Source: Fortune
Summary
A former Harvard Law School graduate described his early career experiences, including performing menial tasks like ensuring signature lines were the same length across documents. He noted that the legal industry has changed significantly, with artificial intelligence reshaping how law is practiced. Firms like Harvey and Legora have emerged as major players in legal tech, influencing the industry’s direction. The rise of AI has led to shifts in how lawyers work, with some leaving large firms to start their own tech-driven practices. The author believes AI will increase access to legal services and create new opportunities for lawyers.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Lawyers once billed for data entry. Now they build AI tools.
BigLaw is hiring engineers. Firms are acting like tech companies.
Top lawyers are leaving for smaller, tech-driven firms.
The industry is changing faster than the old guard can keep up.
Author: Evan Null
Early Career and Disillusionment
The author began his career with high hopes, inspired by the portrayal of lawyers in media. He attended Harvard Law School and was excited about his future in the legal profession. However, his first job involved tedious tasks like ensuring signature lines were the same length across 18 documents. The firm billed clients over $600 an hour for this work, highlighting the inefficiencies in the legal industry.
The Rise of AI in Law
The legal profession has changed significantly since the author’s graduation. Artificial intelligence is now reshaping the way lawyers work, despite its current limitations. Firms like Harvey and Legora have emerged as leaders in legal tech, with valuations reaching billions of dollars. These companies are acting more like tech firms, sponsoring sports leagues and using celebrity spokespeople.
Shift in Industry Dynamics
The introduction of AI has forced law firms to adapt their business models. Some top lawyers are leaving large firms to start their own tech-driven practices. Chris Kercher, for example, left Quinn Emanuel to launch a smaller, tech-focused firm. This trend reflects a broader shift in how legal professionals view their careers and the value of traditional law firm structures.
Impact on Legal Access and Opportunities
The author believes AI will democratize access to high-quality legal services, reducing the influence of major law firms. This shift could make legal services more accessible to a wider range of clients. Young attorneys now have more opportunities to leverage their skills outside of traditional law firms, creating new paths for career growth and professional fulfillment.
Excitement and Transformation
The author sees the current era as an exciting time for lawyers, with the legal industry undergoing a transformation. He runs an AI-powered law firm and receives hundreds of applications from ambitious students eager to participate in this change. The legal profession, once seen as a closed and hierarchical system, is opening up to new possibilities and broader participation.
