Innovating Without Overwhelm: Practical AI Tips for Lawyers, with Graydon Trusler

In episode 590 of Lawyerist Podcast, learn how practical, everyday AI can help lawyers work smarter—not harder. Zack Glaser sits down with Graydon Trusler, a practical AI specialist and longtime law-firm operations pro, to explore how attorneys can use “productive laziness” to eliminate repetitive tasks, streamline case management, and reclaim valuable time. Graydon shares real examples from his family law firm, including how custom AI assistants help review discovery, prep hearings, analyze documents, and even support lawyers in the courtroom. Together, they break down privacy concerns, adoption hurdles, and simple ways to start using AI without getting overwhelmed. Discover why AI isn’t a distant future—it’s a powerful tool lawyers can start using today to improve workflows, reduce stress, and deliver better results for clients. Links from the episode:  LexpertAI Listen to our previous episodes about Practical AI & Law Firm Efficiency: Episode #562: Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell — Apple | Spotify | LTN Episode #565: Becoming the AI-Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods — Apple | Spotify | LTN Episode #577: Rethinking Law Firm Growth in the Age of AI, with Sam Harden — Apple | Spotify | LTN Episode #584: How to Stay Human in the Age of AI-Driven Law Firm Marketing, with Karin Conroy — Apple | Spotify | LTN Have thoughts about today’s episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X! If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you. Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com. Chapters / Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 08:45 – Meet Graydon 11:10 – Practical AI in Law Firms 16:40 – Myths, Fears & Privacy 19:00 – Real AI Workflows 23:00 – Productive Laziness 31:00 – AI in the Courtroom 34:45 – Faster Discovery & SOPs 38:50 – Flat Fees & the Future 45:13 – Closing Thoughts