AI-driven layoffs have started at Baker McKenzie, according to India Today – “Law firm lays off hundreds of employees as AI takes on more tasks.” The firm is cutting support roles across offices such as London and Belfast after a review of business functions and AI use.
- What changed With AI-driven layoffs at Baker McKenzie
- Business services staff layoffs spread across multiple teams
- Why AI-driven layoffs are tied to new work systems
- AI-driven layoffs reflect changes across the legal sector
- Wider impact of AI-driven layoffs beyond law firms
- What comes next for affected staff
What changed With AI-driven layoffs at Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie has begun reducing its worldwide support workforce. Bloomberg reported that the cuts affect several locations, including offshore centres.
Sources estimate that less than 10 percent of support staff may lose roles. That equals roughly 600 to 1,000 employees.
Business services staff layoffs spread across multiple teams
The business services staff layoffs are not limited to one department. Reports say roles in research, know-how, marketing, and secretarial work have been impacted.
The firm described the move as part of a wider restructuring plan. It said the goal is to stay agile as work processes change.
Why AI-driven layoffs are tied to new work systems
Baker McKenzie said it reviewed how routine tasks are handled. AI tools now complete some work faster and at lower cost.
Because of this shift, some roles are being reduced while others may evolve toward direct client support.
AI-driven layoffs reflect changes across the legal sector
Other law firms have taken similar steps in recent months. Clifford Chance cut about 10 percent of its UK business services workforce.
Irwin Mitchell removed litigation paralegal roles. Freshfields also cited AI when it laid off paralegals last year.
Wider impact of AI-driven layoffs beyond law firms
The pattern is also visible in the technology sector. Amazon recently laid off around 16,000 employees while simplifying teams.
Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei said in January 2026 that AI could replace many coding tasks within six to twelve months.
What comes next for affected staff
Baker McKenzie indicated that restructuring is still ongoing. Some roles may disappear, while others may shift as AI becomes embedded in daily operations.
The firm said it will support affected staff through the transition process.
