The AI Impact Timeline: What to Expect
The automation wave for paralegals will unfold in distinct phases. By 2028, expect 55-60% of traditional tasks to be handled by AI, with legal research, document preparation, and case investigation at the forefront. This process is already underway, as AI tools automate 60-70% of paralegal time at a fraction of the cost.
The early impact, starting as soon as 2026, will heavily affect entry-level paralegals and those primarily engaged in routine document work. These roles are most susceptible to displacement due to the standardized nature of their tasks.
Mid-wave transformation will see AI further integrate into legal workflows. While specific dates for this phase are not detailed, the trend indicates a significant shift in the skills required for paralegals to remain relevant beyond 2028.