Zach Anderson
Nov 14, 2025 16:27
Karen Buzard of A&O Shearman is advancing AI in regulation, emphasizing accountable AI governance and remodeling authorized companies with revolutionary options.
Karen Buzard, Associate and Head of the US Markets Innovation Group at A&O Shearman, is on the forefront of integrating synthetic intelligence (AI) into the authorized sector, in response to Harvey.ai. Her work emphasizes the event of AI-powered options to deal with advanced authorized and regulatory challenges, fostering innovation and setting new business requirements.
Main AI Adoption in Legislation
Buzard leads a crew of legal professionals, technologists, and builders centered on creating revolutionary options for shoppers. Her efforts in establishing sturdy AI governance and danger administration frameworks have been broadly adopted by main monetary establishments and corporates throughout the US. These frameworks are very important as they be sure that AI is used responsibly and successfully, mitigating potential dangers related to its deployment in authorized contexts.
Innovation and Its Affect
For Buzard, innovation transcends expertise; it includes difficult the established order and embracing risk-taking. Her strategy to innovation includes questioning present processes, exploring rising instruments, and collaborating throughout disciplines. This philosophy has been integral to her function, driving her to repeatedly push boundaries and implement novel options within the authorized subject.
The Position of Harvey in Authorized Apply
A key software in Buzard’s arsenal is Harvey, an AI platform tailor-made for the authorized sector. Harvey aids in varied points of authorized work, together with contract evaluation and due diligence, streamlining processes and enhancing effectivity. The platform’s skill to deal with massive volumes of contracts and flag key provisions considerably accelerates the due diligence course of, permitting authorized groups to deal with detailed evaluation.
Consumer Engagement and AI Adoption
One of the thrilling developments for Buzard is the elevated engagement from shoppers relating to generative AI (GenAI). Purchasers at the moment are extra proactive, searching for experience on leveraging GenAI, which represents a shift in shopper dynamics and highlights the transformative potential of AI in authorized companies. This client-driven curiosity underscores the worth and influence of AI instruments in enhancing authorized service supply.
Coaching and Change Administration
Efficient change administration and coaching have been essential in driving AI adoption at A&O Shearman. Buzard emphasizes the significance of hands-on coaching and embedding AI studying into common workflows. This strategy ensures legal professionals are comfy and assured in utilizing AI instruments, facilitating smoother integration and adoption.
Way forward for AI in Authorized Providers
Buzard envisions a future the place GenAI basically reshapes the authorized business. The emergence of hybrid roles, similar to lawyer technologists, is already evident, as professionals mix authorized experience with AI capabilities. Buzard anticipates that GenAI will democratize authorized companies, offering broader entry and bridging the justice hole, finally driving the business ahead.
Picture supply: Shutterstock

