Focus now on ‘measurable value’ from AI
Former chief justice Frank Clarke has told an event hosted by Addleshaw Goddard that AI represents “the latest and perhaps most far-reaching chapter” in the legal system’s continuing adaptation to technological change.
He was speaking at a commercial-litigation roundtable exploring how AI and emerging technologies were reshaping the disputes landscape.
The event (8 October) at Lennan’s Yard in Dublin focused on the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in the context of investigations, disputes, and regulatory scrutiny.
“As these tools become increasingly embedded in business processes and decision-making, it is important that organisations understand not only their benefits, but also the implications for evidence, accountability, and the administration of justice,” said Clarke.
‘Increasing demand’
Sophie Jackson (head of legal technology consulting, Addleshaw Goddard) told the event that many organisations had moved beyond experimenting with AI and were now focused on practical implementation and exploring how to deliver “measurable value” from their investments.
“The discussion highlighted that success depends not only on selecting the right technology, but also on establishing the governance, processes and skills needed to adopt it responsibly.
“We are seeing increasing demand from legal teams for guidance on how to embed AI effectively, while managing legal, regulatory and reputational risk," said Jackson.
Legal and evidential challenges
The firm’s senior litigation partner Stephen Barry said that AI was already changing the way organisations investigated issues, managed disputes, and responded to regulatory scrutiny.
“The pace of technological development presents significant opportunities to achieve better outcomes more efficiently, but it also creates new legal and evidential challenges that require careful consideration,” he said.
There was a discussion on the changing role of general counsel, with Hugh Cummins of RWE Renewables explaining how AI was starting to affect the in-house legal function.
He said that the technology could enable legal teams to work more effectively, while highlighting the importance of robust AI governance, risk management, and accountability frameworks.