A law firm is pioneering an innovative approach by tasking trainee solicitors with identifying and solving problems through artificial intelligence (AI).
At the forefront of this initiative, the firm has effectively harnessed the potential of its trainees to develop solutions using AI, presenting these innovations directly to management. The first six-month programme, which concluded in August, resulted in five proofs of concept and the identification of 48 additional challenges where AI could be transformative.
Martin Hasler, the innovation manager, explains that the firm’s 26 trainees, working from offices in Bristol, London, and Birmingham, have delved into generative AI applications. These trainees, blending both fresh and seasoned perspectives, embarked on their journey by exploring the firm’s operations to pinpoint areas ripe for AI integration.
An example of their pioneering work includes the development of an AI meeting assistant. This tool potentially halves the time trainees spend on manual meeting note-taking, allowing them to actively engage during sessions. The pilot phase for this tool is concluding, with hopes for firm-wide adoption imminent. Similarly, in the commercial property department, a tool is under trial to expedite the drafting of reports on title via AI, promising to cut report creation time by half.
Additionally, trainees have tested AI solutions to streamline billing by generating timely reports on work in progress and another tool designed to enhance document management, making the retrieval of precedents or previously drafted documents more efficient.
Mr Hasler emphasises the professional growth experienced by the trainees through this initiative, noting a significant boost in confidence as they present their business cases to a management committee. This opportunity is unique for trainees, providing them with critical exposure and a chance to influence the integration of AI tools across different departments.
Looking ahead, the programme signifies an evolution in legal practice, underlining the importance for future legal professionals to grasp AI technologies. As Mr Hasler acknowledges, these trainees are the future leaders within the firm, and mastering AI is essential for their development and the firm’s continued innovation.
The integration of AI in legal practices is not just about technological advancement but equipping future lawyers with the necessary skills to lead. This programme sets a precedent, fostering both technological and professional growth.
