A new survey released by the American Bar Association (ABA) highlights how generative AI is beginning to transform the way law firms operate—though not without its share of hesitations.

According to the 2024 ABA Legal Technology Survey Report, AI is not replacing lawyers, but it’s certainly reshaping how they work. From contract reviews to strategic decision-making in litigation to legal research and drafting, law firms are exploring the diverse ways AI can be leveraged to enhance their practices.

Interestingly, the number of lawyers who believe AI is now mainstream in the profession has risen dramatically. In 2023, only 4% of respondents considered AI mainstream. But in 2024, that figure jumped to 13%, and 45% of those surveyed expect AI to be commonplace within the next three years. This surge in adoption is indicative of AI’s growing influence in law, especially as technology continues to improve.

Despite the optimism surrounding AI, many legal professionals remain cautious, and one of the primary barriers to adoption is the fear of inaccuracy. About 75% of those surveyed cited concerns about AI-generated “hallucinations”—or incorrect outputs—as a significant deterrent. This issue is one of the key reasons why some firms have been slow to integrate AI into their workflows.

Large firms, particularly those with over 500 attorneys, are leading the charge, with 46% of them utilizing AI tools. Smaller firms, including those with fewer than 50 attorneys, have lower adoption rates, with just 30% of mid-sized firms and 18% of solo attorneys employing AI. 

The use of AI tools also varies. ChatGPT is the most widely used tool, with 52% of firms either using or considering its use. Thomson Reuters CoCounsel and Lexis+ AI are also gaining traction, with 26% and 24% of firms, respectively, exploring these platforms.

Law firms looking to utilize generative AI in their practices should familiarize themselves with the ethical obligations associated with AI as set forth in 2024 FEO 1. Lawyers must remember that they have a duty to exercise independent judgment and must be competent to handle the representation. 

The AI journey in the legal profession is still in its early stages. While concerns about accuracy and reliability persist, there is no denying the growing interest and experimentation with AI in law firms. The future is likely to see more integration of AI tools with human oversight, creating a hybrid model that combines the strengths of both. As firms continue to adopt these tools and refine their processes, the hope is that AI will not just support but enhance the work of lawyers, allowing them to serve clients more efficiently and effectively.