We all use it in some form whether it be Siri on iPhone, Gemini on Google, Microsoft CoPilot or ChatGPT, but what is it?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is technology that enable computers and machines to perform tasks that we typically associate with human minds which include learning, reasoning, and problem-solving. AI systems work by analysing data for correlation and patterns and use this information to make recommendations. They can also adapt their behaviour based on the effects of previous actions.
AI has significantly advanced in the last few years with many of us opting to use it instead of a search engine. The legal industry has also seen a significant increase in use with AI now being integrated into case management systems and legal research tools. LexisNexis launched its AI platform which can answer legal questions, generate documents and summarise legal issues.
The Law Society has also commented on the rapid development of AI technologies and how AI has introduced new possibilities and challenges for the legal sector. As the professional body for solicitors, they have provided a ‘strategy’ to support members in navigating the AI landscape. The Law Society has responded to the government’s white paper on artificial intelligence focussing on the roles the legal profession plays in the advancement of AI:
“We aim to make sure the legal profession is and remains an authoritative voice on AI that not only impacts the profession but also the UK economy”.
• continue to influence, lead and shape regulatory and policy positions on AI for the legal sector
• widen their resource offering to identify and address the risk, challenges and ethics of AI
• publish research on the impacts of AI specific to members and areas of law
The Legal profession can benefit enormously from the use of AI improving the efficiency of legal work. We may see a change in roles and shifts in their responsibilities. AI tools can be used to draft simple contracts, letters or carry out preliminary legal research and can help do all of this faster and more cost-effectively.
If AI could carry out the tasks traditionally performed by lawyers, could AI replace lawyers. What will be next – robot Lawyers or a LawGPT? Ultimately, analysing, reviewing, and advising clients will always require a human touch. Most AI responses cannot be relied on and come with a disclaimer to have it verified by a legal professional.
Regardless of the positive or negative impact, AI is raising questions that are reshaping the legal profession, and we will most certainly see many changes in the next few years.