By Ciro Di Stefano
AI is starting to change how law firms work. Most of the focus so far has been on what this means for careers in the long run. But the more immediate impact may be felt much earlier, at the point where people try to enter the profession.
For years, large law firms have followed a familiar model. Big groups of junior lawyers handled document review, research, and drafting. It was not always glamorous work, but it was how people learned. Over time, they built the skills needed to move up. That model is beginning to shift.
AI can now do much of this work faster and at lower cost. Tools like Harvey and Legora can review documents, summarize cases, and draft contracts in minutes rather than hours.
This is good news for clients and for efficiency. But it raises a simple question: if there is less work for junior lawyers, will firms need fewer of them?
Fewer roles at the start
There are already signs of change. Some firms are growing overall but not increasing their intake of junior lawyers at the same pace. If that continues, getting a first role in law may become harder. The main challenge for graduates may no longer be how to progress, but how to get in at all.
A tougher filter
When firms hire fewer people, they tend to be more selective. Grades matter more. So does where you studied, and what you have done outside the classroom.
Students may feel pressure earlier to secure internships, build experience, and stand out. What was once desirable may become expected.
Firms are also looking for something slightly different. Technical awareness, comfort with new tools, and the ability to apply judgment quickly are becoming more valuable.
Pressure on legal education
This shift creates a problem for both firms and universities. If junior lawyers do less of the basic work that once trained them, how do they learn? Experience has always been part of the system. Law schools may need to place more weight on practical skills and real world problem solving. Firms, meanwhile, may need to think harder about how they train people if they are hiring fewer of them.
A narrower path
None of this means demand for lawyers is falling. In many areas, it is rising. Rules around technology and data are expanding. Disputes involving digital content are increasing. Companies still need advice on risk, compliance, and governance. But the path into the profession may narrow.
Instead of large intake classes, firms may focus on smaller groups who can contribute earlier. That makes the system more efficient, but also more competitive and potentially less open to those without strong academic or professional advantages.
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