Irwin Mitchell adopts AI to enhance legal efficiency & service

One of the UK's largest general practice law firms, Irwin Mitchell, has announced its deployment of Lexis+ AI, a cutting-edge generative AI solution from LexisNexis. This strategic move aims to enhance the efficiency and innovation of the firm as part of its ongoing digital transformation journey.

Leveraging Lexis+ AI, Irwin Mitchell seeks to improve the productivity of its lawyers, ensuring that client needs are met more effectively. The solution integrates advanced legal research and drafting tools, which are expected to significantly streamline legal workflows within the firm.

Eleanor Windsor, Partner and Director of Knowledge Management at Irwin Mitchell, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. "As we embark on our digital transformation journey, we wanted to partner with an organisation we knew and trusted. We wanted an AI solution that would allow our lawyers to add more value to our clients through an efficient and frictionless client experience," she said. "We selected Lexis+ AI as it is the most advanced legally-trained AI solution on the market. It will enable us to maximise the value of the legal intelligence we already access from LexisNexis."

The deployment of Lexis+ AI will transform Irwin Mitchell's legal workflow in several key ways. The system's conversational search feature allows lawyers to ask legal questions and receive cited and linked answers, akin to consulting a trusted colleague. Additionally, the AI's case law summarisation capabilities and document analysis tools will enable lawyers to generate first-draft contract clauses and client communications efficiently.

The implementation promises substantial time savings, allowing lawyers to focus more on critical client issues. A survey conducted in the USA in November 2023 of early users of Lexis+ AI indicated that 74% estimated a weekly saving of seven hours on legal research, while 80% anticipated saving six hours a week on legal drafting.

Gerry Duffy, Managing Director of LexisNexis UK & Ireland, commented on the partnership, highlighting the mutual benefits. "We're delighted to be supporting Irwin Mitchell's innovation strategy. The firm offers a superb example of how merging cutting-edge technology with legal insight and human know-how can bring real value to both clients and their lawyers," he said. "For all businesses, embracing new technology can be challenging. But doing so is essential, and AI opens up a wealth of potential. We are excited to partner with Irwin Mitchell and help them to deliver a world-class customer experience."

The introduction of Lexis+ AI is expected to enhance the firm's overall client service by integrating next-generation workflow management technologies into their operations. This collaboration is anticipated to establish Irwin Mitchell at the forefront of legal innovation, setting a benchmark for other firms in the industry.