5 Essential Questions to Ask During a Job Interview as a Lawyer
The legal sector is evolving rapidly. Digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) are playing an increasingly significant role in how lawyers and paralegals work. This means that during a job interview, you should not only focus on the position itself but also on how technology—especially AI—will impact your future work.
Here are five smart questions you can ask as a candidate to land your dream job!
1. What does a typical workday look like in this role, and which tools are used?
Beyond the traditional tasks of a lawyer, it’s important to understand which technologies and AI solutions are being used within the firm or department. Think of contract analysis software, AI-driven legal research tools, or compliance process automation. This will help you assess how efficiently the team operates and whether your digital skills align with their needs. Additionally, it provides a realistic view of your daily responsibilities, allowing you to determine if the role matches your expectations and expertise.
2. How does AI influence legal practice within this company?
Many legal teams are experimenting with AI for contract review, legal research, and even dispute resolution. By asking this question, you gain insight into how innovative the company is and whether it invests in the future of legal tech. Are you joining a firm that embraces AI, or is everything still done the ‘old-fashioned’ way? What interests you, and how ready are you for these new technologies?
3. What challenges does AI present for this role, and what are the biggest challenges the team currently faces?
AI is transforming the legal world, but it also brings risks and ethical concerns. For example, how does the company handle data privacy, bias in AI systems, and the reliability of legal AI tools? This question demonstrates that you think ahead—not just about efficiency but also about legal integrity. It also shows that you have strategic insight, contribute ideas, and think about the bigger picture. Furthermore, it helps you understand the challenges you might need to tackle if you join the team.
4. How does collaboration within the legal team work, and what role does technology play in it?
Collaboration remains essential in the legal sector. Do teams use digital collaboration tools extensively? Is hybrid or remote work common? How is AI leveraged to improve efficiency? This gives you insights into the company’s work culture and how technology influences team dynamics. For lawyers, a strong team dynamic and professional culture are crucial. By asking this question, you also get a sense of the workplace environment and the organization’s values.
5. How is success in this role measured?
A clear definition of success helps you understand what results are expected from you. This gives you a good idea of the performance standards and growth opportunities within the company.
CONCLUSION
AI and technology are transforming the legal sector. By asking targeted questions during your interview, you can not only assess whether the role and company suit you but also whether they are prepared for the future. Make sure you choose not just a job for now, but a place where you can grow as a lawyer in a digital world. Asking the right questions not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if this role and organization are the right fit for you.
So don’t be afraid to dig deeper—turn your job interview into a real dialogue.
Good luck with your job interview!
