Toronto family lawyer, Ron Shulman, has noticed a trend where clients are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for legal assistance. Instead of relying on traditional communication methods, clients are using AI-generated messages to make decisions in their cases. While AI can be helpful in summarizing information, some clients are treating it as a “super intelligence,” leading to potential inaccuracies and increased legal costs.
The use of AI in legal matters is on the rise, with platforms like ChatGPT producing documents that are being submitted in courts across Canada and the United States. However, there have been instances where AI-generated content has led to legal repercussions, such as fabricated cases being included in court submissions.
Some individuals are even representing themselves in court with the help of AI, which can result in delays and added costs as parties navigate through AI-generated materials. Courts and professional bodies have started issuing guidelines on AI usage, with some requiring disclosure when AI has been utilized in legal documents.
While AI can be a valuable tool when used judiciously, improper use can lead to privacy concerns, communication breakdowns, and increased legal expenses. Lawyers like Ksenia Tchern McCallum have encountered clients who use AI to fact-check legal work, potentially undermining trust and creating client-relations issues.
Despite the potential benefits of AI in legal practice, there are risks associated with its use, such as referencing non-existent cases or inaccurate legal pathways. As AI becomes more prevalent in the legal field, responsible use and understanding of its limitations are essential to avoid legal pitfalls.
The National Self-Represented Litigants Project has been advocating for responsible AI use in legal matters, offering guidance on verifying AI-generated content, adhering to court guidelines, and staying within filing limits. While AI has the potential to enhance access to justice, its current use in legal proceedings is considered a “Wild West” due to reliability concerns.
Legal professionals emphasize that AI should complement legal judgment and ethical considerations, rather than replace them entirely. As AI continues to evolve, law firms are expected to integrate AI tools for competitive advantage while ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and maintaining the human touch in legal decision-making.