Microsoft Launches AI Accelerator to Help Legal Firms Build Agentic AI Road Maps
Legal teams face constant pressure to respond quickly and accurately to client needs. Take the example of Rajah & Tann, a law firm where an incoming email about a new legal suit could soon be handled by an AI agent. This system would automatically route the message to the right lawyers, highlight key legal points, and even draft initial legal opinions. Such agentic AI tools are set to boost efficiency in legal workflows.
What Is Agentic AI?
Agentic AI refers to artificial intelligence systems capable of making decisions and executing tasks autonomously to achieve specific goals. Unlike traditional AI that waits for human commands, agentic AI can plan, act independently, and handle complex processes. Autonomous vehicles are a well-known example of this technology in action.
Microsoft’s Agentic AI Accelerator Programme
On August 1, Microsoft announced its new Agentic AI Accelerator programme, aimed at helping businesses develop strategies for integrating agentic AI into their operations. The programme offers up to $700,000 worth of services to selected companies, including collaboration with technology partners such as EY, NCS, and Accenture Avanade.
Beyond this, up to 300 local businesses will receive baseline support comprising $250,000 in Azure cloud credits, AI training, and access to tools. This initiative forms part of Singapore’s Enterprise Compute Initiative (ECI), a $150 million government effort to support AI transformation projects by co-funding 70% of consultancy costs, capped at $105,000 per company.
Agentic AI in Legal Practice
Lawyers often work under tight deadlines, and agentic AI can help manage routine tasks efficiently. For example, an AI agent might review dispute documents, identify relevant issues, and draft preliminary legal responses, allowing lawyers to focus on higher-level analysis and strategy. While AI can assist with initial work, final legal advice remains the responsibility of the lawyer.
Benefits for Legal Teams
- Automated triage of client communications to the right experts
- Faster identification of critical legal issues
- Preliminary drafting of legal documents to save time
- Enhanced collaboration between human lawyers and AI agents
Legal firms adopting agentic AI can improve response times and increase capacity without compromising quality.
Microsoft’s Perspective and Wider Implications
Microsoft Singapore’s acting managing director highlighted agentic AI as the next phase of AI technology. Businesses that integrate AI agents alongside their teams can scale operations faster, adapt more readily, and explore new ways to create value. A recent report from Microsoft found that 82% of business leaders plan to deploy AI agents within 12 to 18 months to expand their workforce capabilities.
This programme complements government initiatives and positions Singapore as a hub for AI innovation.
Government Support and Talent Development
Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry emphasized the importance of equipping people with the skills to leverage AI tools. Microsoft’s collaboration with SkillsFuture Singapore aims to help small and medium-sized enterprises upskill their workforce in AI technologies.
For legal professionals interested in strengthening their AI capabilities, exploring targeted AI training could be valuable. Resources like Complete AI Training’s courses for legal professionals offer practical paths to understanding how AI tools can integrate into legal work.
Looking Ahead
The launch of Microsoft’s Agentic AI Accelerator opens new doors for legal firms to adopt AI systems that work alongside lawyers, improving efficiency and effectiveness. As AI continues to advance, legal teams prepared to integrate these technologies will be better positioned to meet client demands and handle complex cases with agility.
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