Posted by Robert Blech, a professional practices partner at Legal Futures Associate MHA
Blech: The future is not human v machine but how they integrate
The UK legal sector is an established and traditional institution. Whilst now it may not be fully embracing artificial intelligence (AI), its presence can now not be ignored by the profession.
AI has established a foothold in the daily operations of many law firm, from larger entities to boutique specialists. As solicitors adapt to changing client expectations, regulatory pressures and daily demands, AI is increasingly seen as something the profession cannot ignore.
Historically, UK law firms have been slow to adopt changing technologies, citing concerns around data security, accuracy and responsibility. However, in the post-pandemic landscape, where remote work and digital workflows are the norm, AI is moving from the periphery to the centre of legal operations.
Leading firms have made significant investments in AI tools, particularly in transactional practices where time savings can directly impact profitability. Simultaneously, mid-tier and regional firms are leveraging more accessible cloud-based legal tech platforms to remain agile and competitive.
AI’s impact is most visible in functions that are traditionally time-consuming, resource-heavy and susceptible to human error. These include contract analysis, legal research and predictive modelling.
While the benefits of AI are clear to see, they come with professional and ethical implications. Concerns around algorithmic transparency, data bias and client confidentiality all must be addressed. The use of AI must also align with obligations under the code of conduct – especially around competence, supervision and client care.
In response, the regulators are actively developing guidance to support firms in navigating these challenges. AI must be used as a complement to, not a replacement for, human legal expertise.
It is important that trainees in the legal profession are encouraged into the industry and taught by people who have the relevant knowledge and experience. AI can never replace relationships between service provider and client.
The future of legal practice in the UK will not be defined by human versus machine, but by how effectively the two are integrated. AI is well suited to manage high-volume, low-value tasks, freeing solicitors to focus on complex analysis and strategic advice, the aspects of legal work that clients value most and that machines cannot replicate.
In 2025, AI is still developing and is improving all the time but is not the mature service that can be totally relied upon. There is the possibility that if you are using two differing AI tools, inputting the same question into both may result in differing answers, neither of which may be correct. It should therefore should still be used with caution.
However, law firms’ adoption of AI is no longer a question of if, but when and how well. As the technology progress, so too must the profession.
Law practices do not want to be in a situation where their competitors are utilising AI which making their offering more efficient and cost effective. The real danger is being left behind.
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