HOW YOUR LAWYER SHOULD AND SHOULDN'T USE AI

How Your Lawyer Should, and Shouldn’t, Use AI

Artificial Intelligence is changing nearly every profession, and the legal field is no exception. Many lawyers are now using AI tools to help with research, contract review, and drafting legal documents. That can be a good thing, saving time and reducing client costs.

But here’s the part you need to know: AI isn’t magic or perfect.

AI can make mistakes. Sometimes it “hallucinates”, meaning it invents facts or legal cases that don’t exist. Sometimes it misreads the law. Sometimes, it overlooks essential details that an experienced lawyer would catch instantly.

That’s why you, as the client, should make sure your lawyer follows two basic rules:

1. They Tell You When They’re Using AI

You have the right to know if AI is being used in your case. Many states will soon require lawyers to tell clients up front. Even if the rules don’t require it yet, you should ask.

Questions to ask your lawyer:

• “Will you be using AI on my case?”
• “If so, what for?”
• “Will I see the AI’s work product?”

2. They Check AI’s Work

No AI output should be used without being carefully reviewed by a lawyer who understands your type of case. Your lawyer should double-check every citation, every fact, and every conclusion before relying on it.

Questions to ask your lawyer:

• “How do you verify the information AI gives you?”
• “Who in your firm reviews AI-assisted work?”

Why This Matters for You

The main benefit of AI is speed. It can make document review and research much faster. That can mean lower legal bills. But if AI’s mistakes slip through, it can cost you much more. in lost cases, bad contracts, or legal exposure.

AI should be a tool to help your lawyer do their job better, not a shortcut to avoid doing it. The best lawyers will be the ones who know how to use AI responsibly and who keep you informed every step of the way.

Client Checklist: Questions to Ask Before Your Lawyer Uses AI

About AI Use:

• Will you be using AI for my case?
• What tasks will AI handle?
• Will I be told every time AI is used?

About Oversight:

• Who reviews AI’s work in your firm?
• How do you verify AI’s facts and citations?
• What safeguards are in place to catch AI errors?

About Costs and Benefits:

• Will using AI reduce my legal bill?
• Could using AI in my case create any risks?

Bottom line: You’re not hiring a computer; you’re hiring a lawyer. Ensure the lawyer stays in control, uses AI wisely, and keeps you in the loop.

William James Spriggs