Pro Bono in the Age of AI: A Launchpad for Next Gen lawyers
On Tuesday 4th November 2025 the QMLAC, qLegal, Baker McKenzie and Fieldfisher celebrated Pro Bono Week 2025 with an event focusing on how pro bono can be a launch pad to prepare the lawyers of tomorrow with AI literacy.
The event started with a hybrid panel discussion chaired by Emma Rehal-Wilde and featured: LLB Law Student Jimin Park (QMUL), clinicians Dr Francine Ryan (Open University) and Andy Unger (London South Bank University), Enterprise Architect Paul McMonagle (Taylor Wessing) and Pro Bono Senior Associate Catriona Filmer (Fieldfisher).
Discussions included:
- the importance of students using and experimenting with AI tools to upskill,
- the value of clinical legal education as a forum for working with AI,
- the importance of lawyers of the future working in conjunction with AI rather than being afraid of it
- understanding that AI is unlikely to replace legal skills and lawyers who can use AI will be prioritised in the job market,
- taking responsibility for the outcome of AI for both ethical and practical reasons,
- being curious and maintaining criticality as a skill alongside tech advancements.
After a short break all those in the room considered the practical ways that students could develop skills for practice using a world café discussion exercise. These rich discussions will be captured in a report sent to all attendees. Thanks to all who took part and let’s keep the discussion going!
Useful Resources
There is a free 8 part training course (AI Law and Legal Training) from the Open University and others about which can be found here: https://www.open.edu/openlearncreate/course/index.php?categoryid=2150&_gl=1*1a7ey5r*_gcl_au*Mzk0MTA3MzY5LjE3NTgwMjgyOTI.
The QMUL sponsored, legal education and careers podcase, ReImagine Law has an episode titled: “A Law Students Guide to AI in Practice”. It can be found on any podcast platform or at this weblink: https://open.spotify.com/episode/56Ged7BfKfk3p0XQom2uN1