Lawyers Adopt Technology Based on Client Needs

Lawyers Adopt Technology Based on Client Needs

The stereotype that lawyers are technologically illiterate is misleading, argues litigator Andy Greene in an article by Nextpoint. Historically, lawyers adopt technology (email, Blackberries, cloud-based tools, AI-enhanced legal research, etc.) to meet client expectations and maintain competitiveness. However, law firms are not typically early adopters, and this cautious approach is justified as lawyers must ensure technology is reliable and safe for client use.

The perception that lawyers are slow to adopt technology partly stems from frustrated technologists whose innovations fail to gain traction due to a lack of understanding of the legal profession’s specific needs. 

For instance, Greene’s failed attempts at document automation revealed that many legal tasks are highly customized and cannot be easily automated. This skepticism extends to emerging technologies like Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), where overstated claims about their utility in drafting legal documents reflect a misunderstanding of lawyers’ work.

To develop successful legal tech, Greene recommends understanding the diverse sub-markets within the legal sphere, pricing models that reflect usage patterns, and ensuring compatibility with existing data workflows. He emphasizes the importance of considering the entire legal process rather than just automating isolated tasks. By addressing these factors, legal tech can more effectively serve lawyers’ needs and enhance their efficiency.

Ultimately, while lawyers may joke about their aversion to technology, it’s crucial to recognize their pragmatic approach and the unique challenges they face. Progress in legal tech requires a nuanced understanding of these factors rather than relying on clichés about technophobia.