The Law Society has advised solicitors to provide clients with appropriate information about how artificial intelligence (AI) is used in legal work. Its latest practice note also says solicitors may ask clients to disclose whether material they provide has been generated using AI.
The 58-page guidance sets out how solicitors can incorporate AI tools into their work while meeting their professional obligations. It emphasises that lawyers remain responsible for the quality and accuracy of their work for clients, courts and third parties, regardless of whether AI has been involved.
Law Society president Brett Dixon said professional responsibility could not be transferred to an AI system. He urged solicitors and law firms to select their tools carefully and ensure that all legal work meets the required professional standards.
Dixon also warned that excessive reliance on AI could create significant gaps in future legal skills and knowledge. While recognising the potential benefits of the technology, he stressed that innovation must not come at the expense of professional integrity or client protection.
The practice note advises solicitors to assess the risks associated with AI tools before using them. Although concerns surrounding free large language model services are widely recognised, the guidance makes clear that paid-for products also require careful scrutiny.
Law firms are encouraged to consider how AI systems are accessed, the terms governing their use, how information is stored and shared, and the location in which the provider operates. They should also assess the possibility of misleading or inaccurate outputs and whether a system has sufficient information about the relevant legal jurisdiction.
The guidance highlights the limitations of using AI to check its own work. An AI system cannot reliably establish the accuracy of its output independently, meaning solicitors cannot meet their professional responsibilities simply by asking another AI tool to verify the results.
Akber Datoo, co-chair of the Law Society’s technology committee, said the practice note brings together practical information to help solicitors make informed decisions about using AI in legal practice.
The guidance reflects the growing importance of responsible AI adoption across the legal profession. As these tools become more widely used, solicitors must continue to exercise independent professional judgement, protect client information and ensure that technology supports rather than replaces their legal expertise.
