AI in Law: Changing How Legal Judgments Are Made in England and Wales
Published on: March 10, 2024
In a significant development within England's ancient legal system, judges in England and Wales have been granted permission to use artificial intelligence (AI) in crafting legal opinions. This move marks a cautious yet notable embrace of technology in legal proceedings.
The guidance issued by the judiciary highlights that while judges can utilize AI tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT for basic work tasks, they must refrain from using such technology for conducting legal research or analysis. This is due to concerns that AI might generate misleading, fabricated, or biased information.
Master of the Rolls Geoffrey Vos, the second-highest-ranking judge in England and Wales, emphasized the potential of AI to offer great opportunities for the justice system. However, he also noted the importance of ensuring that judges understand the capabilities and limitations of AI. Judges are expected to distinguish between genuine legal arguments and those prepared using AI, including the potential use of deepfakes as evidence.
The guidance sets a restrained approach for the legal community as it contemplates the future role of AI. It aims to strike a balance between embracing technological advancements and maintaining the integrity and trust in the legal process. The document advises caution, particularly regarding information derived from the internet and potential pitfalls in legal contexts.
This development in England and Wales is part of a broader global conversation about the role of AI in legal systems. While the guidance marks a step forward in adapting to technological changes, it also serves as a reminder of the need for careful consideration and responsibility in the judicial use of AI.