AI Agent Fundamentals

Published September 18, 2026Updated September 21, 2026

Free PDF guide, 2 pages

AI Agent Fundamentals explains what an AI agent is, the components it’s built from, and the choices that shape what it can do.

What’s inside

The 8 components of a simple AI agent, from model and instructions to controls and logging.
A worked example: an internal legal Q&A agent, described component by component.
The 2 design choices that set an agent’s reach: action-space and autonomy.
5 steps to configure an agent for a defined workflow.

Your request also includes the companion guide, AI Agent Risks.

General education only. This resource is not legal advice, a certification, or a compliance determination.

Enter your name and email. After your request is received, both guides will appear here right away.

Open or download either 2-page guide below.

Use this guide to define one agent’s job, inputs, outputs, tools, permissions, approvals, and monitoring.

Use this guide to check access, actions, autonomy, consequences, and where human approval should sit.

Check your inbox for one short follow-up. You are not subscribed to the newsletter.

General education only. These resources are not legal advice, a certification, or a compliance determination.

We couldn’t save your request. Please try again or email hello@ortaire.com.

How do you know an AI workflow is working?

AI Agent Risks

Check Your AI Readiness

Take ten questions to identify strengths and gaps in how your legal team adopts and governs AI.