Industry News and Plakas Mannos Law Firm Updates

Why You Still Need a Business Lawyer in the Age of AI

Written by Plakas Mannos | Oct 1, 2025 4:29:05 PM

In recent months, AI tools have become increasingly popular for generating legal content, with the thought being, “if AI can do it, why should I pay a lawyer?” However, when it comes to protecting your business, AI (and legal DIY through AI) is no substitute for an experienced business lawyer or corporate lawyer who understands your goals, your risks, and—critically—the nuances of Ohio and federal law.  This understanding is absolutely critical to the efficacy and enforceability of your legal documents, and ultimately, the success of your business.     

Unfortunately, we have seen a surge in small businesses and even larger companies trying to cut corners and practice do-it-yourself law with AI for legal documents, only to end up in costly disputes that could have been avoided with proper legal guidance. Here’s a brief summary of why real legal insight still matters:

1. Corporate Documents Require Strategic Precision

From shareholder agreements to operating agreements and bylaws, corporate documents need more than fill-in-the-blank templates. A good lawyer doesn’t just draft—he or she tailors to the client’s specific needs and goals. AI can’t strategize for long-term ownership goals, succession planning, or investor protections. We can.  

2. Enforceable Employment Agreements and Restrictive Covenants Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All, and Often Require Specific Language that the AI Doesn’t Know or Understand

Ohio courts scrutinize non-competes, non-solicits, and confidentiality clauses carefully—and enforcement often depends on specific language and context. AI won’t know if your provision is too broad, too vague, or simply unenforceable in an Ohio court, or due to the nature of your business. A seasoned business lawyer from Plakas Mannos will.

3. Releases and Waivers Must Be Airtight and Contain Statutorily Required Language

Generic releases generated by AI often fail to protect employers or business owners by failing to meet legal requirements. An effective release requires not just the right legal language, but a clear understanding of what rights are being waived, under what law, and in what context. One wrong word and your “protection” disappears.  We know this.

4. Ohio Law Has a Million Nuances—and So Do Ohio Judges

AI can’t replace the value of experience in a particular jurisdiction, with a particular Court, or in a particular industry. Our team of experienced corporate lawyers and business attorneys understands not only the black letter law, but also how courts across Ohio have interpreted and applied it. That matters in every contract we draft. When you hire us, you get that benefit  

Our Corporate and Business Law team—Gary Corroto, Dave Dingwell, and Hunter Miller—brings decades of combined experience advising businesses across industries. Whether you're forming a company, hiring key employees, or navigating risk, we provide comprehensive and real-life legal insight AI simply can't offer. 

AI may be evolving—but when it comes to legal protection, real-life experience still wins.  Don’t bet your company on DIY law- call the experts and get legal advice tailored to you and your business.

Meet our Business Law Team at Plakas Mannos

James Mannos focuses on real estate transactionsestate and probate mattersfamily law, and Claimant-side workers’ compensation matters. David Dingwell is a partner at Plakas Mannos who has helped hundreds of Ohio families strategize and implement their wealth and estate planning goals. Gary Corroto is an attorney and partner for Plakas Mannos, practicing law in various areas, including commercial litigation, energy, oil and gas, and more. Hunter Miller is an associate attorney focusing on commercial litigation, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property litigation, and other practice areas.