AI could eat Big Law's billable hours. Cooley's boss says bring it on.

Seasoned litigators who have built careers on billable hours are confronting a paradox: AI tools that automate research and drafting could dramatically cut the time they charge clients, yet leading firms are welcoming the disruption. Business Insider framed the shift as AI “could eat Big Law’s billable hours,” while Cooley’s managing partner responded, “bring it on,” signalling a surprising readiness to adapt. Law firms are racing to embed artificial intelligence, but the push focuses more on competitive edge than on client access.

Canadian Lawyer noted the “accessibility question” is absent from many firms’ AI strategies, while Law.com advised firms to start building their own AI capability rather than relying on vendors. Legal IT Insider asked whether firms are truly prepared for the next wave of technology, hinting at a gap between ambition and readiness. Reuters reported that AI‑powered firms are already drawing lawyers away from traditional big firms, suggesting the technology reshapes talent flows as quickly as workflows.

The combined reportage underscores a sector at a tipping point: firms that invest in AI may retain or grow market share, while those that lag could see clients and counsel migrate. What will determine whether AI expands access to legal services or merely reallocates billable time remains unanswered.