The legal sector is experiencing a significant shift, driven by digital transformation and the increasing integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning. This automation is eliminating some traditional legal jobs while creating a demand for lawyers with more sophisticated human capabilities, such as critical analysis, leadership, collaboration, and empathy. Michael Davison of Hogan Lovells emphasizes the need for lawyers to question data and exercise judgment, while Patricia Manca of PwC Tax & Legal Services Spain highlights the necessity of digital skills, design thinking, legal management, and innovation.
Evolving client expectations, particularly from general counsel who are becoming strategic business advisers, are also reshaping the legal profession. These in-house lawyers now seek external legal partners with a broader set of skills, including adaptability, strong relationship-building, and the ability to create value through legal initiatives. James Anderson of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom notes the importance of political acumen and the ability to navigate geoeconomic shifts, like trade policies and sanctions, which increasingly have legal dimensions.
The widespread adoption of AI, with some firms like Ashurst reporting 60% daily usage, means law firms and in-house teams must learn to blend human expertise with digital tools. This requires multidisciplinary teams of lawyers, project managers, and technologists working collaboratively. Companies now expect in-house lawyers to act as "translators" bridging law, strategy, and technology, and to collaborate with senior data and information security executives, indicating a need for a broader understanding of organizational functions. Initiatives like the O Shaped Lawyer project aim to address these needs by developing programs focused on communication, relationship-building, and broader professional development.
