Zach Abramowitz is Legally Disrupted

In this episode, Zach Abramowitz is joined by Eli Amsellem, an investor at Ridge Ventures, to delve into the hot topic of investment in legal AI. They discuss the hype around billion-dollar valuations and the reality behind customer adoption and revenue sustainability. Eli shares insights from his hands-on approach, including talking to actual buyers and hosting GC therapy dinners. They debate the future of legal AI, whether horizontal AI assistants or vertical workflow automation will prevail, and examine companies like Harvey, Legora, New Code, OpenPolicy, and Legalmation. This episode offers a nuanced view on the challenges and opportunities in the legal AI space.   Discover: Deep Dive into Legal AI Adoption  The VC Perspective on Legal AI  Challenges and Opportunities in Legal AI  The Future of Legal AI and VC Investments  Case Studies and Market Dynamics  The Role of Innovation in Legal AI  Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Events References: Conversation with Paid CEO Manny Medina - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESa1TdS3dI4&t=318s Learn More: Eli - https://ridge.vc/eliyahou-amsellem/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Eli - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliyahou-amsellem-13aa2b164/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz, https://x.com/ZachAbramowitz, https://youtube.com/@legallydisrupted?si=MGT7nW96PdM4a2ZM  

In this episode, Zach delves into the evolution and impact of AI on contract management with Preston Clark and Electra Japonas.   In this episode: AI and Contracts: A Boring Use Case The Adoption Curve of AI in Legal  The Story of Law Insider  The Birth of One NDA  The Future of AI and Contracting  Legacy Product Overview  AI Capabilities and New SKU  User Growth and Market Excitement  Product Distribution and Democratization  Customer Focus and Data Utilization  CLM Market Insights and Future  Learn More: Electra - https://www.onenda.org/about Preston - https://www.lawinsider.com/resources/contributors/preston-clark Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Electra - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/electra-japonas Preston - https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonjclark Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

This episode of Zach Abramowitz is Legally Disrupted features a conversation with lawyer and technologist Carolyn Elefant about whether legal specific tools and legacy software will be able to keep up with general applications like ChatGPT.   In this episode:  The Rapid Evolution of AI in Law The Future of AI in Legal Practice Exploring AI Tools for Lawyers Legal Research and AI Integration The Impact of AI on Legal Research The Future of Legaltech and AI   Learn More: Carolyn - https://lawofficesofcarolynelefant.com/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Carolyn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynelefant/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

In this episode, Zach and Charlie delve into the rapid advancements in AI, particularly in the legal tech sector. The discussion transitions to the increasing caliber of entrepreneurs in legal tech and the acceleration of innovation in the field. They reflect on the evolution of legal AI from 2015 to 2023, noting the shift from mere ideas to full-blown products. The conversation also explores the potential for AI to reshape traditional legal processes, improve efficiency, and alter the way legal professionals approach their work, concluding with an optimistic outlook on the future of legal tech.   In this episode: The Rise of Legal Tech Entrepreneurs  AI's Impact on Legal Tech  Challenges and Opportunities in AI Adoption  The Evolution of Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) Applying Machine Learning in Legal Tech  Generative AI vs. Automation  AI as a Legal Assistant  Training Lawyers with AI  AI in eDiscovery  The Future of Legal Tech Learn More: Charlie - https://gravitystack.com/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Charlie - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlieconnor Gravity Stack -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/gravity-stack-law-llc Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

In this episode, Zach speaks with Legora's head of strategic partnerships and community, Chris Williams, about the rebranding journey and the strategic role of Legora in the AI-driven legal tech landscape. The discussion covers the responsibilities of his role, the transition from selling no-code, low-code platforms to generative AI, and the significant shift in how AI is transforming legal practices. The episode also explores differences between Legora and other AI tools like Harvey, the challenges and opportunities in the market, and the future direction for legal professionals using AI. Tune in to learn about Legora's mission to build the world's first truly collaborative AI for lawyers, enhancing strategic business development while reducing non-billable work.    Discover: The Role and Responsibilities at Legora Transition from Selling Traditional Tech to AI  The Impact of Generative AI in Legal Tech Rebranding from Leya to Legora  Collaborative AI for Lawyers  Adoption of AI in Law Firms and In-House Teams  Comparing Legora and Harvey  The Future of Legal Work with AI  Connecting with Legora at Legal Week  Career Opportunities at Legora Learn More: Chris - Legora.com Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Chris - linkedin.com/in/chriswiiiiams/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

Zach, Ken and Josh talk about the upcoming three day conference in Myrtle Beach focusing on AI, Cybersecurity and Data Governance. Attendees will have opportunities to interact with cutting-edge AI companies and products.The event features specific presentations, including those by startup community members, covering practical AI applications in fields like legal finance, pricing, collections, and timekeeping. Register - https://www.iltanet.org/live-events/evolve#speak   Follow Along: Josh Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuadsmithcissp/ Ken Jones https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennethejones/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz   Learn More: https://www.legallydisrupted.com/  

In this episode, Zach interviews Eleanor Lightbody, the CEO of Luminance, about her journey from working at Darktrace to leading Luminance, a legal tech company. Eleanor shares insights from her four years as CEO, highlighting the transformative impact of AI in the legal tech space. They discuss Luminance's growth strategy, the development of their contract lifecycle management tool, and the shift from M&A-specific uses to a broader, more inclusive approach. Eleanor also delves into how generative AI is changing user expectations and behaviors, and emphasizes the importance of balancing current customer needs with future innovations through a specialized 'blue sky thinking' team. Follow Luminance's developments on LinkedIn, their website, and at key industry conferences like Legal Week.  Eleanor's Background Journey at Darktrace  Transition to Luminance  Growth and Strategy at Luminance  Evolution of Luminance's Focus  Impact of Generative AI  Future Vision and Blue Sky Thinking  Learn More: Eleanor - https://www.luminance.com/team.html Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Eleanor - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-lightbody-69a6b784/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

In this engaging conversation, Ilona and Evan discuss their roles and experiences in leading innovation within their respective law firms, Cleary Gottlieb and Fisher Phillips. Ilona, the Director of Practice Innovation at Cleary, shares her journey from McKinsey to leading a transformation journey at Cleary. Evan, the Chief Knowledge and Innovation Officer at Fisher Phillips, talks about his shift from labor and employment law into knowledge management and legal technology. The discussion covers their strategies for partnering with early-stage companies, the impact of generative AI on the legal industry, the importance of being thought leaders, and the challenges and opportunities of incorporating AI into legal practices. They also delve into the long-term benefits of working with startups, AI governance, and the future trajectory of AI in redefining the value proposition of the legal profession.    Topics discussed: IIona's Journey and Role at Cleary Evan's Career Path and Role at Fisher Phillips  The Impact of Generative AI on Legal Tech  Pre-Generative AI Adoption Strategies  Evaluating Startups and Early Partnerships  Risk Management and AI Governance  Learn More: Ilona - https://www.pli.edu/faculty/ilona-logvinova-i2002979 Evan - https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/people/evan-shenkman.html Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Ilona - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilonalogvinova Evan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-shenkman-5445123 Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

Katya Fisher introduces her journey from a practicing attorney to a tech entrepreneur. She shares her experience of building a successful law practice during the Great Recession and how she acquired a unique set of legal skills. Katya talks about the inefficiencies in the legal world that led her to build Aracor.ai, a legal tech product tailored for in-house counsel of investment firms such as venture capital funds, private equity groups, and family offices.   Learn More: Aracor - https://www.aracor.ai/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Katya - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katyafisher/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz  

In this episode recorded at the NetDocuments Inspire EMEA conference in London, Dan Hauck outlines the strides made in integrating AI into legal document management. The discussion begins with a reflection on a previous webinar and the decision to avoid common, simplistic AI solutions like chatbots, instead focusing on using LLMs for intelligent document tagging. The development and features of NetDocuments' AI suite, ndMax, are detailed, emphasizing automated processes like semantic search, document metadata enrichment, and contract summarization. The conversation also touches on the importance of embedding AI seamlessly into existing workflows to enhance the work experience for attorneys, improve client service, and retain top talent. Additionally, they explore future enhancements, the integration of custom legal applications, and the overarching strategy of simplifying AI use within the platform.    AI in Legal: A Thoughtful Approach Developing ndMax: Tackling Legal Challenges with AI  The Shift to Semantic Search  Building Legal Apps with ndMax AI Integration and Lawyer Experience  Simply Intelligent: The New Messaging   Learn More: Dan - NetDocuments.com Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Dan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danhauck Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

In this episode, Joe Cohen, Director of Advanced Client Solutions at Charles Russell Speechlys, discusses his recent career change and the establishment of a new department at the firm focusing on legal tech, generative AI, legal project management, and process improvement. Joe details the triggers for creating the innovation department and the rapid adoption of generative AI platforms within the firm. He shares insights from the recent Legal Innovators conference panel, the impact of AI on value-based pricing, and its transformative potential on both the practice of law and business models. Joe also explores the challenges and future possibilities of AI in the legal sector, including data limitations and evolving regulatory landscapes.  Creating an Innovation Department  Generative AI Implementation  Value-Based Pricing and AI  Future of Legal AI and Data Challenges   Learn More: https://www.legalinnovators.co.uk/ Joe - https://www.charlesrussellspeechlys.com/en/people/j/joe-cohen/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Joe - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecohen13/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

In episode 12 of Zach Abramowitz is Legally Disrupted, Zach interviews Jeff Franke and Connie Brenton, co-founders of LegalOps.com, ahead of their upcoming conference, "Running Legal Like a Business," in Las Vegas from September 3-6. The discussion highlights the evolution of legal operations, emphasizing the need for community and industry standards, which they aim to foster through their platform.   Learn more about the conference "Running Legal Like a Business" - https://event-2024.legalops.com/   Learn More: Legal Ops - legalops.com, lawvision.com Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

In this episode of Zach Abramowitz is Legally Disrupted, dive into the world of digital health and legal technology with a seasoned entrepreneur who has been at the forefront of healthcare technology since the late 1980s. The discussion covers the evolution of electronic health records, the intersection of digital health and legal tech, and the challenges faced by lawyers in adopting new technologies. Edward Bukstel shares insights on his current venture, which aims to streamline the process for personal injury cases and improve communication between clients and lawyers. The conversation also touches on the competitive landscape of legal tech, particularly the emergence of companies like Harvey.ai and the implications of AI in the legal field.    Learn More: Edward - https://medium.com/@Connected_Dots, https://www.giupedi.com/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Edward - https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-bukstel-33987a2/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

This episode of Zach Abramowitz is Legally Disrupted delves into the importance of using specialized tools for professionals, drawing an analogy between Snap-on tools at a motorcycle shop and purpose-built applications in the legal industry. It discusses why general-purpose tools like GPT and Claude may not meet the specific needs of professionals, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions that provide confidence and efficiency. The conversation highlights the philosophy of building platforms that cater to the precise requirements of professional users, particularly in legal settings. The Snap-On Tools Philosophy The Professional's Preference Purpose-Built Applications vs. Swiss Army Knives Optimizing for Legal Professionals   Learn More: James - https://www.legalmation.com/about/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: James - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-lee-9468b64 Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

In this episode, I sit down with Gravity Stack's Managing Director Bryon Bratcher for a live conversation on stage in San Francisco at Legal Innovators California (hosted by Artificial Lawyer Richard Tromans) to learn about how Gravity Stack, the subsidiary of Reed Smith LLP, is transforming its service offerings in light of the advances in AI and large language models.    Learn More: www.legalinnovatorscalifornia.com www.artifciallawyer.com  Bryon - www.Gravitystack.com Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Bryon - https://twitter.com/bryon_z https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryon-bratcher-24b1a92/  Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

Zach sits down with legal influencer Alex Su for an engaging discussion about his unique career journey and insights into the legal industry's future.   Alex's move from legal tech companies to a leadership role at Latitude Legal Exploring how creating engaging content can amplify one's influence and impact in the legal sector The significance of gradual, sustained efforts in achieving long-term professional success How technological advancements are reshaping the legal profession and the imperative for lawyers to upskill How artificial intelligence and automation are influencing legal practices and what it means for future legal staffing The benefits and challenges of flexible staffing models in today's legal landscape   Learn More: Alex - https://latitudelegal.com/about/leadership/alex-su/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Alex - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-su?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_mweb&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile, https://x.com/heyitsalexsu?s=21&t=Qsv7XtspImwlZU9tcVEi_g Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

Zach talks with TermScout founder about the inspiration for Screens.ai, how LLMs have drastically changed their roadmap and how lawyers will now be able to generate passive income from AI. Introduction to the Pivot from Term Scout to Screens.ai Exploring the Pivot: Not Just a Change, But an Expansion The Success and Services of Term Scout The Genesis and Vision of Screens.ai The Gig Economy and Legal Profession's Transformation Screens.ai: A New Paradigm for Legal Expertise and Passive Income The Future of Contract Review with Screens.ai How Businesses and Lawyers Can Leverage Screens.ai Learn More: Otto - https://www.termscout.com/, https://www.screens.ai/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Otto - linkedin.com/in/ottohanson/ Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

Scott talks with Zach about how LLMs have been a game changer for his company, why he likens Spellbook to an electric bicycle and why lawyers don't use templates.   Learn More: Scott - https://www.spellbook.legal/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: Scott - linkedin.com/in/scottas, https://x.com/scottastevenson?s=20 Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

LegalMation CEO James Lee talks with Zach about the company's recent $15M funding round, adoption of AI by lawyers and where LLMs sometimes come up short.   Learn More: James - https://www.legalmation.com/about/ Zach - https://www.legallydisrupted.com/   Follow Along: James - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-lee-9468b64 Zach - linkedin.com/in/zachabramowitz

Andy Wilson, co-founder and former CEO of Logikcull, recently acquired by Reveal. Will AI and LLMs cause eDiscovery to disappear? Andy Wilson LinkedIn Andy Wilson X Logikcull   Learn more about Zach at Killer Whale Strategies

Josh Kubicki, Brainyacts Founder and Author  LinkedIn   Twitter  Website Subscribe to Brainyacts   Learn more about Zach at Killer Whale Strategies

In this episode, Zach is joined by TermScout founder Otto Hanson for a discussion about AI in the legal industry, TermScout's vision of frictionless contracting and the transition from attorney to tech entrepreneur. Learn more about Zach at Killer Whale Strategies

In this inaugural episode of Zach Abramowitz is Legally Disrupted I sit down with Mr. Artificial Lawyer Himself, Richard Tromans, founder of ArtificialLawyer.com, one of the most highly read legal tech news sites. Richard has been running the site this since 2016. In this episode, we talk about why he's currently on Sabbatical, ChatGPT and LLMs and why he hopes to see the billable hour killed. He also tells us about his upcoming conference Legal Innovators California on June 7-8 www.Legalinnovatorscalifornia.com   Learn more about Zach at Killer Whale Strategies