‘Game Changer, Not a Free Pass’: Melissa Weberman Talks AI’s Role in E-Discovery

Melissa Weberman, Arnold & Porter counsel and head of the eDiscovery & Data Analytics (eData) group, was featured in the Law360 article, “AI 'Game Changer' In E-Discovery, But Challenges Remain,” and The AmLaw Litigation Daily article, “ILTACON Takeaways From a Legal Tech Newbie (and Litigation Beat Vet).” Both articles covered the panel discussion at the 2025 International Legal Technology Association Conference on the impact of generative artificial intelligence in e-discovery.

While speaking on the panel, Weberman emphasized that, while generative AI is transforming legal practice, it does not change lawyers’ core ethical responsibilities. “Generative is a total game changer, but our obligations as lawyers don’t change,” she said. She also cautioned against using consumer-grade tools for legal research and noted that firms may need to explore task-based billing models as AI reshapes how legal services are delivered.

During a session on e-discovery and litigation support, Weberman also addressed the growing risks tied to the increasing use of generative AI tools, noting that now lawyers must review not only their own work but also that of others involved in a case. Given law firms’ frequent reliance on third parties, she advised that “we as lawyers need to be checking that work very carefully.”

Read the Law360 full article (subscription required).

Read The AmLaw Litigation Daily article (subscription required).