How this law firm took a strategic approach to AI implementation

AI adoption in the legal sector: Swedish law firm Setterwalls has taken a strategic approach to incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) tools into their practice, recognizing the potential benefits and challenges of this emerging technology.

• Setterwalls initiated a pilot project to test three AI tools for lawyers, aiming to assess their practical applications and potential impact on legal work.
• The pilot revealed significant adoption rates, with 80% of the test group using generative AI more than once a week and 30% utilizing it multiple times daily.
• Following the successful pilot, Setterwalls expanded AI access to all 200 lawyers and provided AI support to an additional 100 staff members.

Implementation strategy and training: The firm prioritized a comprehensive and inclusive approach to AI integration, focusing on widespread adoption and proper usage.

• Setterwalls emphasized “democratization” by providing AI access to all employees, ensuring that the benefits of the technology were not limited to a select few.
• Mandatory training sessions were conducted in August to educate staff on the appropriate use of AI tools, highlighting the importance of proper implementation.
• The firm adapted existing guidelines to address AI-specific concerns and established contractual regulations with suppliers to maintain security and compliance.

Key applications and benefits: Setterwalls identified several areas where AI tools could enhance their legal services and operational efficiency.

• Text processing, research, information analysis, and personal assistance were highlighted as primary areas for AI implementation.
• The investment in AI technology aims to create value for clients by improving service delivery and efficiency.
• Setterwalls also views AI adoption as a strategy to attract future talent, recognizing the growing importance of technological proficiency in the legal profession.

Challenges and considerations: While embracing AI, Setterwalls remains mindful of the complexities and potential pitfalls associated with the technology.

• CIO Daniel Sandberg emphasized the importance of widespread adoption to justify the significant investment in AI tools.
• The firm maintains a realistic perspective on the pace of AI development, recognizing that the technology is still evolving and its full potential may take time to realize.
• Balancing the excitement surrounding AI with practical considerations and ethical guidelines remains a priority for Setterwalls.

Broader implications for the legal industry: Setterwalls’ approach to AI adoption reflects wider trends and considerations in the legal sector.

• Law firms are increasingly recognizing the potential of AI to transform traditional legal practices and improve client services.
• The focus on democratization and comprehensive training highlights the importance of cultural change and skill development alongside technological implementation.
• Setterwalls’ experience underscores the need for law firms to carefully evaluate and strategically implement AI tools to remain competitive and meet evolving client expectations.

Looking ahead: As AI continues to evolve, its impact on the legal profession is likely to grow, presenting both opportunities and challenges for firms like Setterwalls.

• The successful integration of AI tools may lead to increased efficiency, improved accuracy, and new service offerings in the legal sector.
• Law firms will need to continuously adapt their AI strategies, balancing innovation with ethical considerations and regulatory compliance.
• The experience of early adopters like Setterwalls will provide valuable insights for other firms considering AI implementation, potentially shaping industry-wide best practices.