The Peterson Haines founder will also be keeping an eye on the evolution of AI in law
Earlier this week, Carrie Peterson shared to Australasian Lawyer why she wanted to be a lawyer since she was seven. In the second half of this November interview, Peterson shares what three jobs she’d do simultaneously if she wasn’t in law, and her thoughts on AI use in the legal profession.
We are building a team of experts, rather than relying on just one person or partner (me) as the sole expert. I’m always genuinely excited about mentoring and sharing my knowledge.
We also want to primarily focus on attracting and relating talent over the next year. This is about more than just culture; it’s about innovation. We aim to create an environment where lawyers can focus on being lawyers by reducing the typical administrative tasks they often get bogged down with. We’ve built a supportive and encouraging space that helps them develop their own professional profiles.
I am interested in the potential introduction of mandatory alternative dispute resolution in commercial disputes, while also mindful of the challenges this may bring. Equally, I’m intrigued by technological innovations, particularly the use of AI, and how they will integrate into this space.
We use client engagement technologies and are actively working AI into the practice. We recognise AI should only be used in limited circumstances, but also appreciate its significant potential to reduce costs for clients when used properly.
Being less competitive with each other, and ethics.
Attracting top talent to a boutique firm is always a challenge. There’s often an assumption about the type of work we do and the compensation we offer. In the current economic climate, clients are increasingly focused on reducing legal costs – which is where we come in!
Looking ahead to 2025, I see AI posing significant challenges for the legal industry. Will some firms start using AI to replace junior lawyers and paralegals? If that happens, it could have a profound impact on the future of legal practice in Australia, particularly on how we train and develop our junior lawyers.
Externally, I’ll be watching the evolution of AI in the legal landscape. Internally, I’m excited for our growth and to be surrounded by like-minded people who are equally as passionate as myself.
Oh wow – trick question. Architect. Renovator/House flipper. Restaurateur. All three – at the same time.
