AI Won’t Replace You, But It Might Replace Those Who Don’t Use It

‍AI in Asia’s Legal Industry: It’s Here, and It’s Real

If you’d told me a few years ago I’d be chatting with candidates in Hong Kong and Singapore about AI just as much as billables, I’d have laughed. But here we are, and honestly, it’s an exciting shift.

AI is now a regular part of legal recruitment conversations. Junior lawyers want to know how firms are using AI, and firms want to know if junior lawyers can use it. From contract review and legal research to drafting and due diligence, firms across Asia are adopting tools like Harvey and Lexis+ AI to streamline work and improve client service.

But here’s the thing: technology is only as good as the people using it. Firms are looking for junior lawyers who are curious, proactive, and ready to embrace change. As one partner put it:

"AI won’t replace junior lawyers, but junior lawyers who use AI might replace those who don’t."

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How Law Firms in Hong Kong and Singapore Are Using AI

Legal tech is turning tasks that used to take hours into ones that now take minutes. The goal isn’t to cut junior roles, it’s to make them more impactful.

Firms in Asia are now asking candidates:

• “Have you used AI or legal tech in your current role?”
• “How do you stay updated on tech trends?”
• “Would you be open to AI training?”

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Your Answers Could Set You Apart.

One challenge, though, is the limited jurisdictional coverage of many AI tools in Asia Pacific. Unlike in the US or Europe, many vendors don’t yet offer broad functionality across the region. This means firms in Hong Kong and Singapore must take a more strategic approach to implementation.

One international firm we spoke with has developed a clear, three-strand AI strategy:

• Boosting productivity through everyday AI tools
• Using specialised, function-specific platforms (like IP solutions)
• Creating bespoke, client-facing AI products

And importantly, they want associates who support this journey. Those who engage with AI, adapt quickly, and help the firm evolve are standing out. Being someone who champions innovation, rather than resists it, is becoming a valued asset in today’s legal teams.

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AI as a Unique Selling Point for Law Firms in Asia

More firms are now using AI capability as a USP to attract top junior talent. This includes:

• Structured AI training for new joiners
• Innovation teams involving associates
• Opportunities to test and improve tools in real workflows
  

If you're exploring new roles, don’t be afraid to ask:

• “Will I receive AI training?
• “Can I contribute to how the firm uses legal tech?”

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How Junior Lawyers in Hong Kong and Singapore Can Stay Ahead

You don’t need to be a tech expert, but you do need to stay open. Here’s how:

• Learn the AI tools already available in your firm
• Join innovation or legal tech working groups
• Be proactive in learning about new developments in AI

Being known as someone who understands and embraces AI, even at a basic level, makes you more valuable.

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Final Thoughts: Future-Proofing Your Legal Career in Asia

AI isn’t going to make junior lawyers irrelevant, it’s going to make adaptable ones invaluable. If you’re open to learning and thoughtful about how you apply AI, you’re already ahead.

Whether you’re working in Hong Kong, Singapore, or considering a move to Asia, now is the time to lean in. The legal profession is evolving and those who grow with it will thrive.

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