When I embarked on my career as a Legal PA in 1991, the workplace looked vastly different from what it does today. Computers were in their infancy, and the tools I relied on were a typewriter and a hefty amount of manual organisation. Back then, the idea of machines assisting with complex tasks or making our roles more efficient seemed far-fetched.
At 17, I found computers intimidating—an unfamiliar technology that felt more like a challenge than an aid. I distinctly remember the cautious curiosity that came with pressing keys on a computer for the first time. Yet, as I began using them regularly, I quickly realised how transformative they could be. Tasks that once took hours—like manually retyping entire documents for a single error—could now be completed in minutes with a computer. This marked the beginning of my journey into a world where technology would constantly evolve, shaping not only how I worked but also how I approached my role as a Legal PA.
The Rise of AI: Scepticism and Realisation
Fast-forward over three decades, and we’re now witnessing the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot have entered the scene, promising to revolutionise how we work. Initially, I was sceptical—and truthfully, a little apprehensive. The thought of AI taking over jobs, including my own, was a common fear. Would a machine one day replace the nuanced, detail-oriented, and personal aspects of a Legal PA’s role?
Despite my reservations, I decided to explore these tools. ChatGPT, for instance, proved to be a surprisingly helpful assistant for brainstorming, drafting, and even simplifying complex information. It wasn’t perfect—it couldn’t fully understand the context of a legal case or anticipate the unique needs of my team. However, what it could do was save time, handle repetitive tasks, and free up mental space for the more critical aspects of my work.
AI: A Partner, Not a Replacement
One of the most significant realisations I’ve had is that AI, much like computers in the 1990s, is here to stay. Rather than seeing it as a threat, I now view it as a partner. AI can’t replace the human qualities that are essential in a Legal PA—judgment, empathy, adaptability, and the ability to manage complex interpersonal dynamics.
Instead, it enhances our roles. For example, AI tools can draft routine documents, schedule appointments, or even analyse data faster than ever before. This allows Legal PAs to focus on strategic tasks that require a personal touch—building relationships, anticipating needs, and managing the nuanced details of a busy legal practice.
The Future of Legal PAs and AI
Looking back, I can see how much technology has transformed my career. From typewriters to cutting-edge AI, the tools we use have evolved, but the core of our roles remains unchanged: we are here to provide exceptional support. As AI continues to grow, I believe it will further enhance our ability to do this.
Legal PAs are not becoming redundant; we are becoming more efficient, adaptable, and prepared for the future. Embracing tools like AI isn’t about losing control of our roles—it’s about staying ahead, learning new skills, and recognising the value that both humans and machines bring to the table.
As someone who has seen the full arc of technological evolution in the workplace, I’m excited about what’s to come. If AI is in its infancy now, I can only imagine what it will become—and how it will continue to shape our roles in ways we can’t yet foresee.
In the end, technology will never replace the human element. Instead, it will empower us to focus on what we do best: providing thoughtful, strategic, and irreplaceable support.
