Nearly seven in ten legal professionals now use AI tools in their work, marking one of the fastest technology shifts the profession has seen—yet most firms remain unprepared to govern that change, according to a new industry report.
The 2026 Legal Industry Report from 8am draws on insights from more than 1,300 legal professionals across roles, firm sizes, and practice areas, examining how the sector is responding to rapid advances in legal technology.
AI adoption outpaces readiness
While 69% of respondents report using general-purpose AI tools at work and 61% say the technology saves them time each week, fewer than half say their firms provide formal training on responsible AI use.
The findings suggest firms are capturing efficiency gains but lagging on governance, risk management, and workforce enablement.
Access to justice remains strained
Most respondents describe access to justice as poor, pointing to legal costs and court system inefficiencies as persistent barriers despite technology-driven modernization efforts.
Profession faces institutional pressures
Legal professionals also reported growing concern about polarization and misinformation, identifying both as emerging threats to institutional stability and the rule of law.
Perspectives vary across roles
The report highlights differences between lawyers and other legal professionals in how technology adoption, professional pressures, and reform priorities are viewed across the legal ecosystem.
Founded in 2005 and formerly known as AffiniPay, 8am provides business and practice management software used by legal and accounting professionals, including platforms such as LawPay, MyCase, and DocketWise.