brodies, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner and Travers Smith about how law firms are leveraging AI using both generative and extractive models — sparking a wave of innovative approaches to drive productivity and efficiency.

Industry experts we’ve spoken to weigh in with practical advice for law firms. At Peppermint, chief technology officer Mike Walker outlines four steps to success for adopting AI. Guy Adams, VP at Intapp, highlights the value of taking a strategic rather than tactical approach to AI. Aderant’s chief technology officer Andy Hoyt identifies key areas of opportunity for forward-looking firms to mine using automation as an accelerant.

We’ve also got case studies on how Litera is helping Reed Smith illuminate its data to power better business insight, and how Shoosmiths turns to MyCustomerLens to gain client feedback intelligence in an instant.

For more industry analysis insight, read iManage’s Jack Lees on how law firms can unleash the potential of retrieval-augmented generation, and how Jill Schornack at NetDocuments believes legal roles will evolve in the wake of AI.

So, sit back, relax, and feast on festive treats and the prospect of a world of work transformed by genAI.

Happy holidays from the Briefing team. See you in the new year — and with much more in store for 2024!

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