‘Everybody will use AI, how do you remain relevant?’: LegalTechTalk 2026 panel explores legal design, legal engineering and the future of legal services

The LegalTechTalk 2026 panel, moderated by Anthony Rose, explored the evolving landscape of legal services in the age of AI. A central theme was the distinction between technology and legal design; experts emphasized that while AI is a powerful tool, legal design provides the essential logic and methodology required to ensure technology solves real client needs rather than merely automating existing inefficiencies.

The discussion highlighted the rise of the "legal engineer" and hybrid professionals who combine legal expertise with technological proficiency. Panelists noted that as technology becomes more accessible, lawyers are increasingly involved in product development and workflow automation. However, this shift necessitates new governance frameworks and "sandboxes" for experimentation to ensure quality and compliance. There was also a significant focus on the need for lawyers to develop diverse thinking modes, including systems and computational thinking.

Finally, the panel addressed the economic implications of AI, specifically the potential obsolescence of the billable hour. As AI increases efficiency, the value proposition for law firms must shift from time-based billing to outcome-based models, focusing on strategic advice, risk assessment, and specialized expertise. The consensus was that long-term competitiveness will depend on organizational culture, purpose-driven leadership, and the ability to create value beyond traditional legal tasks.

(Source：Scconline)