Over a third of Victorian lawyers use AI in legal practice
More than one in three lawyers in Victoria use artificial intelligence tools in their work, according to research released by the Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner (VLSB+C). The 2025 Victorian Lawyer Census found that 36.7 percent of respondents use AI, with over half doing so daily or weekly.
The research reveals a significant gap: lawyers see AI primarily as a productivity tool, not as a way to improve client service. This matters because the untapped potential extends beyond faster work-it could affect access to justice and service quality.
How lawyers are using AI today
Lawyers most commonly deploy AI for background research on non-legal issues, legal research and case analysis, and client communication. They also use it for document review, transcription, and contract drafting.
Fewer lawyers use AI for legal decision-making or producing court documents. This pattern suggests the profession is still in early stages of adoption, focusing on lower-risk applications.
The productivity trap
Fiona McLeay, the VLSB+C's chief executive officer and commissioner, said the findings show lawyers value AI mainly for improving workflows. "There's much more potential for AI to enhance client services, which remains largely untapped," she said.
Among survey respondents, 71.3 percent cited improved efficiency and productivity as a major benefit. Fewer associated AI with affordability, accessibility, or better quality outcomes for clients.
Nigel Balmer, research director at the Legal Services Research Centre, warned that without deliberate effort to broaden AI's benefits, the technology could simply entrench existing advantages. "There is a real risk that the technology simply embeds existing advantage rather than making justice more equitable and democratic," he said.
Professional obligations and disclosure
The survey found strong agreement on professional standards. Nearly all respondents (95.5 percent) agreed that lawyers have a duty to ensure AI use complies with professional obligations. Most also believed lawyers should disclose AI use to clients and in litigation.
The VLSB+C has issued a joint statement on AI use in legal practice setting expectations for Victorian lawyers. McLeay encouraged the profession to familiarize itself with the statement and said the board plans to release additional practical guidance later this year.
What's holding adoption back
The research identified three emerging challenges. First: the effects on developing and retaining key professional skills. Second: the unexplored potential to improve service quality, affordability, and access to justice. Third: insufficient support for lawyers in non-traditional settings to understand their professional obligations.
Practice area, years of experience, and organizational type all affect whether lawyers adopt AI. The VLSB+C plans to consult with the profession on what additional guidance would help.
Balmer said both training and clear guidelines matter, not just for managing risk but for recognizing benefits beyond efficiency. "I encourage lawyers to think beyond simply gaining a competitive advantage," McLeay said. "By using AI to drive higher quality, affordability, accessibility, and client satisfaction, lawyers can deliver even greater value."
For lawyers looking to understand how AI fits into legal work, resources on AI for Legal professionals and an AI Learning Path for Paralegals cover document review, contract analysis, legal research automation, and compliance support.
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