Episode Details

In this episode of ADB Insights – The Legal Innovation Forum Podcast, Andrew Bowyer, Founder & CEO of the Legal Innovation Forum, sits down with Carla Swansburg, CEO of ClearyX, to explore how legal services are being transformed by artificial intelligence, alternative delivery models, and a growing demand for innovation across the legal industry. Drawing on a career that spans private practice, in-house leadership, legal technology, and alternative legal services, Carla shares her unique perspective on the evolution of legal work and the opportunities emerging for both law firms and corporate legal departments. She reflects on her journey into legal innovation and discusses how changing client expectations, technology adoption, and new business models continue to reshape the profession. The conversation examines the evolution of ClearyX, the independent alternative legal services provider owned by Cleary Gottlieb, and its expansion from technology-enabled legal services into AI-powered software development. Carla explains why the organization chose to build its own platform, the challenges many legal departments face in adopting technology, and how ClearyX is helping clients unlock greater value from their contracts, data, and legal operations. Andrew and Carla also explore the changing role of corporate legal departments in an increasingly complex business environment. From enterprise risk management and regulatory compliance to contract intelligence and operational efficiency, they discuss how legal teams can move beyond traditional service models and become more strategic contributors to business performance. The discussion concludes with a forward-looking look at the future of legal services, including the impact of AI on law firms, alternative legal service providers, and in-house teams. Carla shares her views on lawyer training, the evolution of the apprenticeship model, and why the most successful legal organizations will be those that embrace technology while continuing to develop the judgment and expertise that clients value most. For legal leaders navigating rapid technological change, this conversation offers practical insights into innovation, legal operations, and the future of the legal profession.