Whether firms formally adopt automation tools or not, their staff teams are already using them. From document review to discovery, these tools handle routine tasks, freeing professionals to focus on strategic, high-value work. It’s second nature for digital natives and Gen Z lawyers — they’ve already used these tools in their studies and will continue to do so in practice. Rather than resist these changes, firms should embrace the leaders in legal tech.
One area that is particularly ripe for legal tech is patent law. Searching through hundreds of pages of patent applications is a lost art. The 2030 pharma patent cliff has two meanings: First, it’s the year a larger swath of pharma patents will expire. Secondly, it’s also the year the majority of Baby Boomers will retire. Legal tech that makes researching patents and querying to identify similarities and differences in existing patents are a no brainer to ensure patent law isn’t a dying art.
LEVERAGING AUTOMATION AND AI TOOLS RESPONSIBLY
Moving forward, as automation and AI tools become more widely utilized in the practice of law, using them responsibly is non-negotiable. Yes these tools improve productivity and streamline tasks, but they also raise challenges — especially around protecting sensitive client information and ethical conduct.
Continuous education is crucial for lawyers and staff to fully understand these tools’ capabilities, limitations and potential biases. When approached thoughtfully, automation can become a powerful ally, driving innovation while maintaining the trust and integrity to the legal profession.
DATA PROTECTION AND CYBERSECURITY REMAIN THE PRIME FOCUS
The adage goes with great power comes great responsibility. In the legal field, this goes beyond simply utilizing the right tools — it’s about earning and maintaining client trust while safeguarding sensitive information. In addition to routine regulatory compliance reviews and ongoing education, cybersecurity practices are essential, not optional. From secure file storage to encrypted
communication and regular assessments, protecting data is integral to upholding the integrity of any practice.
Staying ahead in 2025 isn’t just about keeping up — it’s about shaping what comes next. Keep learning! Also connect to others within and outside your field and understand the constantly changing reality.
In 2023, only 35% of firms conducted third-party security assessments, with even lower rates for solo practitioners. Responsible adoption starts with a good policy framework. Firms must ensure that their use of AI complies with confidentiality agreements regulatory requirements and professional ethical codes. This means partnering with reputable legal tech providers, setting clear usage guidelines and regularly auditing systems for compliance and security.
ATTRACTING NEW TALENT WITH LEGAL TECH
Today’s legal talent is looking for more than a paycheck — they’re looking for purpose. They are hungry for opportunities that will further their growth, give them a progressive and solution-oriented culture and equip them with tools and better ways to get their jobs done well.
Legal tech has a big role to play in meeting these expectations and it creates an environment where legal professionals can bill their clients for meaningful, high-impact work versus routine tasks. This new way of managing a team fosters a sense of autonomy and creative freedom, giving staff the tools to contribute in ways that matter.
In an industry where talent is in high demand, this focus on meaningful work and professional growth isn’t a nice-to-have but an absolute must-have. Firms that embrace tech will be the ones that attract and retain top talent in 2025 and beyond.
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
Technology has lowered the barriers to entry for many firms, and new players are entering the market with innovative, tech-driven solutions. To get noticed in this fiercely competitive environment, you must not only be a good legal practitioner, but you should also adopt technology, find newer ways to enhance the client experience and offer services that scream fresh and relevant.
Staying ahead in 2025 isn’t just about keeping up — it’s about shaping what comes next. Keep learning! Also connect to others within and outside your field and understand
the constantly changing reality. This is a time for building strategic partnerships with tech companies, attending events that stretch thinking and anticipating next-level client and market demands.
In the legal field, the way we respond to these shifts will determine where we go from here. By keeping us proactive and flexible, we can turn today's difficulty into tomorrow’s opportunity.
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Don’t miss out on Trending in Legal: ALA’s 2025 Virtual Event on February 24. We’ve got six cutting-edge speakers waiting to talk to you to make sure you’re heading down the right path in 2025! With sessions related to AI and building a diverse candidate pipeline, we’ll be discussing the hottest trends you’ll need to be on top of this year. Register today!
