P2P

42 In "The future of AI in litigation," a recent publication featuring legal industry experts, several contributors reinforced this imperative. Gyorgy Pados, Associate Director, Practice Technology at White & Case, put it this way: "Firms must move from fragmented point solutions to integrated, intelligent platforms with true interoperability. This unified approach allows data to flow seamlessly across matter management, billing, document review, and research. AI-powered orchestration layers should connect tools so one action triggers downstream processes automatically." Centralization does not eliminate human judgment. Instead, it creates more space for it. When lawyers spend less time reconciling documents across systems, they can focus more on narrative development, risk analysis, and client counsel. Another contributor, Kate Orr, Orrick's Managing Director of Practice Innovation, noted: "In the near term, AI will be woven into every phase of the litigation lifecycle. Fact development, motion practice, deposition prep, and trial strategy will all benefit from workflows that pair lawyer judgment with AI-enabled solutions." CONTINUOUS EVOLUTION, NOT ONE-TIME IMPLEMENTATION Another defining feature of the consolidation phase will be vendor maturity. Many AI tools entered the market quickly in response to demand. Some will evolve into durable, enterprise-grade solutions. Others will not. Law firms should prioritize platforms and strategic partners that deliver continuously evolving AI capabilities -- supported by clear product roadmaps, ongoing model refinement, and regular updates shaped by practitioner feedback. Firms should look for vendors that develop enhancements in close collaboration with litigation professionals. When real-world case experience informs AI development, the resulting tools are more defensible, more relevant, and better aligned with how litigators think. GOVERNANCE, SECURITY, AND ETHICAL READINESS As AI becomes embedded in litigation management, governance will move from a peripheral concern to a board- level issue. Clients increasingly expect transparency about how AI is used in their matters. Courts are issuing guidance on AI-assisted drafting and review. Regulators continue to refine standards related to data privacy, explainability, and oversight. The stakes are rising. The BTI research reports that about 31% of clients faced "bet-the- company" litigation in 2025, more than double the percentage in 2023. As disputes become more consequential and more embedded in core business operations, AI governance shifts from operational compliance to enterprise risk management. Consolidation will favor platforms

• Cover