McDermott to Train 1,700 Lawyers in AI by Early 2026
McDermott Will & Emery starts AI training for 1,700 lawyers in 2026.
Why it matters:
Training lawyers in AI ensures McDermott's ability to enhance efficiency, benefiting clients and maintaining competitive edge.
Key points:
- AI training for 1,700 lawyers begins early 2026.
- Training lasts 9-12 weeks, ending with certification.
- 21% of law firms currently use generative AI.
- 52% of corporate legal teams adopted AI in 2025.
McDermott Will & Emery is set to initiate AI training for its 1,700 lawyers starting early 2026. The program, scheduled to last between 9 and 12 weeks, aims to certify lawyers upon completion and significantly enhance current technological capabilities.
Hunter Jackson, the firm's Chief Knowledge Officer, stated, "The training we're planning is unprecedented in scale compared to previous efforts," referencing the firm's earlier use of AI tools like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT for tailored legal solutions.
This strategic initiative comes during a notable rise in AI use across the legal industry. Currently, 21% of law firms incorporate generative AI, with the figure rising to 39% among larger firms. In the broader corporate sphere, AI adoption increased from 23% in 2024 to 52% in 2025, indicating a significant shift towards internalizing capabilities previously outsourced.
For McDermott, the upcoming AI training is a step towards overcoming recent integration challenges following its merger with Schulte Roth & Zabel. By enhancing its lawyers' technical proficiency, the firm aims to streamline processes such as legal research and document review, thereby optimizing client services.
As the legal sector becomes increasingly digital, the ability to leverage AI effectively will be crucial for maintaining competitive advantage and delivering enhanced client outcomes.
By the numbers:
- 21% — current law firms using generative AI
- 52% — corporate legal teams using AI in 2025
What's next: McDermott's AI training program will begin in early 2026, marking a shift in their operational strategy.