The firm said the initiative will embed structured AI capability across both its lawyers and business services teams, ensuring the technology is applied in line with professional standards. The programme, which will run across five cohorts of 100 participants starting in March 2026, represents the majority of the firm’s workforce of more than 700 people across its UK offices, including its Cardiff headquarters.
The move builds on a two-year relationship with The Dickson Poon School of Law at King’s College London. In 2024 and 2025, academic Dan Hunter delivered foundational AI education to Hugh James staff, establishing a baseline understanding of emerging AI technologies. The new course marks the next phase of that partnership, offering deeper, role-specific training on the use of AI in legal practice, alongside guidance on governance, risk and regulatory considerations.
Rupert Poole, chief technology officer at Hugh James, said the initiative would 'further strengthen our firm-wide AI capability' and equip staff with the judgement and practical skills to use generative AI responsibly while enhancing client service. Matthew Tossell, senior partner lead on AI integration, described AI capability as both a leadership and operational priority for the firm. Professor Dan Hunter, executive dean of The Dickson Poon School of Law, welcomed the collaboration, saying AI is now 'fundamental' to the next generation of lawyers and that equipping firms with the right skills would help the profession meet the challenges and opportunities the technology presents.
