Resources
AI and the Law
You can access a range of resources to learn more about Artificial Intelligence and its implications for your practice.
Library resources
AI refers to the development and use of computers to perform tasks traditionally associated with human intelligence. The definition and usage of AI is constantly evolving.
The Law Society Library’s starter guide, 'Artificial Intelligence in Legal Practice' outlines the basic concepts of AI and AI policy and regulation issues. It also covers issues around the use of AI in legal education and legal research and the risks and challenges of using AI assisted technologies in legal practice:
For a more comprehensive dip into AI, our latest Subject Guide brings together a wide range of resources in one location. Find details of relevant books, eBooks, Gazette and other journal articles, professional guidance and law and policies including the EU’s AI Act due to be passed into law later this year:
If you would like to borrow any books on AI or other topics, the Law Society Library is offering free delivery on all books borrowed on 7 March for International Book Day.
AI events and coverage
While the extent of the impact AI may have on the legal profession in the long-term is unknown, many solicitors and firms are researching, investing in, and using AI tools and technologies as part of their practice.
At a recent Law Society Professional Training seminar, legal professionals and data protection officers came together to explore the landscape of privacy and AI and offer a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the intersection of technology and legal obligations as well as the basics of data privacy.
At another February webinar, hosted by Mason Hayes Curran, attendees were told that AI will replace tasks rather than jobs and that the major risk associated with AI was of ignoring or failing to prepare for compliance.
Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds was the keynote speaker at a TUS conference last month on ‘Technology and the Rule of Law’ where expert speakers from across the legal profession and academia discussed the impact of emerging digital technologies like blockchain and AI on access to justice including environmental justice, and existing laws and regulations, focusing on ethics, use of emerging technologies in legal practice and higher education.
Due to the growing interest in this area and in anticipation of the EU’s AI Act, we are planning more AI events and CPD training later in the year.
Keep up-to-date with the Gazette
There are details of many articles and books provided in the Library’s AI Subject Guide. Some of the recent Law Society Gazette articles on AI are also listed below:
