Last week in London, at the Legal Innovators UK event, I noticed that something had shifted. After nearly a decade of advocating for AI in law, we are finally witnessing what many of us have long advocated: AI in legal practice is no longer theory. It’s reality.
When Caroline and I started Uncover Legal, an AI startup for lawyers recently acquired by Opus 2, the atmosphere was very different. Back then, our mission was equal parts innovation and education. I remember feeling genuinely astonished by how hesitant lawyers were to embrace AI-driven tools.
How could they not see what we saw? Having been a lawyer for 10 years, I can say lawyering is about reading, analysing, and generating text—precisely what large language models (LLMs) excel at. Lawyers are intelligent and analytical. Surely, I thought, they would understand that LLMs, by nature, would learn so fast that they will be a force multiplier in no time.
And now they do.
The tipping point of AI in legal practice is just the start
I’m thrilled to see this shift. We’ve reached the point where most lawyers now view AI in legal practice, not as a curiosity or a risk, but as a powerful resource. And, according to the latest research, a majority of partners and lawyers believe it will be a necessity to stay ahead in the future.
But let’s be clear: this is not the end. It’s the beginning.
We, the legal technology community, are standing at an extraordinary inflection point. Millions of professionals are open, for the first time, to incorporating AI into their daily workflows. And thanks to the power and accessibility of modern LLMs, we all share an unprecedented ability to create.
Next comes the real test: Innovation
The next generation of legal AI solutions will not be defined by who has access to the best model, but by who delivers real, differentiated value to lawyers. Success will depend on autonomy of vision and thought—the ability to see beyond the current hype. Leaders must think independently about where AI can genuinely elevate legal work, and resist being swept up in the trend of the day.
True innovation requires depth. It requires a deep understanding of both the legal craft itself and the inner workings of AI technology. Only by mastering both can we design tools that are not just technically impressive, but professionally transformative, secure, and ethically sound.
I am so thrilled to have joined Opus 2 because that’s where Opus 2 has a unique advantage. For over 15 years, we’ve worked alongside leading lawyers and legal teams around the world, understanding their challenges and their standards of excellence. Now we will continue to build on this solid foundation. Expect innovation grounded in understanding. Combined with a clear vision and true autonomous thinking, this approach ensures Opus 2 solutions go far beyond the ordinary and meet your needs in the least intrusive way.
This is our moment to turn understanding into action, think independently, and build fearlessly. The reality of AI in legal practice is here—now it’s time to lead, not follow.
To get an inside look at Opus 2’s leading AI for legal practice, request a demo.
