Robert A. Clifford, founder and senior partner at Clifford Law Offices, authored an article for the February/March issue of Chicago Lawyer Magazine titled “Guidance on AI.”
The article explores the Illinois Supreme Court’s decision that the state’s Rules of Professional Conduct and Code of Judicial Conduct apply to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal profession and shares guidance for the responsible use of AI tools within the profession.
As new technology emerges and evolves, Clifford urges lawyers to be vigilant in their use of AI tools, ensuring that they comply with local regulations, uphold ethical standards, and do not compromise client confidentiality or the integrity of judicial processes. He cautions lawyers about the potential of creating inaccurate or misleading representations through the use of AI-generated counsel.
“AI has revolutionized the world in countless ways, and the legal profession is no exception. The duties placed on lawyers are evolving as the AI tools are constantly changing.”
Clifford goes on to share that major Illinois legal associations, including the Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Judicial Conference, have launched specialized AI Task Forces to identify the practical benefits of utilizing AI within a legal practice and balancing ethical challenges. The task forces are actively engaged in the development of litigation and court rules for the responsible use of AI within the state, as well as the identification and monitoring of AI standards for lawyers and judges.
Click here to read more about the growing implications for AI in law and specific guidance for lawyers and judges interested in implementing AI in their practice.