Jackson Lewis Accelerates Legal Innovation With New Technology Initiatives
NEW YORK, NY (January 23, 2025) National employment law firm Jackson Lewis P.C. has reaffirmed its commitment to innovation with a series of initiatives designed to enhance collaboration, quality and client service.
Following the release of its first-ever generative AI policy and foundational training on generative AI for all employees, the firm, in partnership with Microsoft, conducted a series of Prompt-a-thons in various business services’ departments. The firm’s Knowledge Management department kicked off the first Prompt-a-thon, a virtual, multi-day competition that challenged participants to explore generative AI use cases and develop advanced AI prompts using M365 CoPilot applications. The Prompt-a-thon enabled the Jackson Lewis team and Microsoft experts to work together to hone their skills in AI prompt engineering, ensuring that the firm continues to lead in responsible and innovative AI utilization. The Marketing & Business Development and Communications departments held subsequent Prompt-a-thons; future competitions are planned for this winter.
"The Prompt-a-thon was an incredible opportunity for our team to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on with the latest generative AI technology,” said Senior Director of Practice and Innovation Kristen M. Baylis. “It was more than just a competition; it was a chance to dive into the nitty-gritty of prompt engineering and explore impactful use cases with guidance from Microsoft’s experts. This training has not only sharpened our skills but also reinforced our commitment to staying ahead of the curve in legal tech. By learning and adapting, we’re ensuring that Jackson Lewis can offer our clients the best possible service in an ever-evolving industry.”
Jackson Lewis is committed to thoughtfully exploring advancements in legal technology to enhance our services. As part of this effort, the firm has been testing vLex’s Vincent AI, a generative AI tool that supports legal research and assists with document analysis and other legal workflows. In doing so, Jackson Lewis has taken steps to ensure the safety and security of firm and client data. Vincent AI offers capabilities such as identifying relevant cases, summarizing legal documents and streamlining research processes. The firm is currently conducting a phased and limited rollout to ensure the tool meets its standards for accuracy, efficiency and security.
By leveraging Vincent AI’s capabilities, we can provide clients with deeper insights, streamlined research and innovative solutions tailored to their unique needs,” said Jackson Lewis Board Member Peter C. Moskowitz. “The firm’s investment in Vincent AI reflects our commitment to harnessing the latest advancements in legal technology to deliver unparalleled value for our clients."
Jackson Lewis’ investment in innovation goes beyond tools; it includes an investment in exceptional talent. Most recently, this includes the addition of Arup Das as the firm’s senior director of data service & AI. With more than 20 years of AI and machine learning experience, Arup will lead the firm’s data and AI strategy. He brings a wealth of knowledge in crafting and executing strategies for Fortune 1000 companies, consistently delivering results in dynamic environments. Arup is renowned for his ability to lead cross-functional teams, drive digital transformation and foster innovation across the legal, financial, real estate, media and healthcare sectors. This follows the recent hire of Chief Technology Officer Clifford Forrester and the promotion of former practicing attorney Kristen Baylis to senior director of practice and innovation, to oversee innovation efforts in addition to the practice and knowledge management department she has led since 2021.
Additionally, in the fall of 2024, the firm took another significant step toward embedding innovation into its core by launching an Innovation Center of Excellence—a cross-functional initiative that unites leaders from diverse departments to drive transformative change. The Center of Excellence will serve as a hub for setting the firm’s innovation strategy, identifying and evaluating emerging technologies and ideas, actively seeking innovative ideas from employees, and fostering a culture where creativity and innovation thrive at every level. By breaking down silos and encouraging collaboration, the Innovation Center of Excellence ensures that innovation is not just a concept but a shared mission, enabling the firm to deliver smarter, more impactful solutions for its clients and the firm alike. The Center of Excellence is led by Kristen and is comprised of cross-departmental team members including Clifford, Arup, Principal and Chief Data Officer Thomas Barnett, Senior Director of Operations Nicole Castiglia, and Director of Data Analytics Jared Woolstenhulme.
Jackson Lewis' focus on innovation isn't new. In 2018, the International Legal Technology Association (ILTA) named it "Innovative Law Firm of the Year," recognizing its efforts to enhance legal services through technology and client-focused solutions.
"Our commitment to innovation stems from our role as trusted advisors,” said Firm Chair Kevin Lauri. “By continually evolving our practice and embracing new technologies, we're better equipped to guide our clients through today's complex legal and compliance landscape.”
About Jackson Lewis
Focused on labor and employment law since 1958, Jackson Lewis P.C.’s 1,100+ attorneys located in major cities nationwide consistently identify and respond to new ways workplace law intersects business. We help employers develop proactive strategies, strong policies and business-oriented solutions to cultivate high-functioning workforces that are engaged, stable and diverse, and share our clients' goals to emphasize inclusivity and respect for the contribution of every employee.
Additional information about the firm can be found at jacksonlewis.com.
For more information, please contact:
Lara Hamm, Chief Communications Officer
T: (267) 319-7803 / E: Lara.Hamm@jacksonlewis.com
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