Generative AI brings plenty of opportunities to increase productivity, speed up processes and quickly generate text. However, generative AI technologies are equally capable of information retrieval. Knowledge bots are a sophisticated method of accessing knowledge held in internal (and external) information systems, enabling law firms to access information held in case files, contracts, evidence bundles and other large documents quickly.
In this article, we will discuss how law firms are learning from other industries' use of knowledge bots, and discuss the use cases where law firms can realise the benefits of generative AI quickly.
What is a knowledge bot in law?
A knowledge bot is a form of generative AI that automates the processes and analysis of large volumes of information. In the legal sector, generative AI can quickly summarise, retrieve information and relay relevant information. Depending on the knowledge bot in question, it can connect with your internal systems, select documents, legal precedents and case files to retrieve information to save lawyers vital time often spent conducting desk research.
Knowledge bots can be introduced in a whole manner of creative ways. For instance, the Financial Times has recently introduced AskFT, a generative AI chatbot that leverages the newspaper’s extensive archives to answer user questions. The bot provides responses based on decades of financial reporting.
The applications of knowledge bots in law
The greatest benefit knowledge bots offer lawyers is the ability to retrieve information quickly. In turn, this means lawyers can reduce the time spent reviewing documents and on legal research, by accessing information quickly. Even complex legal questions and requests to summarise extremely large documents can be handled with generative AI.
Knowledge bots in legal case preparation
Case files and previous rulings can guide lawyers in their strategy and advise that they offer their clients. Lawyers can use generative AI knowledge bots to find relevant precedents, relevant information and surface potential legal strategies that may yield a higher likelihood of success.
Knowledge bots in client interaction
Knowledge bots can even assist with client interactions. External facing knowledge bots can aid with customers and encourage them to self-serve. This can remove the burden of legal staff on responding to simple queries and requests.
Knowledge bots for internal use
Information that can be found in employee handbooks, process workflows and in internal policies can be hard to retrieve on a daily basis. Knowledge bots come into their own in these exact situations, and make information that pertains to matters such as HR policies easy to access.
Routes to knowledge bot success
Connect knowledge bots to information systems
Many law firms have well maintained information systems, such as case management systems and legal research databases. Generative AI can securely integrate with these systems, automate and retrieve information. Additionally, knowledge bots can be modified so they are aware of your processes to make them a natural component of your organisation's workflows.
Modify knowledge bots to meet your needs
Every firms’ needs for a knowledge bot differs. Therefore, for a knowledge bot to work successfully, it needs to be modified. This modification step allows you to retrieve important information, format information appropriately, use the right tone of voice and vocabulary, and to operate to your firm's best practices.
Continuously improve knowledge bots
Your firm's knowledge grows and expands, as does your legaltec. Knowledge bots need to also evolve as your working practices do. This extends to their output, too. Launching a pilot knowledge bot programme will demonstrate to your firm just how they need to work. Therefore, finding a customisable, adjustable solution will be in your own best interests.
Conclusion
The implementation of knowledge bots in legal practice offers promising benefits, enhancing operational efficiency and client service. However, these benefits come with significant considerations, particularly in ensuring accuracy, maintaining ethical standards, and protecting client data. By addressing these challenges, law firms can leverage knowledge bots to their full potential, transforming their practices into more efficient, responsive, and competitive businesses.
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