How Lawyers Can Stand Out and Add Value in the Age of AI

Will artificial intelligence replace humans in the workplace? Will lawyers become obsolete? It can be tough to not get caught up in the AI media hype. It's not strictly hyperbole, after all; with the advent of generative AI tools, the legal profession is at the cusp of a radical transformation.

But instead of fearing the ultimate doomsday scenario regarding AI, young attorneys would be wise to shift their perspective a bit. After all, the simplification of legal work started decades ago with the emergence of LexisNexis and Westlaw—tools that exponentially accelerated legal research. AI is yet another step forward in law practice efficiency, a way to release lawyers from mundane, administrative work and allow them to focus more on strategic and advisory activities. Already, the technology is streamlining time-consuming tasks like data analysis, e-discovery, legal memorandums, due diligence, and contract drafting. AI also has the potential to help legal professionals stay on top of ever-changing regulations, improve risk management, and reduce barriers to growth opportunities.

As AI gains steam, lawyers who want to stand out in this job market must embrace these new tools with zeal. But they should never stop pitching the unique value they bring to employers as seasoned problem solvers, risk advisors, and strategic thinkers.

Below are seven ways you can prepare to market yourself with impact.

How can you prepare to thrive as a lawyer alongside AI?

1.     Stay on top of the latest AI developments.

Savvy lawyers understand where AI-driven technologies can be useful in making their work more effective and efficient. They also have a firm grasp on its limitations and weaknesses, potential risks and pitfalls, and global implications. To make sure you have a well-rounded understanding of legal AI, dive straight into the fire and learn as much as you can.

Adding AI-centric credentials and certifications to your resume won’t hurt, either, as it can immediately set you apart from other candidates. UNESCO offers a free online course on AI and the rule of law, featuring 20 legal and technology experts from across the globe. Participants receive a certificate of completion after all modules are finished. If you’re a data privacy lawyer, Artificial Intelligence Governance Professional (AIGP) certification is now available along with CIPP/US and CIPP/E certification (which are increasingly preferred).

Since things are changing so quickly, you’ll also want to stay active in the AI conversations happening all around you by attending industry conferences, participating in forums, and staying active on social media. Also, consider subscribing to legal technology blogs like Artificial Lawyer or Legaltech News.

2.     Build your AI technical proficiency.

Knowing how to interact with AI tools like Harvey AI or ChatGPT is just as vital as understanding their business and legal implications. This requires having a solid grasp of “prompt engineering,” which involves asking very targeted, carefully crafted legal questions designed to optimize AI-generated text, recommendations, and insights. Achieving fluency in prompt engineering is at the core of obtaining reliably accurate and ethical AI output. As AI becomes more integrated into everyday practice, it’s a must for future-proofing your legal skillset. Courses in prompt engineering, both free and paid, are readily available online (see Appendix). Keep in mind that learning the “art” prompt engineering is an ongoing process as the AI field and its technologies evolve.

3.     Learn data analytics skills.

AI software tools can evaluate large volumes of information with incredible speed and accuracy. Legal data analytics is the science of interpreting the resulting insights and applying them to everyday practice. Analytics allow lawyers to make more informed decisions with respect to billing, contract review, litigation, due diligence, and more, improving internal efficiency and elevating client service. Building your data analysis skillset is a sound investment that will enhance your resume and showcase your ability to make data-driven legal decisions.

4.     Take note of your specific accomplishments.

When you’re exploring new opportunities as an associate, it’s important to showcase your accomplishments—both qualitative and quantitative. These might include helping to resolve a complex contract dispute, saving your firm a certain amount of money through system improvements, or instances where you've gone above and beyond for a client. These achievements demonstrate your understanding of legal frameworks and effective case management as well as your dedication to client satisfaction.

5.     Hone your public speaking skills.

Client organizations are feeling overwhelmed with all the 'white noise' surrounding AI and its legal implications. They're looking for credible guidance from trusted advisors in the legal community. As a lawyer, you can position yourself as a thought leader in the AI legal space and job market by building your knowledge and getting your face, name, and perspectives out there (think LinkedIn, conferences, videos, webinars, and other platforms). This is an excellent way to bolster your confidence while expanding your professional network.

6.     Market your emotional intelligence.

Robots cannot replicate empathy, compassion, creativity, and other things that make us human. As artificial intelligence seeps into nearly every aspect of our daily lives and work, focus on building the qualities that set you apart from the technology. Some examples of this are improving your conflict management skills, thinking of others (before yourself), practicing active listening, and learning how to be more aware of your own behaviors, feelings, and opinions.

7.     Be curious, flexible, and creative.

A big part of adapting to AI is achieving the right mindset. Lawyers who are married to the status quo and resistant to change will find themselves spinning their wheels—or worse, get left behind. On the other hand, if you approach AI with an open mind—and an eagerness to learn—you’ll be more empowered to use the technology in innovative ways. AI is only in its infancy. We haven’t even scratched the surface of how it can help us maximize our time and talents and create transformative change in the legal profession.

Don’t rage against the machines—rise above them

When AI uncertainty strikes, it’s important to ask ourselves, “What does a lawyer bring to the table?” It’s not the ability to perform non-substantive, repetitive tasks. Rather, it’s things a machine can’t replicate—like bold leadership, deep human experience, critical thinking skills, and refined intuition. These attributes allow lawyers to understand complex, nuanced scenarios and advise clients in a thoughtful and creative manner.

AI is raising the bar for legal practice, and its implications for the profession are promising. But real legal expertise is irreplaceable. By learning the technology—and selling the complex human skills and talents that make you a great business partner and advisor—you’ll be set to succeed in the AI era.