Exploring The Perceptions of Legal Professionals on The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Contract Drafting

Jinying You; Rudina S. Abarientos

doi:10.54097/2c7q7z49

Authors

Jinying You
Rudina S. Abarientos

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/2c7q7z49

Keywords:

Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Contract Drafting, Legal Practitioners, Irreplaceability

Abstract

To investigate legal practitioners' acceptance, application effectiveness, and substitution potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in contract drafting, this study employs quantitative research methods centered on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), integrated with theories such as legal tech convergence. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 50 junior lawyers, mid-level lawyers, and paralegals in Beijing with over three instances of AI tool usage experience. Data statistics and analysis were completed using analytical tools. Results indicate no significant differences in overall AI tool acceptance across different legal positions. While practitioners generally embrace AI tools and acknowledge their ease of use, trust in these tools remains notably lower than perceived usability. AI tools demonstrated distinct advantages in enhancing contract drafting efficiency and reducing paper consumption. However, they exhibited notable shortcomings in clause accuracy and scenario applicability. Generated contracts still require manual review, and respondents believed AI-generated contracts cannot be directly used. Respondents generally agreed that current AI tools cannot fully replace traditional manual drafting methods, as lawyers' professional judgment in risk identification and clause customization remains irreplaceable. Regression analysis confirmed the significant positive impact of perceived usability on perceived usefulness, with substitution attitudes positively correlated with usage attitudes. This research provides data support for optimizing legal tech products, formulating industry policies, and transforming lawyers' work models. It also highlights limitations such as sample size constraints and geographic concentration, suggesting future studies should expand their scope and incorporate qualitative research to enhance the universality of conclusion.

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