How to Stand Out When Asked About the Impact of AI on Commercial Law Firms
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Let’s face it — “What’s your view on the impact of AI on commercial law firms?” has become one of the most common questions in vacation scheme and training contract interviews.
Everyone knows it’s coming. Everyone’s preparing for it. And yet, very few candidates manage to give an answer that actually stands out.
So, how do you make sure yours does?
🧠 Step 1: Go Beyond the Obvious
Most candidates will say something like:
“AI will automate repetitive tasks, making lawyers more efficient.”
That’s true — but it’s surface level. Interviewers have heard it hundreds of times.
Instead, dig deeper. Think about what that efficiency means commercially. For example:
Law firms can handle more client work without increasing headcount, boosting profitability.
AI tools are creating new competitive pressures, forcing firms to rethink their fee structures and client value propositions.
Firms are now investing in tech partnerships and innovation teams, blurring the line between law and tech consultancy.
By framing AI as a strategic business issue, you show commercial awareness — something firms prize far more than a generic “AI helps efficiency” answer.
⚙️ Step 2: Link It to Practice Areas
Demonstrate you understand the law firm’s work.For example:
In corporate teams, AI is streamlining due diligence by identifying red flags in contracts.
In litigation, AI-driven tools are predicting case outcomes based on historical data.
In real estate or banking, firms are using AI to automate document drafting and risk analysis.
Showing that you know where AI fits into specific practice areas tells the interviewer you’ve done your research and understand the commercial landscape.
💬 Step 3: Mention the Risks and Ethical Concerns
Top candidates also acknowledge the challenges:
Data privacy — how firms ensure client confidentiality while using third-party AI tools.
Bias in algorithms — whether automated systems can unintentionally produce unfair outcomes.
Regulatory uncertainty — how evolving legislation around AI (like the EU AI Act) affects law firms and their clients.
Highlighting these nuances shows maturity of thought — and that you can think like a future lawyer, not just a student.
🚀 Step 4: Bring in the Human Element
A strong conclusion is to emphasise that while AI can transform processes, human judgment remains irreplaceable.
Law is about interpretation, empathy, and negotiation — qualities AI can’t replicate. The best candidates show they understand how AI will complement, not replace, lawyers.
You could say something like:
“AI will reshape the legal landscape, but it will also make human expertise even more valuable. The lawyers who thrive will be those who can use technology intelligently while still exercising sound judgment.”
✍️ Step 5: Personalise Your Answer
Finally, connect your response to your own experience or motivation.If you’ve:
Used AI tools like ChatGPT, Lexis+, or Harvey AI,
Studied how AI affects industries during your degree,
Or are simply curious about how tech is redefining client service —
Mention it. It adds authenticity and helps the interviewer remember you as someone genuinely interested in innovation.
🎯 Final Thoughts
In 2025 and beyond, AI will continue to reshape how commercial law firms operate — from client onboarding to contract analysis. But in interviews, what matters most is how you think about these changes.
Anyone can talk about AI. Few can connect it to business models, client needs, and the future role of lawyers.
That’s what separates a good answer from a great one.
At Legal Careers Club, we help aspiring solicitors turn common interview questions into opportunities to impress.
If you’re preparing for your vacation scheme or training contract interviews and want feedback on your AI or commercial awareness answers, feel free to reach out — we’ll help you craft responses that truly stand out.
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