Overcoming these challenges is not about resisting technology, but about integrating it consciously.
*By Magno Alves
THE artificial intelligence (AI) AI has already made a definitive presence in various sectors, including the legal market. However, even though interest in AI solutions has grown significantly, several strategic and operational aspects remain under debate, requiring legal departments to pay close attention to risks and adaptations. According to a survey by FTI Consulting, 85% of legal directors at large companies estimate that operational risks linked to the use of AI will increase by 2025. The study, conducted in 2024 with over 200 executives from companies with revenues exceeding $100 million, also shows that all legal departments consulted faced internal questions on the topic over the past year, reinforcing the centrality of the discussion and highlighting the need for constant adaptation to technological evolution.
Given this scenario, how can these risks be overcome? The first step is to recognize them and direct investments both in technology and in the training of specialized professionals, capable of supporting legal areas in overcoming these challenges.
Imminent risks in the legal sector
One of the main risks for the legal sector is the phenomenon known as "toxic efficiency," which occurs when companies try to automate processes that, in fact, shouldn't exist. Simply digitizing obsolete and bureaucratic workflows only perpetuates historical problems, transferring them to a digital environment without promoting substantial improvements.
Another imminent risk relates to the automation of systematic error. Without proper supervision, the large-scale generation of procedural documents can lead to repetitive flaws that, in manual work, would be identified and corrected by the experience of legal professionals. This situation can compromise the quality of documents and generate considerable negative impacts on judicial processes.
Furthermore, there is also strategic misalignment, which occurs when legal departments become disconnected from the overall business objectives. In this situation, contract automation may seem like an efficient solution, but if these documents do not reflect the evolution of the company model, existing problems end up multiplying rapidly, generating negative impacts on management and decision-making.
Finally, it is important to highlight the risk of skills atrophy, a problem that affects not only the legal sector but also several other segments. Young lawyers who develop in environments dominated by hyper-automation may become excessively dependent on technology, which can compromise their critical ability to question premises and develop original arguments, aspects that are essential for the full practice of law.
The role of legal platforms
Generally speaking, overcoming these challenges doesn't mean resisting technological innovations, but rather integrating them consciously and assertively. The implementation of artificial intelligence must be accompanied by human checkpoints, continuous training for professionals, and a clear focus on freeing up lawyers to dedicate themselves to more strategic and higher value-added demands.
At this point, the legal platforms Integrated with artificial intelligence, these solutions represent a decisive advance for the sector. They deliver efficiency in process management, allow for in-depth data analysis, and offer consistent support for decision-making, while ensuring clear parameters for information security and corporate governance. However, when poorly directed, the application of artificial intelligence can compromise data privacy, amplify existing biases, or even generate erroneous decisions.
However, by using a structured platform, it is possible to align technology with the requirements of the LGPD (Brazilian General Data Protection Law), guarantee respect for professional confidentiality, and prepare legal departments to meet future regulatory demands, such as those foreseen in the Legal Framework for Artificial Intelligence. Bill 2.338/2023, approved by the Senate in December 2024, establishes important guidelines on transparency in the use of copyrighted content and regulates negotiations regarding remuneration for authors, reinforcing the need for proactive adaptation of legal systems and processes.
Ethical and strategic path
The successful implementation of artificial intelligence in legal environments goes far beyond simply acquiring software. It demands responsible customization and constant monitoring to ensure that models evolve in line with client practice, remaining up-to-date and guided by ethical principles.
Inevitably, the future of law will be permeated by technology and artificial intelligence, and companies must reflect on how this integration will be carried out. With the support of legal platforms, technology can cease to be seen as a risk and become an instrument of transparency and strategic efficiency, effectively contributing to the modernization and strengthening of the sector.
Magno Alves is the Director of the legal department of... Benner, a technology company that offers business management software and BPO services to revolutionize and simplify business.
Notice: The opinion presented in this article is the responsibility of its author and not of ABES - Brazilian Association of Software Companies
