Bob Kopka Discusses AI, Legal Billing, and the Future of Law on the Founding Partner Podcast
Bob Kopka, Founding Partner of Kopka Law Group, recently joined Jonathan Hawkins on The Founding Partner Podcast to discuss how artificial intelligence is changing the practice of law, the limitations of traditional billing models, and the importance of building a law firm positioned for long-term success.
In the episode, Beyond the Billable Hour, Bob explores a challenge facing law firms as AI becomes increasingly integrated into legal work. How can firms invest in technology that improves efficiency when traditional hourly billing may reward time spent rather than results delivered?
Rethinking the Billable Hour
As AI tools help attorneys analyze records, organize case information, and prepare for depositions, legal work can be completed more efficiently. Under traditional hourly billing, however, those efficiencies can reduce the time a firm bills for its work, making it more difficult to realize a return on its technology investments.
Bob believes the legal industry needs to reconsider how it measures value. Clients need clear communication, accurate evaluations, predictable costs, and a plan for resolving matters efficiently. Those priorities, he argues, are not necessarily reflected in a billing model based primarily on hours worked.
Kopka Law Group is addressing this challenge through its Partnership Plan, an alternative billing model that establishes a monthly fee for each open matter. The approach is designed to align the firm and its clients around defined matter timelines, performance benchmarks, and efficient resolutions. By moving away from billing solely by the hour, the model also creates an opportunity for the firm and its clients to benefit from efficiencies generated by technology.
Technology and the Importance of Human Judgment
Bob also discusses AI’s practical applications in litigation, including reviewing medical records, identifying relevant information, and supporting deposition preparation. While these tools offer significant potential, he emphasizes that technology does not replace the judgment attorneys bring to evaluating risk, developing strategy, and making decisions about a settlement or trial.
For Kopka Law Group, embracing innovation means identifying tools that help attorneys work more effectively while maintaining the professional judgment and client service that remain central to the practice of law.
Building a Firm for the Future
The conversation extends beyond technology to the principles that have shaped Bob’s approach to building Kopka Law Group. He reflects on the importance of clear client communication, developing the next generation of attorneys, and creating a culture in which people feel supported and have opportunities to grow.
Bob also discusses succession planning and his evolving role in the firm, including his continued focus on client relationships, attorney development, and preparing future leaders.
Throughout the interview, one theme remains consistent: successful law firms must be willing to challenge established practices and adapt to changing expectations while remaining grounded in the values that define their relationships with clients and colleagues.
