AI’s Influence on Legal Work: Transforming the Industry in 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries worldwide, and the legal sector is no exception.

In 2025, law firms across the UK are increasingly integrating AI tools into their daily operations, streamlining tasks and redefining how legal professionals work. From document analysis to case management, AI’s capabilities are proving transformative. Platforms like fixtureslive highlight how technology can organise complex schedules, and in the legal world, similar tools are gaining traction. Another resource, fixtureslive, exemplifies how structured data management can inspire efficiency—something AI brings to law firms in spades. Here’s a look at how AI is influencing legal work today, based on the latest advancements and adoption trends.

Automating Routine Tasks

One of the most significant changes AI brings to legal work is automation. Tasks that once took hours—such as reviewing contracts, drafting basic documents, or sorting through evidence—are now handled in minutes. Tools like Lexis+ AI and Thomson Reuters’ Westlaw Edge with CoCounsel use generative AI to scan thousands of pages, pulling out key clauses or precedents with precision. A 2024 survey by legal software provider Clio found that 62% of UK solicitors expect AI usage to rise in their firms, with many already relying on it for repetitive jobs. This shift allows junior lawyers and paralegals to focus on higher-value work, like strategy or client interaction, rather than getting bogged down in paperwork.

Enhancing Legal Research

Legal research, a cornerstone of the profession, has been turbocharged by AI. Traditionally, solicitors spent days combing through case law and statutes to build arguments. Now, AI-powered systems deliver answers in seconds. Westlaw Edge, for instance, introduced AI-Assisted Research in 2024, enabling lawyers to pose complex questions and receive concise, source-linked responses drawn from trusted legal databases. This cuts research time dramatically—sometimes from hours to under ten minutes—while maintaining accuracy. Firms report that this speed not only boosts productivity but also frees up time for billable hours, a win for both lawyers and clients.

Improving Case Management

Managing cases efficiently is another area where AI shines. In 2025, law firms are adopting AI tools to track deadlines, organise documents, and predict case outcomes based on historical data. Companies like Trialview, led by barrister Stephen Dowling, have developed systems that analyse courtroom transcripts in real time, flagging inconsistencies for lawyers to address on the spot. This technology reduces the need for large support teams in complex cases, such as commercial fraud trials. A single lawyer can now handle what once required a dozen, cutting costs and making justice more accessible, especially for smaller firms or clients with limited budgets.

Streamlining Client Interactions

AI is also changing how lawyers interact with clients. Chatbots and virtual assistants, powered by natural language processing, handle initial inquiries, gather client information, and even schedule meetings. The Westway Trust’s Cost of Living Crisis Clinic in London, for example, uses AI to summarise lengthy benefits assessments—sometimes 60 pages long—into key points within minutes. This allows paralegals to prepare cases faster and offer quicker advice to clients facing disputes with landlords or government agencies. Larger firms are following suit, integrating AI into client portals to provide real-time updates on case progress, enhancing transparency and trust.

Addressing Accuracy and Oversight

While AI’s benefits are clear, its integration isn’t without challenges. Accuracy remains a concern, as generative AI can occasionally “hallucinate”—producing plausible but incorrect outputs. A notable case in 2023 saw New York lawyers fined for submitting ChatGPT-generated arguments that didn’t hold up in court. In response, the legal sector is emphasising human oversight. The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) reported in 2023 that over 50% of UK lawyers use AI, but stressed the need for firms to understand its limits. Tools like those from Trialview and Westlaw now include source verification features, ensuring lawyers can double-check AI outputs against primary legal texts—a safeguard that’s become standard practice in 2025.

Reducing Costs and Increasing Access

Cost reduction is a major driver of AI adoption. By automating grunt work and speeding up research, firms can lower fees, making legal services more affordable. The BBC reported in December 2024 that AI tools could help bridge the “unfairness gap” in British justice, particularly for those unable to afford lengthy battles against wealthier opponents. Smaller firms, once priced out of advanced tech, now use affordable AI solutions to compete with industry giants. This democratisation of legal tools is reshaping the market, allowing more practitioners to serve a broader range of clients.

The Future of AI in Law

Looking ahead, AI’s role in legal work is set to grow. Gartner predicts a boom in the legal AI market by 2027, with tools evolving to handle more nuanced tasks like contract negotiation or risk assessment. Firms are investing in training to ensure staff can use these systems effectively, addressing the SRA’s 2025 warning about a digital skills gap. While AI won’t replace human lawyers—emotional connection and judgment remain irreplaceable—it’s clear that those who embrace it will lead the pack.

A New Era for Legal Professionals

In 2025, AI is no longer a futuristic concept for the legal sector—it’s a practical tool driving efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility. From automating mundane tasks to revolutionising research and case management, its influence is undeniable. As firms adapt, the balance between technology and human expertise will define the next phase of legal work, promising a more streamlined and equitable profession.