Will AI Replace Lawyers?

AI handles document review, contract analysis, legal research, due diligence, regulatory compliance checking, and first drafts of standard documents. Tools like Harvey AI are being adopted by major law firms for these tasks.

AI may reduce demand for junior associates doing document review, potentially affecting entry-level opportunities. However, lawyers who effectively leverage AI to serve more clients or handle complex matters may increase their value.

Courtroom litigation, complex negotiations, client counseling, crisis management, and areas requiring deep business judgment remain human-centric. The more your work requires persuasion, strategy, and relationships, the more protected it is.

Law students should learn to use AI tools effectively while developing skills AI can't replicate: critical thinking, client relationships, oral advocacy, and ethical judgment. The profession is changing, not disappearing.