Wolters Kluwer report highlights AI adoption in legal sector
Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory has published the results of its Future Ready Lawyer 2026 global survey, a report examining technology adoption, evolving business models and emerging trends shaping the legal profession.
The report is based on interviews with 810 lawyers from law firms and corporate legal departments across the United States, China and nine European countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom.
One of the key findings of the study is the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in legal work. According to the survey, 92% of legal professionals report using at least one AI tool in their daily work, while 62% say these technologies help them save between 6% and 20% of their weekly working time.
In addition, 60% of respondents expect their organisations to increase investment in AI over the next three years.
Martin O’Malley, CEO of Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory, said the report reflects a legal sector undergoing transformation, with professionals reassessing business models, workflows and the role of technology in delivering legal services.
The study also points to growing confidence among legal professionals regarding their organisations’ ability to adapt to these changes. Sixty-one percent of respondents said they are confident their organisations will adjust business practices, services, workflows and pricing models in response to efficiencies generated by AI.
Another finding highlighted in the report concerns the potential impact of technology on the relationship between law firms and corporate legal departments. According to the survey, 54% of respondents believe law firms may use increased efficiency to serve a higher volume of clients or offer more competitive pricing.
