The Law Society of England Wales has asked the government to clarify how AI can be used in legal services while upholding professional standards and public trust.
Writing in response to a call for evidence from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) in relation to its proposed AI Growth Lab, The Law Society said it is looking forward to working with the department if it establishes “a pioneering cross-economy sandbox” to oversee the deployment of AI-enabled products and services the DSIT says are “currently hindered by regulation”.
But the society has emphasised the importance of maintaining current legal sector regulation when using AI tools, including in reserved legal activities.
“AI innovation is vital for the legal sector and already has great momentum,” Law Society CEO Ian Jeffery said.
“The existing legal regulatory framework supports progress. The main challenges don’t stem from regulatory burdens, but rather from uncertainty, cost, data and skills associated with AI adoption.
“Technological progress in the legal sector should not expose clients or consumers to unregulated risks. Current regulation of the profession reflects the safeguards that Parliament deemed vital to protect clients and the public.
“It ensures trust in the English and Welsh legal system worldwide.”
Two thirds of lawyers already use AI tools in their work, The Law Society pointed out, yet there is widespread uncertainty around the exact requirements for data security, oversight and liability.
Instead of changing or introducing new regulation, lawyers should be provided with clear, practical guidance on existing rules, the society said.
The organisation believes clarity should be provided on issues including the anonymisation of client data added to AI platforms; data security, storage and sharing; whether lawyers must always oversee AI used in legal services; how AI can be used in legal services; how AI can be used by solicitors to help carry out legal activities such as conveyancing and probate; and who is responsible in the event AI gives incorrect or harmful advice.
“The Law Society strongly supports innovation provided it remains aligned with professional integrity and operates in a solid regulatory environment,” Jeffrey said.
“The government must work with legal regulators and bodies to ensure adherence to the sector’s professional standards. Any legal regulatory changes must include parliamentary oversight.”
