Generative AI Adoption Surges in Legal Research
New survey data shows 22% of lawyers now use generative AI research tools, with 37% planning to adopt soon.
Why it matters: Legal professionals face mounting pressure to evaluate and integrate AI tools that promise faster, more accurate research. Early adoption may offer competitive advantages—and shift longstanding vendor relationships.
- 22% of practicing lawyers use generative AI for research as of April 2024.
- Thomson Reuters added generative AI to Westlaw Precision in November 2023.
- TR acquired Casetext, an AI-focused startup, for $650 million in 2023.
- 85% of legal professionals believe generative AI is applicable to legal work.
Generative AI is rapidly redefining legal research workflows for both large incumbents and emerging startups. According to Law360, 22% of practicing lawyers said they already use generative AI for research as of April 2024—while another 37% expect to follow suit in the near future.
- Thomson Reuters launched AI-Assisted Research on Westlaw Precision in November 2023, enhancing its flagship platform with generative AI capabilities. This move preceded the company's $650 million acquisition of Casetext, a legal tech startup known for its AI-powered research tools.
- A Thomson Reuters survey found 85% of legal professionals believe generative AI can be applied to legal work. 25% of law firms and legal departments are already updating workflows to leverage this technology.
- Law360 interviews suggest large law firms and startups alike are experimenting with AI to answer research questions and generate case law summaries.
Thomson Reuters Chief Product Officer David Wong said their generative AI rollouts aim to let attorneys access “deeper, faster insights" into case law—though he acknowledged the "changing risk landscape" posed by rapid AI adoption.
Legal professionals are weighing the opportunities and risks, as integrating AI tools often means adapting workflows and reevaluating trusted vendors. How quickly the market shifts will depend on both ongoing product innovation and firms’ willingness to embrace new technology-driven processes.
By the numbers:
- 22% — Practicing lawyers using generative AI for legal research as of April 2024 (Law360)
- 85% — Legal professionals who believe generative AI applies to legal work (TR Survey)
- $650 million — TR's acquisition price for Casetext in 2023
Yes, but: Some law firms remain cautious, raising concerns about AI hallucinations, data confidentiality, and the need to validate outputs. Widespread adoption will hinge on building trust and demonstrating consistent value in real-world use cases.
What's next: Industry observers expect ongoing rollout of new AI features from both startups and established vendors throughout 2024.