AI Pushes Lawyers Toward Leadership and Judgment Roles
Jordan Furlong says AI pushes lawyers to excel in leadership and judgment.
Why it matters: General Counsels need to focus on leadership and judgment skills to remain relevant as AI reshapes legal tasks, ensuring they can offer unique insights beyond what AI can automate.
- Jordan Furlong addressed ABA TECHSHOW 2026 on AI's impact.
- AI threatens to commoditize routine legal tasks.
- Furlong urges a focus on leadership and judgment skills.
- Calls for education reforms to equip lawyers for an AI future.
At the ABA TECHSHOW 2026 in Chicago, top legal analyst Jordan Furlong stated that artificial intelligence is reshaping legal roles, urging lawyers to concentrate on leadership and judgment. Furlong's keynote address on March 26, at the annual event running from March 25 to 28, highlighted that AI's growing role necessitates a pivot in how lawyers define their value.
AI technology is automating many routine legal tasks, leading to a commoditization of services traditionally performed by legal professionals. This shift challenges General Counsels to remain competitive by reinforcing skills AI cannot replicate—mainly leadership and judgment. "The future of the legal profession hinges on our ability to focus on what machines cannot do," Furlong declared.
Furlong's discourse also touched on the need for substantial reforms in legal education, which he argued should pivot towards skills like technology proficiency and client relationship management, moving beyond conventional legal training. He emphasized that law schools and firm training programs must adapt curricula to equip upcoming lawyers for roles that leverage human insights alongside AI tools.
The ABA TECHSHOW, known for its focus on innovation within the legal industry, served as an ideal platform for Furlong's perspectives on adaptation and resilience in a profession facing rapid technological advancements. Attendees were encouraged to rethink traditional legal pathways and embrace strategic shifts to harness AI benefits. For further insights, refer to the ABA news page.