Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently become a transformative force across various industries, from automated entertainment to advanced chatbot technologies. However, the Indian legal sector has been relatively slow in embracing technological innovations. Lawyers often rely on traditional methods and solutions. The potential for AI to reshape how lawyers operate and integrate the law into their practice is immense.
One of the significant disruptions AI can bring to the legal field is in the domain of legal research. The Indian legal system is extensive and continually evolving, challenging lawyers to keep up with changes. AI can provide unparalleled insights into the legal domain within seconds, offering a game-changing solution. Traditional legal research methods demand substantial human hours, impacting the productivity of law firms. AI, on the other hand, can balance the scales for the entire legal fraternity. By employing AI platforms for research, tasks that once took hours can now be completed in minutes, making the quality of research more uniform.
Several Indian legal tech startups are at the forefront of incorporating Natural Language Processing (NLP)[1] into applications. These startups are introducing next-generation legal research platforms beyond simple, keyword-based research, making the process less time-consuming. Some of them have even established their own AI research labs, showcasing a commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the legal tech sector.
AI's potential disruption extends beyond legal research. It has the power to revolutionize how lawyers work, handle data, and operate. While the legal profession in India has been slow to adopt technological advancements, the ease of collecting, managing, and storing data has improved. AI can play a pivotal role in changing the traditional approaches lawyers use, making their workflows more efficient.
There is a common concern among lawyers and law firms that AI might replace human roles. However, the reality is different. AI is positioned to enhance productivity and efficiency for lawyers and law firms. Tasks like legal research, document review, and contract drafting can be automated, allowing legal professionals to focus on more strategic and complex aspects of their work, such as building relationships with clients and arguing cases in court.
The adoption of AI is not limited to law firms; it has also made its way into the Indian judiciary. The Supreme Court has been utilizing AI-controlled tools since 2021 to process information and make it available to judges for decision-making [2]. While these tools do not participate directly in the decision-making process, they serve as valuable aids in handling the vast amount of information involved in legal proceedings.
SUVAS (Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software) is one of the tools used by the Supreme Court of India [3]. It translates legal papers from English into vernacular languages and vice versa, facilitating a more accessible and efficient legal process.
For law firms, the development of AI technology offers an opportunity to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and focus on more strategic work. AI can handle mechanical and routine tasks such as document and contract review, legal research, and data analysis. This can lead to increased productivity and profitability. However, the implementation of AI may also decrease billable hours, especially for tasks that AI can handle effectively. This will give way to more transparent alternative fee arrangements.
While larger law firms may have the resources to implement AI systems, smaller firms might face challenges in keeping up with the costs of technology. Striking a balance between the benefits of AI and its financial implications will be crucial for law firms of all sizes.
As the legal sector in India begins to embrace AI, it is essential to consider the evolving role of lawyers, the impact on billable hours, and the potential for increased efficiency.
The integration of AI into legal processes holds the promise of transforming the sector, making legal services more accessible, efficient, and responsive to the dynamic needs of the community. While challenges exist, the ongoing efforts by legal tech startups and the judiciary indicate that the Indian legal sector is poised for significant growth and innovation in the coming years. As AI continues to evolve, its role in shaping the future of the legal sector in India will likely become even more pronounced.
Also Read on - https://bwlegalworld.businessworld.in/amp/article/Transforming-Effects-Of-AI-In-Legal-Sector-What-Experts-Say-/23-01-2024-507229/