How Attorneys Are Being Trained to Use A.I.
Hear from fellow members who are already rolled out and are
using A.I. day-to-day. What are they training attorneys on, and how?
Attorneys are being trained to use artificial intelligence (AI) through a combination of law school curriculum changes, law firm internal training, and specialized third-parts, hands-on workshops, with a primary focus on ethical, safe, and effective adoption. Training is shifting from purely conceptual understanding to practical, "learning by doing" approaches that emphasize verification of AI output, prompt engineering, and maintaining human control over legal reasoning.
Connect and chat with industry peers during our "Social Time" from 9:00 - 9:30 am ET and attend the event from 9:30 am - 11:00 am ET.
Moderator -
Dan Earley - Digital Learning Specialist at Paul Hastings.
Dan is the President of PLTG and brings more than 30 years of experience in the technology field. His career began with a start-up company and a consulting firm, laying a strong foundation for a diverse and evolving technology journey. Dan’s legal technology experience started at Morrison & Foerster and continues through his current work with Paul Hastings.
Throughout his career, Dan has held numerous roles across IT and Talent Management, consistently serving as a vital liaison between technology teams and the business. In his current role as a Digital Learning Specialist, he consults internally on learning and development initiatives, delivers live presentations, and creates engaging digital content to support organizational growth.
Dan has developed and delivered webinars, designed educational programs, and contributed to the editing of e learning and legal technology publications. He is deeply passionate about helping others understand and adapt to technology that enhances their daily work and aligns with broader business goals. Dan has also been an active leader within PLTG, previously serving as Co Vice President of Membership and Co Vice President/Secretary on the board.
Panelists -
Nelson Valdez is the Technology Education Manager at Perkins Coie.
Nelson Valdez is the President of PLTG and the Technology Education Manager at Perkins Coie LLP. In his role, he is responsible for the development and execution of the firm’s technology education strategy. With 20 years of experience in supporting the learning and development needs of Big Law firms,
Nelson is a seasoned professional who is solution-focused and values relationships that foster mutual growth. Nelson is also at the forefront of supporting the training of attorneys and business professionals in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies at Perkins Coie LLP. He facilitates the adoption and effective use of AI tools such as Copilot and a private ChatGPT-powered tool, ensuring that the firm's personnel are well-equipped to leverage these technologies for enhanced efficiency and innovation in legal services. His dedication to continuous improvement and his commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset to Perkins Coie LLP and the broader professional community.
Sandra Craft is a Technology Education Specialist at Perkins Coie.
Sandra is celebrating 30 years at Perkins Coie starting in Corporate and Securities, and currently in the Technology department. She develops and delivers Technology and AI training for attorneys and business professional. Sandra hosts the firm's monthly AI meet-up for business professionals where participants receive demonstrations, conduct hands-on activities, and share expertise and the latest news.
Timothy Zgraggen is a Training and Projects Coordinator at Linklaters.
Philip Pelletier, Technology Training Manager, WilmerHale LLP.
Phil Pelletier is the IS Technology Training Manager at WilmerHale, where he leads a team of 10 professionals focused on change management and helping lawyers and staff get the most out of firm technology. Prior to becoming training manger, his roles at WilmerHale have included Technology Trainer and Instructional Designer. He has spent his entire 25 year career in learning and development, including teaching English abroad, designing computer-assisted language learning programs, and developing a school reform model for underperforming public schools at a non-profit organization.
