The Non-Billable Podcast What lawyers really want from AI: ex-Freshfields lawyer turned legal tech leader on what we’re getting wrong
Mar 25, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Jack Shepherd, a former Freshfields lawyer now leading innovations at iManage, shares his unique insights on AI in the legal field. He emphasizes practical applications of technology that truly address lawyers' daily challenges, rather than succumbing to AI hype. Jack champions the importance of project management skills and strategic AI adoption to enhance efficiency without undermining critical thinking. He also discusses how junior lawyers can future-proof their careers in this rapidly evolving landscape.
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Cutting Through Hype in Legal AI
- Legal tech hype often inflates AI’s disruptive potential to replace lawyers, fueling social media frenzy.
- Real legal work complexity demands thoughtful AI partnerships, not replacement fears.
Lawyers as Trusted Project Managers
- Project and transaction management is a key lawyer responsibility trusted by clients, underpinning legal advisory roles.
- Lawyers are often the safe pair of hands clients rely on, not easily replaced by tech or AI.
Law Firms and SaaS Legal Services
- Law firms could productize expertise via SaaS but lack scale, customer success, and marketing capabilities.
- Tech firms underpin such SaaS, but data and experience will distinguish law firm competitive advantage.
