How this law firm is using AI to streamline legal practices

Indian law firms, both large and small, are increasingly embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. Trilegal, a Mumbai-based corporate law firm, exemplifies this shift. In an interview with TechCircle, Nikhil Narendran, Partner- Technology, Media, and Telecom Practice at Trilegal, explains how the law firm is actively integrating emerging technologies to enhance legal delivery and client service.

Trilegal utilises Lucio AI, an AI platform for document review, generation, and research, tailored to specific practice areas. The firm continuously pilots new AI tools to optimise both legal practice and business operations.

“We continuously pilot new AI tools to improve both legal practice and business operations,” Narendran said, adding that to ensure confidentiality, Trilegal hosts AI tools like Lucio internally, safeguarding client data and preventing its use for external model training.

Speaking on how technology has improved the company’s operational efficiency across departments, Narendran explains that projects and infrastructure lawyers use AI to manage large diligence datasets, while the real estate practice utilises it for translating Indian languages to English. The litigation team also uses AI's chronology function to quickly draft timelines from court documents.

Trilegal’s 40-member technology team combines technological understanding with thought leadership and deep publishing experience. By researching nascent technologies and engaging in internal brainstorming, the firm customises legal strategies to support rapid growth and compliance for clients in fintech, healthtech and deeptech.

“Through international networks like ITechLaw and IAPP, we remain connected to global best practices, enabling them to provide agile, sector-specific regulatory advice to clients navigating multiple jurisdictions and evolving digital mandates,” said Narendran.

On the use cases, he said that Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and tech MNCs commonly seek support from Trilegal for entry strategy, tax structuring, real estate, and contracting. Established GCCs often require assistance with employment law and general corporate matters.

The company further advises innovative technology firms and identifies key regulatory challenges, including the complexities of Indian cybersecurity laws, which mandate reporting even for minor breaches to multiple regulators. According to Narendran, “Data localisation remains a major concern for companies entering India, with numerous sectoral guidelines and upcoming data protection laws potentially slowing entry. Global uncertainty surrounding AI regulations also impacts rollout, as companies often seek uniform global practices.”

The firm has also invested significantly in its digital transformation through talent, technology, and partnerships, including a Digital Innovation Group (DIG) comprising lawyers, the chief digital officer, and the head of practice transformation. Narendran said that partnerships with companies like Lucio and Microsoft have facilitated the implementation of advanced technologies. “We also foster innovation through internal programs that leverage the deep understanding and enthusiasm for technology among its lawyers,” he said.

India currently relies on sectoral AI regulations rather than comprehensive legislation like the EU AI Act. Increased transparency and accountability regulations are expected from a consumer law perspective, believes Narendran.

According to him, upcoming digital laws like the Digital India Act and Data Protection Act will disproportionately affect less-funded startups, but will also spur privacy-focused tech and startups. Global tech firms with experience in GDPR and other privacy laws will likely face an incremental compliance lift compared to Indian companies.

“Looking ahead, technology will disrupt traditional legal business models, enabling smaller firms to compete more effectively. Tech-empowered clients will demand more value-based billing, and AI will significantly aid legal decision-making by providing crucial insights and data,” Narendran summed up.