What's Your AI Budget?

AI is rapidly changing client expectations, legal workflows, and the economics of legal practice—but the question is no longer simply whether law firms should adopt AI. As tech-savvy startups and general counsel increasingly expect lawyers to use AI effectively, firms must consider how to adopt it responsibly while protecting quality, professional judgment, and client value.

This practical session examines the real-world challenges facing firms that are already implementing AI, from measuring ROI and reconsidering the billable hour to managing AI-generated contracts and maintaining the value of professional legal advice. Participants will explore how lawyers can respond to increasingly sophisticated clients, balance efficiency with quality and enforceability, and demonstrate the value of legal expertise beyond what publicly available AI tools can produce. The session also considers what widespread AI adoption may mean for the future of the legal profession.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The changing expectations of clients and general counsel around legal AI
• Risks of delaying AI adoption and the fear of being left behind
• Responsible AI implementation within law firms
• Challenges and pain points experienced by early AI adopters
• AI, productivity, and the future of the billable hour
• Measuring AI return on investment and business value
• Servicing tech-savvy startups and technology-driven clients
• Risks and limitations of AI-generated contracts
• Balancing cost, efficiency, quality, and enforceability
• Demonstrating the value of lawyers beyond AI-generated outputs
• Maintaining professional judgment and client trust
• The long-term impact of AI on legal practice and the profession