This eLearning course provides comprehensive training on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) within law firms and the legal profession. AI tools are increasingly being adopted in legal practice for tasks such as legal research, document review, contract analysis, and client communications. While these tools offer significant efficiency gains, they also present risks that legal professionals must understand and manage. The SRA expects solicitors to use technology competently and responsibly.
The course begins by explaining the types of AI tools relevant to legal practice, including generative AI, large language models, and specialist legal AI platforms. It covers the potential benefits of AI, including faster research, improved document analysis, and enhanced client service, while addressing the significant risks including the potential for AI to generate inaccurate or fabricated information (hallucinations), the risk of bias in AI outputs, and the danger of over-reliance on AI-generated content without proper verification.
The training addresses the regulatory and professional obligations that arise when using AI in legal practice, including the SRA's expectations around competence, the duty to supervise AI-generated work, and the obligations around confidentiality and data protection when inputting client information into AI systems. It covers the specific risks around using AI for client-facing work, including the potential for AI-generated advice to be incorrect or incomplete, and the importance of always applying professional judgement.
Practical guidance is provided on using AI responsibly, including the importance of validating AI outputs against authoritative sources, maintaining clear documentation of when and how AI has been used, being transparent with clients about the role of AI in the provision of legal services, and ensuring that the use of AI does not compromise the solicitor's professional duties. The course also addresses the emerging regulatory landscape and likely future developments. Upon completion, legal professionals will understand the risks and opportunities of AI, their regulatory obligations, and how to use AI tools responsibly in their practice.
