Will AI Replace Lawyers?

AI won't replace lawyers entirely, but it will transform the profession. Routine tasks like document review, basic research, and contract analysis are already being automated. However, strategic judgment, courtroom advocacy, client relationships, and complex legal reasoning remain human domains. Lawyers using AI will replace lawyers who don't.

Document review attorneys and paralegals doing routine tasks face the most disruption. Junior associates doing basic research may see those tasks automated. Contract-heavy roles will change significantly. Least affected: trial lawyers, complex litigation, client relationship partners, and specialized practitioners.

Firms use AI for document review and e-discovery, legal research, contract analysis and drafting, due diligence, and predicting case outcomes. Some firms report automating 80%+ of document review. AI is a productivity tool that lets lawyers handle more work, not a replacement for legal judgment.

Learn to use AI tools effectively - most lawyers already are (85% use AI weekly). Focus on skills AI can't replicate: client relationships, strategic judgment, courtroom skills, negotiation. Specialize in complex areas. Learn to supervise and verify AI work. Position yourself as a legal advisor, not just a document producer.