Best Lawyers Releases 2027 U.S. Rankings and Legal Market Report Highlighting Rapid AI Adoption
Best Lawyers has released its 2027 Best Law Firms rankings, recognizing over 15,000 firms in the United States. Accompanying the rankings is the third annual U.S. Legal Market Report, which reveals a massive surge in generative AI (GenAI) implementation. Among firms with 20 or more lawyers, full GenAI adoption rose to 28%, up from 11% the previous year, with larger firms leading the transition. The report also notes that while AI is driving efficiency, it is beginning to impact traditional billing models; 25% of GenAI-using firms reported reduced billable hours for certain tasks. Despite these technological shifts, alternative fee arrangements remain common. Additionally, smaller law firms (2–49 lawyers) showed significant financial strength, reporting average revenue increases of approximately 30%.
Topics: Generative AI Adoption Law Firm Rankings Legal Technology Professional Services Industry