The legal profession, traditionally known for its cautious approach to new technologies, is experiencing a significant shift with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). A recent survey conducted in February 2025 reveals that AI adoption among lawyers has seen a remarkable increase, with 46% of legal professionals using the technology for work and a further 38% planning to use it in the near future. This marks a substantial rise from previous years, where only 11% of lawyers were using AI in July 2023.
The adoption of generative AI in the legal sector varies significantly across different segments, reflecting the diverse needs and capabilities of various legal practices. The survey data provides a detailed look at how different segments are embracing AI technology, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that remain. This blog will look at AI adoption rates across the different areas of the legal industry.
Small law firms, including solo practitioners, have shown a moderate level of AI adoption, with 37% of respondents indicating they are currently using generative AI tools. Interestingly, a higher percentage (42%) plan to adopt AI in the future, suggesting a growing recognition of its potential benefits. However, 18% of small law practitioners still express no intention to adopt AI, indicating some resistance or resource constraints in this segment.
Medium-sized law firms demonstrate a slightly higher adoption rate, with 42% of lawyers already using AI tools. This segment also shows a strong inclination towards future adoption, with 43% planning to integrate AI into their practices. The relatively low percentage (13%) of those with no plans to adopt AI suggests that medium-sized firms are increasingly aware of the competitive advantages AI can offer.
Large law firms lead the way in AI adoption, with 50% of respondents already utilising generative AI tools. This high adoption rate reflects the resources and strategic focus that large firms can dedicate to technological innovation. Additionally, 38% of lawyers in large firms plan to adopt AI, while only 11% have no plans to do so, indicating a strong commitment to leveraging AI for enhanced service delivery and efficiency.
In-house corporate legal teams are at the forefront of AI adoption, with a remarkable 72% of respondents using generative AI tools. This high adoption rate underscores the value that AI brings to corporate legal departments, particularly in terms of efficiency and decision-making. Only 3% of in-house lawyers have no plans to adopt AI, highlighting the widespread acceptance of AI's benefits in this segment.
Public sector legal teams show a more cautious approach to AI adoption, with only 31% currently using generative AI tools. However, 38% plan to adopt AI in the future, indicating a growing interest in its potential applications. Notably, 31% of public sector lawyers have no plans to adopt AI, reflecting potential budgetary constraints or regulatory considerations that may impact adoption in this segment.
Academic legal professionals exhibit a balanced approach to AI adoption, with 50% already using generative AI tools. This segment also shows a strong interest in future adoption, with 33% planning to integrate AI into their work. The relatively low percentage (11%) of those with no plans to adopt AI suggests that academia is increasingly recognising the value of AI in research and education.
The Bar presents a unique challenge in terms of AI adoption, with only 28% of respondents currently using generative AI tools. However, a significant 44% plan to adopt AI, indicating a growing awareness of its potential benefits. The relatively high percentage (27%) of those with no plans to adopt AI suggests that traditional practices and regulatory considerations may still pose barriers to adoption in this segment.
Overall, the adoption rates across segments reveal a dynamic landscape where different legal practices are at varying stages of embracing AI technology. While large law firms and in-house corporate teams are leading the charge, other segments are gradually recognizing the transformative potential of AI, albeit at different paces. As the legal sector continues to evolve, understanding these adoption trends will be crucial for stakeholders seeking to navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by AI.
The primary motivation for lawyers to embrace AI is the promise of increased efficiency and improved client service. According to the survey, 71% of lawyers cited delivering work faster as a key driver for using generative AI. AI tools can automate repetitive tasks, allowing lawyers to focus on more complex and strategic aspects of their work. Nick West, Chief Strategy Officer at Mishcon de Reya, highlights that AI can help lawyers allocate time to higher-value tasks, ultimately enhancing client service.
The rise of AI adoption among lawyers marks a significant turning point for the legal profession. While challenges remain, the potential benefits of AI are undeniable. By embracing AI, law firms can enhance efficiency, improve client service, and gain a competitive advantage. As the legal sector continues to navigate this technological revolution, strategic planning, training, and leadership will be key to unlocking the full potential of AI.
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