The AI Revolution in Legal: How Firms Can Adapt and Stay Competitive

Our 2025 Legal Hiring Guide provides legal recruiting teams with key insights into the evolving legal hiring landscape, offering a strategic look at what’s ahead. While the guide explores several key trends, this article focuses on Trend #2: The Age of AI.

Generative AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s reshaping the legal industry. From legal research to contract review, AI-driven tools are streamlining workflows and transforming how attorneys and legal support teams operate.

But with this rapid evolution comes critical questions: How will AI impact legal careers? Is the industry ready for this shift? And what can firms do to prepare their teams for the future?

The Rise of Generative AI in Legal Practice

When ChatGPT passed the Uniform Bar Examination in July 2022, it sent shockwaves through the legal profession, proving that AI could engage with complex legal reasoning. Since then, AI-driven platforms have rapidly advanced, offering capabilities such as:

• eDiscovery & Document Review – AI-powered tools can analyze vast amounts of legal documents in minutes, identifying key information with greater efficiency and accuracy.
• Legal Research & Drafting – AI can assist with case law analysis, contract drafting, and even summarizing depositions.
• Administrative Automation – From scheduling to billing, AI can streamline back-office tasks, freeing up time for more strategic work.

The Impact of AI on Legal Teams

For some, the rise of automation sparks concern—Will AI replace legal professionals? Is it a threat to job security?

The reality is quite the opposite. AI isn’t replacing lawyers; it’s augmenting their work. By automating time-consuming tasks, attorneys and support staff can shift their focus to higher-value activities like client advising, case strategy, and business development.

However, with these advancements come new challenges. According to our Workforce Trends Survey, while most legal professionals view AI positively, only 31% are confident that their skills will remain relevant in five years. The industry must address this growing skills gap—and that starts with upskilling and continuous learning.

How to Future-Proof Your Legal Team

To stay competitive in this AI-driven era, law firms must invest in ongoing development and strategic workforce planning. Here’s how:

• Offer Comprehensive Skills Development – Incorporate training on AI literacy, data analysis, and emerging legal tech into professional development programs. When hiring, prioritize soft skills like critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving—skills that AI cannot replicate.
• Promote Continuous Learning – Encourage a learning culture with online courses, workshops, and mentorship programs. Work with employees to create individualized career development plans that align with both their goals and the firm’s needs.
• Communicate the Benefits of AI – Transparency is key. Keep employees informed about how AI will enhance their roles, not replace them. Involve staff in the selection and implementation of new AI tools to increase buy-in and reduce apprehension.

Need a Partner in Legal Talent and Development?

By proactively addressing skill gaps and fostering a growth mindset, law firms can empower their teams, drive innovation, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing legal landscape.

If you’re looking to enhance your legal development programs—or need support in hiring top attorney and legal support talent—we can help. Within the Legal division of LHH, 86% of our team has prior legal practice experience, and 81% have worked in law firms, including AmLaw 100 firms. Let’s connect today.