The traditional path to law firm partnership before 40 is facing competition from a new route: legal-tech start-ups. Companies like Harvey and Legora, valued at $11bn and $5.5bn respectively as of March 2026, are actively recruiting lawyers with equity packages. These roles involve developing AI technology, advising on strategy, and bridging relationships with law firms and corporate legal departments.

Lawyers bring credibility for investors and board-level business contacts, along with deep legal expertise that AI companies need. April Miller Boise, outgoing CLO at Intel, says AI platforms require people who truly understand what lawyers do that adds value daily. One of the most advanced law firms using AI recently lost several lawyers to an AI business. While salary isn't the main draw given already high律师 compensation, the equity upside from an acquisition or flotation can be substantial.

Farrah Pepper left Marsh McLennan after more than two decades to join Harvey as a legal innovation partner, drawn by the opportunity to shape the future of law for the entire profession. Alex Fortescue-Webb departed Ashurst for Legora last year, now leading about 70 legal engineers—roughly 90% former lawyers—with salaries exceeding $300,000 plus equity and bonuses. Industry observers say law firms will need to work harder to retain talent as AI expertise becomes increasingly valuable.