Episode #330
330: Why Claude Gets Dumber—and How Lawyers Can Use AI Better
In this episode, Ernie Svenson talks with Docket Drafter co-founder Tommy Eberle about what lawyers need to understand to use AI tools like Claude more effectively. They unpack why Word documents consume so many tokens, why AI performance can decline during long chats, how context windows and compaction affect results, and when to use different Claude models and thinking levels. Tommy also explains how lawyers can use AI to organize files, automate repetitive document work, and build more efficient workflows—without needing to become programmers themselves. Chapters 0:05 Why AI Frustrations Make Sense 3:03 From Coding To Legal AI 8:05 Making Word Agent-Friendly 16:20 Why Claude Gets Dumber 26:21 Models, Thinking, And Compaction 34:33 Files, Folders, And Better Prompting Show Notes The 80/20 Principle (my techlaw newsletter) The Inner Circle (my online community for lawyers) Tommy Eberle's LinkedIn page Tommy's Email Address: tommy@docketdrafter.com Docket Drafter https://www.youtube.com/@DocketDrafter Follow and Review I'd appreciate it if you could drop a review over on Apple Podcasts . It only takes a few seconds and helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks to the sponsor: Smith.ai Smith.ai is an amazing virtual receptionist service that specializes in working with solo and small law firms. When you hire Smith.ai, you're hiring well-trained, friendly receptionists who can respond to callers in English or Spanish. And they have a special offer for podcast listeners where you can get an extra $100 discount with promo code ERNIE100. Sign up for a risk-free start with a 14-day money-back guarantee now (and learn more) at smith.ai .
