The UK’s largest law firms are ramping up their investment in artificial intelligence (AI), as new research has revealed that top firms have implemented AI tools and established teams to drive change in their organisation through AI and machine learning. 

The research from Thomson Reuters showed that 75% of firms had implemented third-party AI tools, while 50% have also built their own AI tools or customised existing platforms. 

Visibility and Perception 

AI usafe is no longer being kept behind the scenes. Every member of the top 20 firms has either published a dedicated AI report or hosted an AI-related event, while all but one actively promotes their AI credentials. Six firms have gone further by making venture capital-style investments in legal AI startups or launching in-house technology ‘incubators’. 

The Growing Gap Between the Top 20 and the Rest 

While firms outside the top 20 are engaging with AI, their approach appears more tentative. Just 60% promote their use of AI, and only half have adopted third-party tools. The contrast is most stark in how firms position themselves to advise clients. 65% of the top 20 now have dedicated advisory teams or heads of AI legal services, compared to only 15% of the next 20.  

The leadership gap extends to ethical frameworks as well. A third of top 20 firms have published AI ethics guidelines or codes of conduct for clients, while only 10% of the next group have done the same. 

Upskilling Workforces 

The top firms are also taking AI education seriously. Over half now provide formal AI training for their lawyers and business teams to ensure safe and effective use of tools. This focus on capability-building is helping firms adapt their services models, rethink pricing, and deliver more value to clients. 

Raghu Ramanathan, president of legal professionals at Thomson Reuters, said: 

“Top law firms recognise that it’s not just a question of adopting this technology but also ensuring training programmes are in place to use it effectively and responsibly.” 

Wider Sector Risks Being Left Behind 

With the elite firms continuing to surge ahead, the rest of the legal industry are running the risk of being left behind. It feels like now, more than ever, adopting some forms of AI technology into your organisation is a must-have if you are to remain competitive with your competitors and attractive to potential clients.  

Ramanathan emphasised this, stating: 

“A large majority of law firms now promote their distinction in the use of AI, just as they promote their expertise in specific service lines and industry sectors.”