Rise of the AI-First Law Practice

The rise of AI in law is no longer a future consideration—it is a present-day inflection point. Yet while adoption is accelerating, most AI initiatives fail not because of technology, but because firms overlook the human, cultural, and leadership shifts required to make AI work. The firms that recognize this reality are redefining what it means to be truly AI-first—and gaining a decisive competitive edge.

Craig Brenner

1/2/2026

The AI-Native Law Firm

In the rapidly evolving landscape of business, artificial intelligence is not just a tool. It's a catalyst for profound operational transformation. Yet, many organizations, including law firms, approach AI adoption with trepidation. They fear disruption to established workflows and cultures. They fear having to change the way work gets done. The reality is that a staggering 95% of AI projects fail. This is not because of technological shortcomings, but due to inadequate change management that sidelines the human element. This failure rate underscores the risk of investing in AI tools while ignoring the harder problem; how the business will work better with those tools. AI doesn't falter. It's the lack of focus on people, leadership, and cultural integration that derails the vast majority of AI initiatives. For law offices that know this important fact, it presents a massive competitive advantage. AI ceases to be viewed as a threat to doing business as usual.

Successful AI adoption hinges on bridging the gap between the technology, the human doing the work, and how the work actually gets done. Over 78% of leading companies now incorporate AI in at least one business function, with those prioritizing formal strategies achieving up to 80% success. In the legal sector, adoption has exploded, with 79% of attorneys adopting AI tools for the first time in 2025, up from just 19% two years prior, leading to a 25% increase in billable hours for growing firms that emphasize ethical, people-first approaches. Law practices that invest in developing leaders to guide this shift are focusing first on mindset and methods and not just tools. AI is not a magic wand, and cannot become a replacement for years of legal expertise. Proper AI strategy becomes an enhancer, enabling faster decision-making and improved work quality while increasing revenues and employee satisfaction.

Embracing AI-first organizational transformation requires vision and courage. For smart law firms, the rewards will be immense. Don't be afraid to rethink your firm's culture around AI. Instead, equip your teams with the supporting frameworks to navigate change ethically and effectively. Ethically, not just for your clients, but also for your employees. Effectively, to protect your competitiveness in the market.

By Craig Brenner, CEO of icognio.com
The Leader in Secure AI Solutions for Law

About icognio: With the most secure AI platform for law, we handle the technology risks. We understand the harder part: AI powered organizational change. The jury has a verdict, and it’s crystal clear. A human-centered approach turns disruption into lasting advantage, positioning “AI first” law firms in the vanguard of the profession moving forward.