Richard Robbins has been appointed as Reed Smith’s first director of applied artificial intelligence (AI), a clear indication of the firm’s active push towards AI integration into their legal practices. Robbins will assist in pushing numerous AI projects from the test phase to full-scale application, including at least eight generative artificial intelligence projects. These initiatives represent a strategic investment to streamline various firm operations, from the formulation of new products to accelerating AI-driven workflows for entire practice areas.
David Cunningham, Reed Smith’s chief innovation officer, highlighted the seriousness of such an undertaking, pointing out that the firm’s approach necessitates dedicated AI leadership. Unlike other firms who are testing the waters of AI application in so-called ‘random spaces’, Reed Smith, has been formulating strategies on how to invest in AI intelligently, focusing on areas that could maximally benefit from AI’s cost- and time-saving advantages. Merger & Acquisition (M&A) and Intellectual Property transactions are two practice areas that are earmarked to benefit from increased speed, thus improving efficiency.
Specialising in applied AI, Robbins previously worked at legal tech company Epiq, bringing a wealth of experience to his new role. He is expected to work closely with practice groups to identify and optimise new workflows and pricing strategies, which will undoubtedly transform the way Reed Smith delivers legal services.
Some of Reed Smith’s ongoing AI projects include testing commercial products like Harvey, CoPilot, and a new product from legal technology company Litera. The firm is also an early tester of Harvey, a legal-focused generative AI company.
The firm’s most popular use for the AI tool Harvey involves summarising large documents, enabling a more comprehensive review of legal work. This enhancement allows for a broader analysis of issues in less time. Through the employment of techno-legal experts and the continuous search for areas that could enhance AI-driven efficiencies, Reed Smith is fundamentally reimagining traditional practice workflows. Such steps, while they require sizeable investment, could present a contractible advantage over competitors in the long run.
Riding the wave of his recent appointment, Robbins commented on the game-changing potential of generative AI. It represents a transformative moment in legal technology given its ability to decipher concepts rather than mere words. Echoing this sentiment, Robbins confirmed his commitment to delivering AI capabilities that meet and exceed client expectations under the leadership of Cunningham.
Link to the full article: Reed Smith Names AI Chief