Stephenson Harwood makes second significant investment in Gen AI and launches AI taskforce to advise clients

Law firm Stephenson Harwood has announced its second significant investment in Generative AI, in collaboration with Curvestone. The partnership enables the firm to use Curvestone's WorkflowGPT platform, and provides the capability to build custom solutions for internal use and for clients.

Simultaneously, the firm has launched an AI taskforce to advise clients on all aspects of adopting and developing artificial intelligence.

"We're committed to continually exploring ways to improve and innovate the services we deliver to our clients," said Eifion Morris, Stephenson Harwood's chief executive. "Technology is one of our five strategic priority sectors, and our focus on tech gives us an advantage in integrating solutions into our work. By adopting the technologies we advise our clients on – including cutting-edge products to our suite of AI tools – ensures we continue to lead in both service delivery and sector expertise."

Curvestone WorkflowGPT

The firm's Gen AI strategy was first announced in May 2024 with the adoption of Harvey AI for some legal tasks. Following an extensive trial period and evaluation, the firm has taken the next step in its ambitious AI strategy with the addition of WorkflowGPT.

"Our Generative AI strategy is designed to enhance the way we work with clients and the services we provide," said Paul Orchard, Stephenson Harwood's head of innovation. "Our collaboration with Curvestone and its core platform will enable us to build custom solutions for both us and our clients, so we can continue to deliver the first-rate service our clients expect."

AI Taskforce

"We've living through a period where the influence of AI is rapidly evolving, and staying ahead of developments is crucial," said Simon Bollans, partner and head of the technology sector group. "With the EU AI Act and plans for AI legislation in the UK and other major jurisdictions coming soon, understanding AI and its legal and regulatory landscape has never been more vital."

In response to the rapidly changing landscape, the AI taskforce helps clients understand AI and the legal and regulatory implications. Tailored to meet client's specific requirements, the taskforce's cross-practice expertise ranges from AI procurement and due diligence to cyber security and minimum standards and the use of AI in managing litigation.

Stephenson Harwood has been using AI technology to enhance the support it provides to clients for more than six years. Adopting innovative technologies has improved efficiencies across multiple areas of the business, from title review work in real estate matters, to document disclosure and due diligence work for M&A transactions.

A central premise of Stephenson Harwood's genAI strategy is ensuring that the technology is used in a secure and responsible manner.