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AI – risks and opportunities for the Legal Sector
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology into the legal profession presents both opportunities as well as risks. Legal professionals must be ready to navigate this evolving landscape in order to harness AI’s benefits while mitigating associated risks.
AI has limitless potential to improve access to legal advice, streamline the justice and court system and access to justice for consumers. CRL will continue to monitor the development of AI and the implications for the legal sector, particularly in relation to regulation.
What is ‘Artificial Intelligence’?
The definition of Ai is `The use of machines to replicate the problem solving and decision-making capabilities of the human mind’. Branches of AI include machine learning (adaptive), natural language processing, deep learning and generative AI.
AI differs from Lawtech which relates to the automation of processes, routines and systems (the business of law and related systems), whereas the application of AI relates to the more analytical practice of law.
Opportunities
- Enhanced efficiency – task automation, contract analysis and legal research.
- Research and case preparation – efficient data mining helps build stronger cases and helps the decision making process
- Cost reduction – reduced operational costs offers expansion opportunities for small businesses.
Potential risks
- Support role implications – some support roles could be displaced. Lawyers need to adapt to remain competitive.
- Ethical issues – the importance of data verification, transparency and accountability. Balancing human judgement with AI assistance is essential.
AI tools
A number of generative AI tools are available and gaining prominence. Our recent AI focused webinar Artificial Intelligence – Risks and Opportunities (15 July 2024), provided an overview of the implications of AI for regulation and for the Legal Sector as a whole. Also included a product demonstration of LexisNexis Nexis +AI* – please access the webinar recording.
CRL’s approach as a regulator
We will be looking to collaborate with other regulators within and outside of the sector to coordinate a joint regulatory response to AI. In the short-term at least, it is anticipated that regulation will continue very much in the same way as at present with firms and lawyers using AI as a tool and taking responsibility for decisions being made and actions taken (validation).
The lawyer will remain the person making the decisions and subject to regulation, either individually and/or as part of a firm. The level of regulation needs to be proportionate, and enable the use of the new technology. We will also be looking to:
- inform the CILEX community about the use and implications of AI
- consider how use of AI by students may be impacting on the education assessment process towards qualification and what appropriate control measures can be in put in place to maintain efficacy.
- review our standards, codes and guidance governing the use and application of AI. Consideration of training needs for employees both within firms and at CRL.
- consider how AI can be used effectively by CRL to improving the effectiveness and efficiency of our own regulation and business operation.
While AI presents opportunities for efficiency and innovation, careful consideration of ethical, professional, and societal implications is essential.
