Generative AI is becoming an invaluable tool for legal professionals aiming to bridge the communicative gap between the dense jargon of the law and the succinct, revenue-focused language of business. In this article, we explore ways that General Counsels (GCs) can effectively employ AI to simplify their communication with CEOs and other key stakeholders, thereby aiding their comprehension of the legal aspects surrounding significant business decisions. Above the Law provides valuable insight into this matter.
One prime example of these AI functions is the ability to suggest alternative phrasing. With AI, lawyers are no more at a loss of words. The AI tool can recommend terminology with an explicit emphasis on revenue over risk, making it easier for executives to grasp and, most importantly, act upon. Another remarkable feature of generative AI allows lawyers to get personalized suggestions for improving the tone and clarity of legal discourse based on an analysis of their previous communications.
Arguably one of the most time-consuming tasks for lawyers is to summarize lengthy legal documents. Generative AI is helping legal practitioners out of this predicament by digitally generating summaries that cater to lawyers’ specific requirements. Whether it’s compiling the most relevant points pertaining to the context or organizing neoteric laws in more digestible lay terms, AI is reshaping how lawyers handle massive volumes of documentation.
The automation of communication tasks, such as email drafting and document review, is yet another advantage that AI brings to the legal profession. With a keen understanding of a user’s communication style, AI can recommend or generate routine communications, thus saving time and mitigating potential errors.
AI’s potential to scan and analyze large volumes of documents can also provide a strategic edge to legal consultations. By instructing AI to generate advice that is context-dependent or to describe real-world examples that simplify legal notions, lawyers can ensure their advice is more relatable and actionable for business leaders.
Notwithstanding, it is pivotal to understand that AI only supplements the role of a GC; it is not a substitute. While AI offers an array of benefits, there’s no replacement for personal understanding of a client’s needs, preferences, or the building of robust personal relationships. However, the incorporation of generative AI in legal communication can indeed pave the way for more effective interactions, equipping executives with actionable insights required for informed decision making.