“We’re All in This Together”: Law Firms Pursue “Symbiotic” AI Relationships

Sterne Kessler Director Daniel Block discussed recent trends in artificial intelligence (AI) requests from clients with Managing IP.

Block noted an uptick in clients researching how AI tools can be used to increase efficiencies, stating, “Clients started saying, ‘maybe we should talk to our outside counsel first and see what they’re doing.’” He added, “We then have a call with them and walk through our AI programs internally.”

Block spoke to the insights he’s gained from clients on AI tools, “We tell clients, these are the tools that we think you should look at. Then, we ask what tools they are using, so we can look at them. We also do some brainstorming sessions, where they come to us with problems, or we come to them with problems, and we jointly brainstorm solutions using AI.” He continued, “We’re also collaborating with clients on AI projects, which helps us jointly develop products that can help service their legal needs.”

Block stated, “Just before the holidays, I had a conversation with some researchers about how they’re using AI, and I helped them develop a policy on what’s an appropriate use of AI and what’s not from an IP perspective.”

Block also reflected on the higher interest in AI tools from biotech companies than Silicon Valley clients, likely due to the uncertainty from biotech clients about what AI tools are best for their operations.