DeepSeek: the AI that challenges Nvidia and reshapes the legal sector
Its ability to reduce costs and increase efficiency represents an opportunity, but also a challenge for the traditional structure of the legal profession
by mercedes galán
The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal world has been undeniable in recent years, but the arrival of DeepSeek has once again shaken the landscape. The Chinese startup has demonstrated that it is possible to train advanced models with minimal investment compared to tech giants, challenging Nvidia’s dominance and reshaping the global AI race.
But what does this mean for the legal sector? Are we facing a natural evolution or a disruption that will change the profession as we know it? To answer these questions, we spoke with three industry experts: Rafael García del Poyo, partner at Osborne Clarke and member of the firm’s Tech, Media and Comms group, Mario Gras, Director of the IT/IP Law Department at Osborne Clarke, and Carlos Alberto Sáiz Peña, Vice President and Partner of Risk & Compliance at Ecix, who analyze the impact of DeepSeek from different perspectives.
HOW IS AI CHANGING THE LEGAL PROFESSION?
Automation is already a reality in many law firms, but this new player has taken the debate to a new level. DeepSeek has demonstrated that investing billions is not necessary to develop advanced AI models. Its efficient approach has put Big Tech’s business model in check and raises a key question for legal professionals: how will this affect the automation of legal tasks?
“AI-driven automation improves efficiency in routine legal tasks, allowing activities such as document review or case law research to be carried out quickly and accurately,” highlights García del Poyo. But DeepSeek not only streamlines document review, it also enables the extraction of key information with impressive precision, and “this frees up time to focus on higher-value tasks, such as legal strategy and personalized advice,” he explains.
Mario Gras agrees, stating that the DeepSeek model allows firms to customize searches and data analysis in greater detail. “This model offers search and data analysis tailored to the specific needs of the firm, improving accuracy in pattern identification and information relevance. Additionally, it optimizes the efficiency of legal consulting, creating a safer environment and enabling lawyers to provide higher-quality services.”
Meanwhile, Carlos Sáiz considers the adoption of these models fundamental for automating repetitive, low-value processes. “Some firms will choose to adapt and centralize services using this or other models tailored to the legal sector. But we will have to see what added value other firms offer by selling a custom AI solution,” he points out.
