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Billable hour down, AI up

06 November 2024
Issue: 8093 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Artificial intelligence
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The use of artificial intelligence (AI) by solicitors is now universal, with almost all—96%—of 500 UK solicitors surveyed confirming their firm uses AI in their processes in some way

Moreover, 62% of solicitors anticipate an increase in use of AI in the next 12 months. In terms of where AI is used, 36% use it for document drafting and automation, 29% for contract review and analysis, 24% for general non-legal activities, 20% for e-discovery and 17% legal research.

The research, commissioned by tech company Clio for its latest ‘Legal trends report’, published this week, also highlighted a swing towards fixed-fee rather than hourly billing. Some 54% of solicitors surveyed expect this trend to continue due to client expectations and more focus on efficiency.

Clio CEO Jack Newton said: ‘AI might finally be the death knell for the billable hour. Fixed fee billing, which many law firms are already embracing, may become even more common as AI further automates workflows and reduces reliance on hourly billing.’

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Carey Olsen—Kim Paiva

Carey Olsen—Kim Paiva

Group partner joins Guernsey banking and finance practice

Morgan Lewis—Kat Gibson

Morgan Lewis—Kat Gibson

London labour and employment team announces partner hire

Foot Anstey McKees—Chris Milligan & Michael Kelly

Foot Anstey McKees—Chris Milligan & Michael Kelly

Double partner appointment marks Belfast expansion

NEWS
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