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26/07/2025 - Zimbabwean Lawyer Apologizes for Using AI-Generated Fake Case Law (Zimbabwe)

argument: Notizie/News - Civil Procedure Law

Source: Pindula News

Pindula News reports that Welshman Ncube, a prominent Zimbabwean lawyer, publicly apologized after submitting AI-generated fake case law during a Supreme Court appeal. The incident occurred in July 2025 and quickly drew attention from both the legal profession and the public, raising significant concerns about the reliability of AI tools in legal practice. Ncube admitted the error, explaining that the use of artificial intelligence in legal research inadvertently led to referencing cases that do not exist.

He expressed deep regret and emphasized the need for lawyers to verify all information provided by AI before submission to courts. The Zimbabwean legal community has since debated the responsibilities of practitioners when using AI-generated content, with calls for stricter guidelines and ethical oversight. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the limitations and risks of AI in the justice system, highlighting the importance of human judgment and professional diligence. The Supreme Court has yet to announce any formal consequences for Ncube.