Source: Today's Family Lawyer

The Law Society of England and Wales has responded to the Civil Justice Council’s consultation on the use of artificial intelligence in preparing court documents by calling for a public consultation and a review of AI use across the justice system. It stresses that “the stakes are high when AI is used in court” and asks the Ministry of Justice to ensure AI is deployed responsibly across courts and tribunals. The Society requests the Solicitors Regulation Authority to issue clear guidance on how solicitors’ professional duties apply when AI assists in document preparation and to review the SRA code of conduct, and it urges HM Courts & Tribunals Service to introduce simple, accessible guidance on AI use in court proceedings.

While acknowledging significant benefits from AI—improvements in efficiency, reduced costs, fewer delays and enhanced access to justice—the Law Society warns that inaccurate outputs and “hallucinations” risk bias and unfair outcomes and highlights confidentiality and data‑protection concerns. It suggests introducing disclosure requirements to make clear when AI has been used, and calls for more clarity and support for solicitors overseeing AI tools. Chief executive Ian Jeffery advocates a balanced framework combining safeguards for accuracy and fairness, training, good governance and transparency, and the Society commits to working with the CJC, the courts, regulators and government to establish suitable guardrails and ensure AI is deployed for the public good.