Caryn Sandler Drives Legal Innovation at Gilbert + Tobin
Luisa Crawford Jun 25, 2026 00:42
Caryn Sandler's work at Gilbert + Tobin integrates AI, technology, and legal expertise to redefine service delivery in the legal industry.
Caryn Sandler, Partner and Chief Knowledge and Innovation Officer at Australian law firm Gilbert + Tobin (G+T), is reshaping how legal services are delivered. Her focus on integrating generative AI, advanced technology, and innovative workflows has positioned the firm as a leader in legal innovation, earning them the title of 'Most Innovative Law Firm in Asia-Pacific' at the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Awards in both 2024 and 2025.
Since joining G+T in 2010, Sandler has built a multidisciplinary team of over 60 professionals under the G+T Innovate banner. This unit combines expertise in AI, legal project management, and knowledge systems to tackle inefficiencies and create new value for clients. One standout result of her leadership has been the development of proprietary verification software, which was later sold to Litera in 2020. Sandler has also spearheaded the firm’s AI adoption strategy, which has become a critical focus for G+T as the legal industry increasingly experiments with generative AI tools.
"Innovation is not about adopting technology for its own sake," Sandler explained in a recent blog post. "It is about creating better solutions to real problems—whether that means improving client experience, helping lawyers work more effectively, or unlocking new ways of delivering value." Sandler emphasizes that responsible innovation requires strong governance and trust, especially in a legal context where risks can be high.
Beyond her role at G+T, Sandler’s personal contributions to the legal tech sector have earned her multiple accolades. She was named Innovator of the Year at the Australian Law Awards in 2022 and is ranked Band 1 for Legal Transformation Consulting in the Chambers NewLaw Guide 2024–2025. She was also recently recognized as one of five 'Influential Legal Tech Leaders' in April 2026.
Under Sandler’s leadership, G+T has also become a vocal advocate for responsible AI integration. In a July 2025 public statement, the firm highlighted generative AI’s potential to revolutionize legal workflows, from contract analysis to due diligence, while cautioning that adoption must include robust safeguards. Sandler has been at the forefront of these discussions, pushing for AI solutions that prioritize transparency, security, and ethical considerations.
Gilbert + Tobin’s success under Sandler’s guidance underscores a broader trend in the legal industry: the growing role of technology in driving efficiency and competitive advantage. With firms worldwide racing to integrate AI and other digital tools, leaders like Sandler are setting the benchmark for meaningful and sustainable innovation.
Looking ahead, Sandler’s work with G+T Innovate will likely continue to attract attention, especially as the firm builds on its award-winning track record and explores new AI applications. For the legal sector, her approach could serve as a blueprint for navigating the complexities of technology adoption while delivering measurable value.
Image source: Shutterstock.jpg)
