It selected eBrevia as its main artificial intelligence (AI) tool of choice to be used on M&A and other transactional work for its global clients. It will combine its legal expertise with the software provider's industry-leading artificial intelligence to assist in performing contract analysis across a significant portion of its global due diligence work delivering accurate and efficient contract review in Asia, North America and Europe. Baker McKenzie offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, Dusseldorf, Vienna, Toronto and Chicago are tailoring eBrevia’s machine learning to individual practice groups and jurisdictions, and plans are already underway to extend the reach of the programme. 

Innovative

Paul Rawlinson, global chair of Baker McKenzie says: 'Digitisation, artificial intelligence and machine learning are all very real and the legal industry is right in the middle of the changes they will bring. Being truly innovative means listening to clients and understanding the challenges they face -  so we can adapt and make sure the service we provide fits not just for today's technological challenges but also for the future.' 

Smarter

Baker McKenzie's Erik Scheer, who chairs the innovation committee, says AI is also about using smarter ways to make the very best of lawyers' time and talents: 'We are applying a broad range of artificial intelligence tools for due diligence, contracts, and e-discovery where these technologies can ensure market-leading efficiency. Innovation doesn't happen overnight - we are always learning more and adapting as we go .Whether this means learning new technical skills or deploying new models for enabling new technology. Clients expect us not just to keep up, but to set the pace.'

Tailored 

eBrevia’s machine learning employs cutting edge artificial intelligence technology to quickly gauge significant and relevant information in lengthy contracts and its algorithm can be tailored to complement lawyers’ specific expertise and practice areas.  eBrevia aims to make lawyers become more efficient and produce more accurate work for clients. The AI software’s ability to quickly find and extract deeply buried information amidst complex documents means that lawyers' time and talents are directed toward the higher value, judgement-based work.

Design thinking

Earlier this year Baker McKenzie launched its global innovation committee and pioneered the design thinking approach globally at a law firm.Long-term  the firm's innovation framework includes machine learning, services transformation and technology investments.