Jen Berrent, CEO of Covenant, led a conversation on how artificial intelligence is transforming legal practice and reshaping the future of law firms. Berrent, drawing from her experience as both a lawyer and CEO, provided insights into the evolving AI landscape and discussed its implications for lawyers, clients, and the delivery of legal services in the coming years.
Berrent discussed the progression of AI tools and how machine-learning systems are helping lawyers analyze large datasets faster and, at times, more accurately than ever before. She also addressed the shifting role of an attorney as work moves from document review to higher-level strategic advising and client counseling. Berrent highlighted the growing need for tech-literate lawyers who can collaborate with AI ethically and effectively.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on how Berrent’s firm, Covenant, is restructuring around AI-driven workflows, including smaller teams, the use of integrated AI tools, and more affordable and flexible billing models. Berrent also predicted a major rise in the role and strategic importance of in-house counsel as companies adopt AI more deeply.
Berrent emphasized that, even as AI grows more powerful, it remains essential to develop human-centric legal skills that technology cannot replace. The next generation of lawyers will need to bridge the gap between legal reasoning and data-driven insight, combining technological fluency with judgment, empathy, and communication.
The overarching takeaway of the session was that AI is not a threat but a catalyst for transformation in the legal profession.
