The great dilemma for law firms: invest in junior lawyers or in AI

The emergence of generative AI is redefining the daily work of law firms and, with it, the traditional model of learning by doing: the repetitive tasks that have been used for years to train junior staff can now be automated in seconds. In this new scenario, the debate is no longer just about technology, but also about talent: what is learned, how it is learned, and which skills will make the difference.

In this context, Alba Pascual from ECIJA emphasizes that the effect of AI is not to reduce the talent pool, but to raise the competency level from the early years of the career:

"I do not think that AI will significantly reduce the hiring of junior professionals, although it is transforming the profile and skills that companies need. Technology accelerates repetitive tasks and strengthens analysis, so the junior profile will need to incorporate digital skills, adaptability, and critical thinking. A solid legal education will continue to be essential, and AI will be a complementary tool. We believe this is a great opportunity to enhance the role of the lawyer from the earliest stages of their career."

Their contribution indicates a fundamental change: if AI takes over part of the more mechanical work, junior profiles need to develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and professional judgment more quickly, learning to use technology as a leverage tool — and not as a substitute — while reinforcing a solid legal foundation as the core of the profession.