The Law Society of England and Wales has called on the government to clarify how AI can be used in legal services while protecting professional standards and public trust.
Responding to a request for evidence in relation to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)'s proposed AI Growth Lab, the Law Society said in a written statement that it looks forward to working with the Department if it establishes a “pioneering cross-economy sandbox” to oversee the rollout of AI-enabled products and services that are “currently hampered by regulation”.
However, the association emphasizes the importance of maintaining current legal profession regulations when using AI tools, including in pending legal activities.
“AI innovation is essential to the legal sector and already has significant momentum.” Law Society CEO Ian Jeffrey Said.
“The existing legal and regulatory framework supports progress. The main challenges are not due to regulatory burden, but rather the uncertainty, cost, data, and skills involved in implementing AI.
“Advances in technology in the legal field should not expose the following:”clientorConsumers are exposed to unregulated risks. Current regulations for this profession reflect the safeguards established by Congress.be consideredEssential to protect customers and the public.
“thatWe ensure confidence in the English and Welsh legal system around the world. ”
Two-thirds of lawyers are already using AI tools in their work, but there is widespread uncertainty around the exact requirements for data security, monitoring and liability, The Law Society said.
The association argued that lawyers should be provided with clear, practical guidance on existing rules, rather than changing or introducing new regulations.
The organization believes there needs to be clarity on issues such as the anonymization of client data added to AI platforms. Data security, storage and sharing. Whether lawyers must always supervise AI used in legal practice. How can AI be used in legal services? How lawyers can use AI to assist with legal activities such as conveyancing and probate. Who is responsible if AI gives incorrect or harmful advice?
“The Law Society strongly supports innovation as long as it maintains professional integrity and operates in a strong regulatory environment,” Mr Jeffrey said.
“Government needs to work with legal regulators and institutions to ensure compliance with professional standards in this area. Changes to legal regulations must include parliamentary oversight.”
