The April 2024 Futures Committee Report of the Law Society of Ontario provides comprehensive guidelines on the use of generative AI in legal practices. It emphasises the rapid evolution and integration of generative AI technologies, urging legal professionals to embrace these advancements while considering the ethical and professional implications. The report outlines the potential of generative AI to enhance legal service delivery through tasks like research, document drafting, and client interaction, but also highlights significant risks such as the spread of confidential information, biassed outputs, and the potential for AI-generated content to mislead.
The document underscores the need for legal practitioners to maintain their professional obligations, particularly in terms of competence, confidentiality, and diligence, and to remain vigilant about the AI tools they choose to use. It includes practical guidance for incorporating AI responsibly in legal work, recommending thorough vetting of AI products, continual learning about AI capabilities and limitations, and rigorous verification of AI-generated outputs.
Additionally, the report discusses the regulatory perspective, suggesting that legal professionals should anticipate and adapt to evolving legal standards concerning AI, including potential changes in law and practice directions from courts. This proactive approach is aimed at ensuring that the use of AI in legal contexts remains within ethical boundaries and contributes positively to the practice of law.
Read the full report here (PDF)