In a previous blog, I highlighted the simple, undeniable fact that the legal industry is broken, particularly in regard to our relationship with data and modern technology (or lack thereof). But today, it seems even more clear that as law firms continue to look the other way or drag their feet in adopting modernized solutions, many of which would positively transform multiple aspects of legal work to the benefit of both our clients and the industry at large, alternative and non-legal entities are quickly stepping in to reap the benefits of our apparent indifference and inability to solve these problems on our own.

With the recent explosion of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools, navigating AI’s role in the legal space is a more prominent and urgent discussion. AI, machine learning, and large language models (LLM) have become intertwined with our daily lives, transforming how we work and live.

Right now, law firms and attorneys worldwide are readying themselves in one way or another for the inevitable impact of artificial intelligence—including large language models like OpenAI's ChatGPT—on the legal profession's future. And while at this point, it's almost impossible to imagine a future in which AI doesn't play a significant role in the industry, it's also equally challenging to speculate with any confidence exactly what that role will be.

Litigation finance is rapidly expanding beyond single cases and offering comprehensive financial support to law firms. Maurice MacSweeney's article explores the reasons behind this growth, such as the increasing acceptance of outside financing as a valuable tool for legal professionals. He also notes that shifting regulations may expand access to non-legal entities.

As the legal community readies itself to move boldly into an uncertain future, there’s really no better way to settle into a disruptive mindset than to look around and acknowledge the very real—and very significant—acts of disruption taking place within our industry at this very moment.