Source: Iberian Lawyer

A new report reveals a concerning trend: as AI transforms the legal profession, women risk being left behind despite comprising the majority of legal professionals. “No Woman Left Behind: Closing the AI Gender Gap in Law” – a collaboration between Linklaters, The Next 100 Years, and She Breaks the Law – highlights this growing disparity and offers solutions.

The Representation Paradox

Women now make up 53% of law firm professionals and 61% of in-house legal departments. Yet this achievement masks a troubling reality: equal representation hasn’t translated to equal technological adoption.

While 77% of respondents believe AI will dramatically reshape legal practice, only 52% consider themselves “very well-informed” about these technologies. More concerning, 31% report only basic knowledge, and 17% acknowledge significant gaps in their understanding.

“We’re witnessing a paradox where women have finally achieved majority status in the profession but may be excluded from its technological future,” notes Paloma Fierro, partner and global co-head of diversity at Linklaters.

Key Barriers

The study identifies several obstacles preventing women from embracing AI tools:

• Limited Implementation: 37% report their employers haven’t implemented AI tools
• Trust Issues: 37% express concerns about accuracy, 43% about algorithmic bias
• Perceived Value: 27% fail to see tangible benefits from AI
• Confidence Barriers: 18% cite fear and lack of confidence as major barriers

Creating an Inclusive AI Future

Shilpa Bhandarkar, partner and head of client tech & AI team at Linklaters, emphasises the need for visible role models: “Utilising celebrated female leaders to champion AI can generate enthusiasm and address uncertainties.”

Additional recommendations include:

• Dedicating time within work schedules specifically for AI training
• Showcasing targeted use cases that demonstrate practical value
• Integrating AI literacy into career development frameworks
• Providing access to mentoring programs

A Critical Moment

As AI increasingly shapes legal practice, those who master these tools gain significant advantages. If current disparities persist, the profession risks recreating gender inequalities in new forms.

“This is a pivotal moment,” concludes Fierro. “We have the opportunity to ensure that technological advancement enhances rather than undermines gender equality – but that outcome requires conscious action from leaders across the industry.”

Read more: Iberian Lawyer