The use of artificial intelligence has triggered countless authors, professors and legislators around the world to analyze the impact that applying this technology will have on the practice of law. It is undeniable that their use will eventually affect the role of the legal profession, both positively and negatively, so it is important to start a debate on whether the implementation of these platforms will represent a challenge or a benefit for women in their professional practice. Above all, it is crucial to address existing challenges to prevent and correct any present conflict.
There is sufficient scientific evidence to support the positive impact of the use of artificial intelligence systems in the legal field. It has been shown that it can be molded to simulate cognitive processes, which is why it promises to automate and streamline work processes of lawyers, including the preparation of legal documents and structuring legal reasoning. Jobs in danger of automation are those that involve routine and repetitive tasks, that is, those that are easily replaceable by automation. On the other hand, jobs that require personal and leadership skills, such as more senior positions, are less likely to be at risk. This implies that the well-known and experienced glass ceiling will be even more rigid, and consequently gender equality will have to be fought more at management levels. According to an analysis by the company Workonlaw, in large law firms in Mexico the percentage of female partners in 2021 was 9%. This percentage has not increased significantly; some firms still do not have any women among their partners. The current competition that female lawyers face for management positions could be increased by the use of artificial intelligence systems, so it is important to seek equity in senior management positions.
