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How AI May Enhance the Legal Secretary Role

Written by: Evie Courtier and ILPSA
Published on: 5 Jun 2024

How AI May Enhance the Legal Secretary Role

The Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs (ILSPA): a professional body dedicated to aiding those in Legal Secretary jobs across their career, share with totallylegal, their tips on how AI may enhance the legal secretary role.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the legal sector has been making the headlines recently, with the roles of those working in legal support at the forefront of the conversation. As we delve into the newfound reality of AI-assisted work, it's crucial to understand how we can leverage technology to enhance the role of legal secretaries, streamlining efficiency and drawing inspiration from evolving workplace dynamics.

With the proactive approach of AI in mind, let's explore the potential benefits and adaptations for legal secretaries working both in-house and practice.

  • Embracing Change and Innovation

    For legal secretaries, AI offers an opportunity to streamline routine tasks such as document preparation, scheduling, and client communication. By adopting an open mindset towards these changes, those in legal secretary jobs can leverage AI tools to enhance their productivity, leaving room to focus on higher-value tasks that require human insight and expertise.

  • Augmented Capabilities

    AI technologies, including natural language processing and machine learning, are designed to augment human capabilities rather than replace them. For legal secretaries, this translates into AI-powered tools and virtual assistants that can automate time-consuming tasks like basic client enquiries, appointment scheduling and document research. This augmentation allows legal secretaries to allocate more time to strategic functions, client interaction, and supporting lawyers with more complex legal matters.

  • Upskilling and Adaptability

    The integration of AI in the legal field necessitates a shift towards continuous learning and skill development. Legal secretaries will need to upskill to stay abreast of new AI tools and technologies that can aid their work. This includes not only technical skills related to AI applications but also soft skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, and effective communication. Embracing a culture of learning and being open to change will be key for legal secretaries to thrive in this new landscape.

    Discover our ‘Soft Skills Required in the Legal Secretary Profession’ for more information on skill development.

  • Enhancing Collaboration

    AI can also play a significant role in enhancing collaboration within legal teams. By automating routine tasks and organising information efficiently, AI enables legal secretaries to facilitate better communication and coordination among team members. This can lead to more streamlined processes, reduced errors, and improved case management.

  • Future Proofing the Role

    To future proof their profession in the face of AI advancements, legal secretaries must proactively engage with new technologies. This involves not only learning how to use AI tools effectively but also understanding their potential impact on the legal industry. By demonstrating a proactive approach and contributing ideas on how AI can benefit their role and the broader legal team, legal secretaries can position themselves as invaluable assets in an increasingly digital workplace.