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    Law Technology Today

    2025

    AI Adoption in Law Firms: How Solo, Small, and Mid-Sized Firms Compare

    Clio

    May 12, 2025

    2 min read

    Artificial Intelligence Business Continuity Practice Management Solo & Small Firms Technology

    Summary 

    • Mid-sized law firms are leading the way with AI adoption: With more resources and infrastructure, they’re using AI to streamline workflows, improve collaboration, and scale operations.
    • Solo and small firms are using AI to save time: These firms often adopt accessible tools like ChatGPT or Clio Duo to simplify routine tasks and boost efficiency.
    • AI adoption looks different across firm sizes: But every firm can benefit by choosing the right tools and creating a thoughtful strategy for future AI integration.
    AI Adoption in Law Firms: How Solo, Small, and Mid-Sized Firms Compare
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    The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal industry is undeniable. As firms evolve, so do their approaches to technology—and the data shows clear differences in how AI is being adopted across firm sizes.

    Every year, Clio’s Legal Trends Report highlights key trends shaping the legal profession. In this blog, we break down how solo, small, and mid-sized firms are approaching AI—and what that means for your practice.

    Where the Data Comes From

    The insights in this post are based on:

    • Aggregated, anonymized data from tens of thousands of U.S. legal professionals using Clio
    • Survey responses from 2,400+ legal professionals
    • A nationally representative survey of 1,003 U.S. adults

    Who’s leading the way in AI?

    For the first time, mid-sized firms are ahead of the curve in AI adoption. While solo and small firms have traditionally led in tech use, they’re now less likely to use AI broadly.

    Why the shift? It largely comes down to resources. With larger budgets and in-house IT support, mid-sized firms are better equipped to integrate AI tools across their operations.

    That said, solo and small firms aren’t far behind. Over 80% of legal professionals—regardless of firm size—believe AI use will grow in the next year.

    Looking for an easy starting point? Clio Duo integrates AI directly into your case management software, making AI adoption easier than ever.

    What AI Tools are Firms Using?

    The tools law firms use vary by size:

    • Solo and small firms tend to rely on legal research platforms and general-purpose AI (like ChatGPT).
    • Mid-sized firms are adopting more specialized tools for document review, automation, and client communications.

    These differences reflect not just budget, but also the complexity of each firm’s operations and the return they expect from AI.

    Why Firms are Adopting AI

    The top benefits of AI depend on firm size:

    • Solo and small firms are drawn to time savings and improved efficiency—especially when managing admin-heavy workloads.
    • Mid-sized firms are focused on improving work quality, managing larger caseloads, and enhancing team collaboration.

    No matter the size, the goal is the same: do more with less. The path to that goal just looks different depending on your firm’s structure and needs.

    What Does this Data Mean for my Law Firm?

    It’s clear that there is no “one size fits all” approach to AI adoption in law firms. And, while it’s clear that all firms recognize the value of AI, their motivations, resources, and use cases differ in meaningful ways.

    So, what should your firm take away from this data?

    If you’re a solo or small law firm:

    If you’re a mid-sized law firm:

    Consider starting small: Given your comparatively-limited resources, solo and small firms may wish to start by integrating affordable, general-purpose AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) or AI tools embedded in platforms they already use (e.g., Clio Duo). This minimizes the implementation burden while delivering immediate time-saving benefits.

    Use AI to optimize team collaboration and workflow integration: With larger teams and existing operational infrastructure, mid-sized firms can go beyond simple automation. Explore AI tools that enhance collaboration (e.g., document review, task management, and client communication tools) across practice areas.

    Focus on use cases that impact time and efficiency: Since time savings and efficiency are core needs for solo and small firms, prioritize tools that automate or streamline routine administrative work, such as document drafting, scheduling, intake, or research. These can help you free up capacity without completely overhauling your processes.

    Leverage AI as a strategic growth enabler: Mid-sized firms should view AI not just as a time saver, but as a business accelerator. Use it to scale operations, improve the quality of service, and unlock new service models—particularly those requiring high efficiency or quick turnaround.

    Plan for future AI adoption: Even if you’re not in a position to adopt AI now, keeping informed and building an AI adoption roadmap will be crucial. AI tools will inevitably become more accessible over time, and firms that prepare early will gain a competitive edge.

    Invest in internal AI competency: To maintain their early lead, mid-sized firms should consider formalizing AI evaluation and training processes. Dedicated IT or innovation teams can experiment with and assess new tools to stay ahead of competitors and industry trends.

    Final Thoughts on AI in Legal

    AI is here to stay—and it’s already reshaping legal practice. Whether you’re navigating leaner resources as a solo firm or exploring new efficiencies as a mid-sized team, your firm can benefit by taking a strategic, tailored approach to AI adoption.

    Want more insights? Download the latest Legal Trends Report to see how law firms across the country are preparing for an AI-driven future.