Can AI be used to help my law firm grow?

Since the introduction of platforms such as CHATGPT, the use of AI technologies in the workplace has become increasingly common, with one in four workers admitting to using AI on a weekly basis. However, this has also led to concern among workers, with “75% of employees stating that they are concerned AI will make certain jobs obsolete,” a number that will likely increase alongside further AI advancements. 

Within the legal sector, the use of AI also brings up ethical concerns. For example, it could breach privacy laws and regulations when used in casework. Furthemore, AI tools are not immune to bias, depending on the information they have been fed. As such, “when this information is used in the practice of law, it can lead to unfair outcomes and perpetuate discrimination.” 

Despite this, there are many ways in which AI can be used (ethically) within your law firm! 

Using AI to boost productivity.

AI assistants, no matter how intelligent they seem to be, will never replace the role of a lawyer or paralegal. This is because the role itself requires a range of uniquely human skills, in addition to legal know-how. However, lawyers can deploy AI assistants effectively to boost their productivity and make more efficient use of their time. Given that the vast majority of lawyers experience burnout, this can be a real game-changer for your firm.

For example, various studies have found that AI can be used effectively within the legal sector when it comes to document processing and research. For example, paralegals can upload legal documents (that do not contain personal/classified information), and ask the AI tool to “scan documents using search terms or specific parameters, such as dates or geographic location.” This means that they can find the information they are looking for within mere seconds. 

Using AI to Improve Client Relationships.

AI technologies can also be used to improve client-attorney relationships, especially when it comes to communication. For example, incorporating AI-powered chatbots onto your firm’s website ensures that potential clients receive a speedy response to their questions. It also reduces the amount of time that lawyers would otherwise have to spend on clearing their inboxes, and can help quite significantly when it comes to lead generation and sourcing new clients.

AI technologies can also be used to draft emails and messages, ensuring that they are free from grammatical errors and spelling mistakes and that all of the necessary information is included.

Final Thoughts.

While it is natural to have some reservations in place when it comes to using AI technology, especially within the legal field, there are plenty of instances when its use is not only appropriate but beneficial when it comes to growing your law firm. As such, it is something that law firms should invest in moving forward!

If you’re looking for other ways to grow your firm, start by getting your finances in order. Get in touch today to find out how we can help!