Colin Tan, director of operations at TusPark UK, provided insights into the fast-evolving tech ecosystem, highlighting the advancements in AI from DeepMind to the more recent Transformer models, and discussing their potential implications for future innovation. He also shared valuable career advice, gained from over 20 years of enriching experiences living and working in the UK after moving from Singapore to pursue a PhD at the University of Cambridge.

Charles Sands,  a retired top City lawyer with extensive expertise in complex global corporate transactions, reflected on pivotal moments in his distinguished legal career and shared his recent experience “testing” AI tools. Drawing on his broad life experience, he reassured the vital and indispensable role of human input amid the rapid adoption of AI in the legal sector, underscoring that the integrity of lawyers has never been more important. 

Xiangdong Zhang, a visionary entrepreneur in the internet and consumer product sectors, recounted three thought-provoking stories that have provided him with enlightenment in both entrepreneurship and life.

Corporate partner David Ponsford at Teacher Stern spoke about the diverse career paths available to law students, encouraging them to think beyond conventional routes and embrace a broader perspective in their professional journeys.

During the AI and Law brainstorming sessions, led by Thornhill Legal senior associate Rhea Yu, guest speakers and student participants explored key questions and challenges confronting legal professionals in the context of rapid advancements in AI. The interactive and lively discussions covered a range of important topics, including the differences in AI regulation across major jurisdictions like China, the US and the EU; the ethical considerations and the risks of using AI tools; the transformative impact of AI technology on legal practice; and its implications for the training and development of junior lawyers.

Following the discussion, Thornhill Legal’s managing partner Yuhua Yang explained the inspiration for, and purpose of establishing Thornhill Academy.

“The rationale behind the launch of Thornhill Academy is to embrace a purpose that goes beyond commercial interests. It aims to foster meaningful contributions to the legal profession and society, while providing practical solutions to emerging critical issues that have a big impact on cross-border legal practices involving China,” said Yang.

“Thornhill Legal’s first vocational scheme will stem from the research project on AI and Law. Legal recruitment is a two-way process. By working together on this project, it provides an opportunity for us to get to know the potential candidates well and for them to assess whether Thornhill Legal is the right fit for their career development too. We look forward to embarking on this exciting project and, through it, connecting with like-minded future colleagues to grow and thrive together,” she said. 

Applications for the research project and the associated vocational scheme will be open imminently.  Students and graduates with an interest in the area of AI and law, and who are seeking career opportunities in the legal profession, are welcome to apply. 

More information on the requirements and timeline for the applications and the research project will be made available on the Thornhill Academy webpage in due course. Students who wish to participate should register their interest today to receive a notification as soon as the application portal opens. 

Key contact:
 

Yun Kriegler

Director of international markets, Thornhill Legal

Email: yun.kriegler@thornhill-legal.com