The role of legal operations is constantly shifting. What began as a focus on tactical efficiency has evolved into a strategic function that drives business value, manages complex ecosystems, and navigates rapid technological change. As legal departments begin navigating the 2026 business landscape, the pressure to innovate while managing costs and maintaining strong relationships is higher than ever.
In 2026, legal operations professionals are prioritizing three strategic pillars: redefining law firm relationships through data transparency, scaling artificial intelligence (AI) to handle administrative burdens, and evolving team roles to focus on high-value decision-making.
In the 33rd episode of the Legal Leaders Exchange podcast, ELM Solutions’ Jennifer McIver and Diana Flanders discuss these challenges. Drawing from candid conversations recorded at the Amplify 2025 conference, this episode explores the optimism, urgency, and strategic shifts defining the future of the industry.
How are law firm relationships changing in 2026?
The dynamic between corporate legal departments (CLDs) and outside counsel is undergoing a significant transformation. It is no longer enough to simply react to rate increases or enforce billing guidelines retroactively. Legal operations leaders are moving toward a more collaborative, data-driven model that emphasizes transparency and mutual value.
In the podcast, ELM Solutions’ Diana Flanders notes that strengthening partnerships involves more than just negotiation. It requires creating trust through shared data and benchmarking. By leveraging tools like LegalVIEW® DynamicInsights, CLDs can turn reactive discussions into proactive strategy sessions.
Client voices featured in the episode echo this sentiment. Some organizations are using technology to assess whether rate increases are reasonable based on market data, while others are taking a firm stance, such as freezing rates for firms that received increases in recent years. The consensus is clear: data transparency and a shared commitment to efficiency will define successful relationships.
How is AI being adopted in legal operations?
Artificial intelligence within legal technology is a reality that legal teams are actively integrating into their daily workflows. The conversation has shifted from "should we use AI?" to "how do we use AI effectively?"
The podcast highlights that one of the biggest initiatives for 2026 is the continued adoption and scaling of AI. However, this is not about replacing human expertise. Instead, legal professionals view AI as a "superpower" that allows them to shift focus from tactical, manual work to high-value strategic enablement.
Use cases are expanding rapidly. Clients discussed using AI to:
- Streamline invoice review processes, potentially reducing the need for manual line-by-line checks.
- Draft matter summaries and manage emails.
- Act as an assistant to cut down on administrative tasks, freeing up attorneys to focus on complex legal matters.
Innovation in 2026 requires a balance between adopting new tools and managing day-to-day workloads. As one podcast guest noted, seeing practical examples of AI in action is often the spark needed to drive adoption within their own teams.
How will legal team roles evolve in the near future?
As technology automates redundant tasks, the structure and priorities of legal teams are bound to change. The podcast explores predictions for the next five years, suggesting that legal operations will become even more integral to the business.
One key theme is the shift away from manual input toward automation and specialization. As AI takes over routine tasks like invoice review, legal professionals will need to pivot toward strategic oversight and decision-making. This evolution may change hiring practices, with a greater emphasis on candidates who can manage technology and drive process improvements.
However, this shift also brings challenges. Smaller teams, in particular, must prioritize carefully. With the definition of success constantly moving, legal ops leaders must decide which innovations will deliver the most impact within their specific budget and staffing constraints.
Listen to the full conversation
The future of legal operations is dynamic, innovative, and full of potential. In 2026, legal operations professionals are not just observing change—they are driving it. To hear more about these trends, including candid client perspectives and a lighthearted debate on which condiment best represents AI, listen to the full episode Legal ops unplugged: Voices from Amplify 2025.
