The debate around the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in our society has been as contentious as a court case with no final verdict. While some celebrate the capabilities of AI in automating tasks and efficiently processing vast amounts of data, others caution against the pitfalls of biased data, inaccuracies, and the potential downfall in terms of accountability.
In the realm of law, AI represents a paradox of threat and opportunity. There have been predictions of a severe reduction of human jobs due to the intrusion of AI technologies, indicators that the legal sector would perhaps face the most significant repercussions.
Nevertheless, AI also offers immense potential in legal research and case studies, despite previous instances of severe miscalculations. A notable example is when New York attorney Steven Schwartz faced a professional crisis after banking on AI system ChatGPT for a case’s historical precedents.
Interestingly, this mishap hasn’t deterred law firms in exploring AI’s potential. Ben Allgrove, chief innovation officer at international law firm Baker McKenzie, believes the blame lays not on the technology but on improper use.
Baker McKenzie itself has been closely monitoring AI developments since 2017, even establishing a dedicated team for testing upcoming market systems. Accustomed to using AI-powered versions of legal software providers such as LexisNexis and Microsoft’s 365 Solution for Legal, the firm is set to experience a revolution driven by generative AI.
Generative AI, which can create text, images, and music based on trained data, is the talk of the town. Yet, the costs for premium versions of these tools remains a stumbling block for many firms.
Alternatively, law firms could leverage less expensive AI systems not specifically designed for the legal industry, such as Google’s Bard, Meta’s Llama, and OpenAI’s ChatGPT, adapting them for their specific use.
Legal software firm RobinAI, for instance, uses an AI system to help expedite contract drafting and inquiries. Another firm, Grapple, led by employment lawyer Alex Monaco, promises to democratize the legal profession by enabling individuals to build their own legal cases using AI tools.
While AI doesn’t aim to replace humans or lawyers, it can certainly enhance the understanding and enforcement of legal rights for the common man. In an era where corporations are using AI for mass decisions affecting their employees, this could prove to be a game-changer.
However, this burgeoning use of AI in law isn’t without its legal quagmires. AI platform DoNotPay, touted as the world’s first robot lawyer, has been mired in multiple lawsuits. Additionally, in the wake of Schwartz’s foiled case, a few influential US judges now require lawyers to disclose AI usage in court filings.
The integration of AI into legal workings may only be in its infancy, yet it is certain that its imprint will shape the sector in profound ways. As this technological revolution unfurls, all eyes will be watching its tumultuous journey through the legal landscape.
