Duquesne Law: Real-World AI Curriculum Shaped By Firm Visits

• Duquesne University's Thomas R. Kline School of Law is integrating real-world AI use into its curriculum.
• The law school's faculty and staff are visiting various law firms to observe day-to-day AI applications.
• These firm visits, which began last year, include discussions with major firms like Jones Day and Reed Smith, as well as boutique practices.
• The initiative builds upon the "AI and Law Collaboration program" launched by the university approximately one year prior to September 1, 2026.
• Dean April Barton stated that the visits emphasize the necessity for new lawyers to become proficient with legal AI tools.

Dean April Barton of Duquesne Law emphasized the critical importance of these firm visits, noting that they highlight a clear need for both new and incoming legal professionals to develop comfort and proficiency with legal AI tools.

The Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University, known as Duquesne Law, is actively shaping its curriculum by directly engaging with legal practitioners to understand the practical applications of artificial intelligence. This initiative builds upon the foundation of its "AI and Law Collaboration program," which was launched approximately one year prior to September 1, 2026. The law school's faculty and staff have undertaken visits to various law firms, observing how this rapidly evolving technology is integrated into their daily operations.

These engagements are designed to provide firsthand insights into the current state of legal AI use. Last year, Duquesne Law representatives held discussions with attorneys and firms, including prominent national entities such as Jones Day and Reed Smith, as well as regional firms like Babst, Calland, Clements and Zomnir. Local boutique practices, specifically Perry Calder Law, JonesPassodelis, and Robert Peirce & Associates, were also part of these crucial conversations. The primary objective was to explore the profound ways artificial intelligence is transforming the legal profession. Further meetings are already scheduled, indicating a sustained commitment to this real-world research.

The proactive approach by Duquesne Law underscores a strategic effort in law school AI curriculum development, aiming to ensure its graduates are prepared for the demands of modern legal practice. By directly observing and discussing AI implementation with leading firms, the Thomas R. Kline School of Law AI program is designed to reflect the actual tools and methodologies that new lawyers will encounter. This hands-on research informs how the university will integrate advanced legal tech into its educational offerings.

Dean April Barton of Duquesne Law emphasized the critical importance of these firm visits, noting that they highlight a clear need for both new and incoming legal professionals to develop comfort and proficiency with legal AI tools. This focus on practical application ensures that the Duquesne Law real-world AI curriculum remains relevant and forward-thinking. The ongoing dialogue with the legal industry positions the institution at the forefront of preparing students for the future of legal practice AI skills.

The commitment shown by Duquesne University in integrating real-world AI insights into its legal education signals a significant shift in the competencies expected of future legal talent. This dedication to understanding and incorporating legal tech integration in law schools means that graduates will increasingly enter the profession equipped with practical AI literacy. Such developments necessitate that current legal professionals and compliance officers evaluate their own understanding and adoption strategies for AI within their firms.

As law schools like Duquesne adapt their programs to reflect technological advancements, the broader legal community must also evolve. The insights gathered from firms like Jones Day and Reed Smith directly inform how academic institutions are preparing the next generation of lawyers, making AI proficiency a foundational skill. This trend suggests that maintaining competitiveness in the legal field will increasingly depend on effectively leveraging emerging legal technologies and ensuring a workforce adept in their application.

This development indicates that future legal talent will be increasingly proficient in AI tools, prompting current lawyers and compliance officers to assess their own AI literacy and firm-wide adoption strategies to maintain competitiveness and effectively leverage emerging legal technologies.

Source: Original reporting via Law.com