What advice do you have for novice lawyers and law students who want to use AI in effective, critical, and ethical ways?

In Asia, AI’s ability to deal with different languages is also making a difference. Multi-jurisdictional deals used to be painful and time-consuming because of the language barriers. AI communication tools now bridge some of the language, geographical and cultural divides, making transaction coordination even more seamless. But despite these improvements, I want to emphasize that human judgement is at the core of what we do. Some have a fear that AI will de-skill lawyers. What we have experienced is the opposite. Lawyers now can focus on advocacy, strategic judgement, and client relationships, where our lawyers genuinely add value. AI may have been able to free us from repetitive grinds, but it cannot replace the experience and the nuanced roles that many lawyers play in transactions and disputes. The profession is more client-focused than ever. So, when AI allows us to spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time on client needs and higher order thinking, the profession is more client-focused than ever. Perhaps one thing that is noticeable is the structure of the legal teams is evolving as well. Law firms are no longer just lawyers and their trainees. Legal technologists, legal project managers, document automation specialists, and data experts, all work side by side with lawyers. Law firms that embrace technology and invest in diverse talents will stand to gain. So, in summary, Generative AI has made legal practice faster, more collaborative, and more client-focused.

You want to always apply critical judgement. Never accept AI output at face value. Scrutinize every answer. Check for errors, gaps, and contextual relevance. Human judgement is more valuable than ever now. My advice would be to start with AI and finish with your expertise. Often, AI drafts provide a solid foundation, but every result needs your legal analysis and finishing touch. Make every output your own before relying on it. Prioritize core human skills. Remember, empathy, good judgement, and relationship building remains at the heart of lawyering. When AI handles the repetitive, only you can build trust and truly advise the client. So, emphasize on the real value that you offer. Clients rely on your legal skills, but what sets you apart is your ability to combine insights, understanding, and trustworthy guidance. Mastering AI means using it thoughtfully and ethically. Let it amplify your work, but never replace your legal mind or your integrity.