Episode 011 From Dabbling to Deployment: How Lawyers Actually Use AI

There comes a moment for every lawyer using AI when experimentation turns into real-world application. That’s where the real opportunities begin.

Ron and Heather talk to Colorado bankruptcy attorney Matt McCune, a 25-year practitioner who isn’t just talking about AI—he’s rebuilding his law practice around it.

Matt shares how AI is transforming the entire structure of a law firm and why the lawyers who embrace it thoughtfully will define the next generation of legal service.

Along the way, the conversation explores the tension between scale and responsibility, the importance of human oversight, and how AI can elevate—not replace—legal judgment.

Key Takeaways

1. AI as a Force Multiplier (Not Just a Time Saver)

AI isn’t just about speed—it’s about removing friction from everything surrounding the practice of law.

• Automating intake, communication, and SOPs

• Reducing repetitive client interactions

• Freeing lawyers to focus on judgment and strategy

“90% of what I do isn’t the practice of law—it’s running a business.” 

2. Human-in-the-Loop Is Non-Negotiable

AI works—but only with oversight.

• Systems can glitch

• Workflows need validation and fallback checks

• Lawyers remain responsible for outcomes

3. AI Improves Client Experience (Where Lawyers Struggle Most)

The biggest complaint in legal services? Communication.

AI enables:

• Instant responses

• Automated updates (e.g., objections, case status)

• Pre-recorded or AI-generated client prep (e.g., 341 meetings)

4. Real-World Workflow Example: Client Prep Automation

Matt uses tools like HeyGen to:

• Deliver automated video explanations to clients

• Prepare them for key moments (like 341 hearings)

• Replace repetitive phone calls

Result: better-prepared clients and less time spent repeating the same explanations.

The FSJ Framework: How Lawyers Actually Adopt AI

This episode naturally walks through the full Flintstones → Simpsons → Jetsons progression:

🪨 Flintstones Lawyer

• Start simple: download an AI app

• Use voice mode while driving

• Treat it like a conversation with a colleague

🍩 Simpsons Lawyer

• Move from dabbling to building small assets

• Example: create a simple landing page using AI tools

• Begin experimenting with workflows

🚀 Jetsons Lawyer

• Build integrated systems

• Use closed AI environments for client data

• Automate document analysis and workflows

Practice Signal: Client Communication Breakdown

A real-world scenario highlights a common issue:

• Anxious clients

• Delayed responses

• Escalation to third parties

AI Solutions:

• Instant acknowledgment emails

• Automated status updates

• Tone-optimized responses

• Ethical analysis before responding

This is where AI shines—not in legal brilliance, but in consistent, empathetic communication at scale.

What’s Next

Matt McCune will be presenting at an upcoming National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys webinar “Stop Dabbling, Start Deploying” a two-part series focused on real-world implementation

Resources Mentioned

• Matt McCune Substack BankruptcyAttorney.ai

• AI video tools -HeyGen

• Crossing the Chasm