AI for in-house legal

In 2025, AI adoption within the legal teams of Finnish large-cap companies is universal, with Microsoft Copilot as the dominant tool. While adoption is widespread, sophistication levels vary, with few companies using specialised legal AI or custom enterprise solutions. Only 25% of companies allocate dedicated AI budgets for legal, though most plan to increase investments.

Key barriers include high costs, limited resources, technological complexity, and resistance to change. Selecting and integrating appropriate AI tools amid a crowded market also presents challenges. Opportunities focus on efficiency gains and quality improvements, especially in contract review. Cost savings are expected long-term, but workforce reductions are unlikely in the short term.

AI is shifting legal roles towards more strategic and process-oriented work, increasing the need for critical thinking and interpersonal skills. Companies seek external support for technology implementation, tool selection, and strategic planning, valuing practical insights and case examples.

Finnish legal departments show strong momentum in AI adoption but face resource and governance challenges. Strategic, well-supported implementation is essential to fully realise AI’s transformative potential in legal services.

About This Report

This report is based on survey responses from the legal teams of 24 Finnish large-cap public companies conducted in June–August 2025. All company identities have been anonymised to protect confidentiality.