AI is already reshaping legal work, but not in the way most people expect. In this episode of Bite-Sized Business Law, we speak with Francisco Morales Barrón, an M&A partner at Vinson & Elkins and member of the firm’s AI Task Force, about how he is actively using AI in high-stakes dealmaking rather than simply theorizing about its future. The conversation begins with how Francisco responded to early caution within his firm by taking the lead on exploring AI while also teaching a law school course on generative AI in corporate law. He highlights how these tools allow lawyers to go deeper into their work, not just get things done faster, while reinforcing the need for careful human review. As the discussion unfolds, Francisco explores the broader implications for the legal profession. He shares his perspective on potential displacement of lawyers, as well as the surprising opportunities created by AI, before breaking down the pressure AI puts on traditional law firm economics and how firm structures may evolve. The episode also covers ethical duties, client expectations, and how to rethink training for young lawyers in the age of AI. Tune in for Francisco’s firsthand insights on how AI is changing M&A from the inside out!

Key Points From This Episode:

• An introduction to Francisco Morales Barrón and his work in AI and M&A.
• How Francisco joined his company’s AI task force and what his work entails.
• Their pilot program for different AI tools, and how they chose to fully deploy Harvey.
• Details on how Francisco is using AI tools for specific aspects of his work in M&A.
• The importance of human review despite improving AI capabilities.
• How AI enables deeper analysis across contracts and deal materials.
• Unpacking how AI could displace lawyers while also creating new opportunities.
• Shifting attitudes among law students and younger lawyers.
• Ongoing experimentation with AI tools and why firms remain in pilot mode.
• Ethical duties and client expectations when using AI in legal work.
• How AI challenges traditional billing models and law firm economics.
• Concerns about training junior lawyers in an AI-driven environment.
• Rethinking training: moving toward an apprenticeship model with more direct mentorship.
• Tasks likely to be automated versus skills that remain human-driven.
  
  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
  
  Francisco Morales Barrón on LinkedIn
  Harvey
  Opinion 512 | American Bar Association (ABA)
  Unreasonable Hospitality
  Fordham University School of Law Corporate Law Center