How AI is reshaping Big Law - and why firms can’t afford to wait, with ex-Ashurst digital chief

In this episode, we talk with Tara Waters. Tara is a leading voice in legal tech and a lawyer with more than 15 years’ experience at City firms including A&O, Simmons and Ashurst where she was a partner and chief digital officer - during which time she successfully rolled out AI tool Harvey to all of the firm’s 4,000+ lawyers and business services staff around the world.Tara shares her unique journey from technology to law, highlighting her experiences in legal tech and innovation. She discusses the evolution of legal services, the impact of generative AI, how law firms should assess its ROI and her favourite AI tools on the market.Tara emphasises the importance of adapting to new technologies, the need for investment in learning and development,and the traits that distinguish great lawyers. She also provides insights into the future of the billable hour model.Chapters00:30 Introduction to Tara and Her Journey03:034 Transition from Technology to Law06:20 Building a Diverse Legal Practice09:33 Innovation in Legal Services at Ashurst12:33 Client-Driven Changes in Legal Tech14:55 The Evolution of Legal Tech and AI18:11 Generative AI's Impact on Legal Work21:05 The Role of AI Assistants in Legal Practice23:50 Harvey: A Case Study in Legal AI Implementation27:08 Internal Adoption of AI Tools at Ashurst30:40 Elevating Voices: The Importance of User Stories30:58 Gaining Partner Buy-In for Technology Investments33:20 Measuring ROI: Beyond Cost Savings36:02 The Evolving Role of Lawyers in the Age of AI39:36 Rethinking the Billable Hour Model43:24 Legal AI Tools: Preferences and Industry Trends48:02 Leading Firms in Legal Tech Innovation49:31 Career Advice: Confidence and Continuous Learning54:48 Investing in Learning and Development56:40 The Value of Knowing When to PivotAbout Non-BillableNon-Billable is an email newsletter and media company for modern legal professionals, brought to you by a small team of former City lawyers and finance professionals.Visit our website: ⁠⁠https://www.nonbillable.co.uk/