Husch Blackwell Enhances Legal Efficiency with Microsoft Copilot, Achieving 8,800 Hours Saved for Lawyers
Enhancing Client Interactions with Microsoft Teams and Copilot
AI Integration in Legal Practices
Husch Blackwell, a notable law firm, has significantly improved their client interactions and operational efficiency by adopting Microsoft Teams and AI tools like Copilot. By delegating the task of note-taking during meetings to AI systems, attorneys can dedicate more time to engaging with clients. According to attorney Rooney, the use of Microsoft Teams has streamlined communication and interaction. “Our attorneys are now able to maintain eye contact with clients, which fosters a more personal connection,” he explains. The implementation of AI transcription services has not only eliminated the need for hiring transcriptionists but has also enhanced accessibility for attorneys with hearing impairments.
Time-Saving Solutions with AI Technology
The firm also benefited from AI technology in a different capacity. With the hiring of over 100 summer associates in 2024, Husch Blackwell faced the time-consuming task of writing bios for each new associate. Ordinarily, this would have required staff approximately 160 hours. However, utilizing tools such as Prompt Composer and the Microsoft framework, the firm completed this task within just one afternoon. “This is the kind of work that often overwhelms knowledge workers, but we managed to automate it with this technology,” states Rooney.
Streamlined Information Retrieval
One of Copilot’s impressive features is its ability to quickly fetch information. Attorneys can simply ask, “What do I know about [insert topic]?” The tool then scans through the entire Microsoft ecosystem, including PowerPoint presentations, documents, emails, and more, to provide relevant information. As attorney Helms mentions, this capability has enabled attorneys to save around 8,800 hours of work in 2024, allowing them to assemble cases more efficiently and offer better support to clients.
Key Benefits of AI in Law Firms
Increased Client Focus: By automating tasks such as note-taking, attorneys can concentrate more on client interaction, improving the quality of relationships.
Cost Efficiency: The reduction in hiring transcriptionists leads to significant cost savings while also making the firm more accessible to individuals with hearing challenges.
Enhanced Productivity: Automating routine tasks frees up valuable time for attorneys, enabling them to focus on more complex tasks and client casework.
- Quick Access to Information: Tools like Copilot facilitate rapid information retrieval, aiding attorneys in preparing cases and consulting relevant data without delay.
Conclusion
Husch Blackwell exemplifies the transformative impact of AI technology in the legal field. By integrating Microsoft Teams and Copilot, the firm has not only improved its efficiency and reduced operational costs but has also fostered deeper client relationships. As more legal firms explore AI solutions, the potential for enhanced client service and operational productivity continues to grow.
