Research published indicates that 89 per cent of legal professionals across the UK and Ireland, including Northern Ireland use AI tools in some capacity, with 70 per cent adopting them in the past year.

Responding to the growth and use of AI by local solicitors the Law Society of Northern Ireland has launched new guidance on the Responsible use of Artificial Intelligence.

Developed by the Society’s Law Tech Group the new guidance will provide insight, practical support and comprehensive information to solicitors and support staff who are currently using or intend to use AI professionally.

Commenting on the launch of the new guidance the chair of the Law Tech Group, Angela Brady, said: “I am deeply grateful to the members of the Law Tech Group and Society staff for their work in ensuring that the guidance covers every aspect of AI including how to use it effectively, responsibly and in compliance with the Society’s professional obligations and regulations.”

The publication of the new guidance comes at a time of increasing reports from other jurisdictions of lawyers using AI leading to reputational damage and regulatory repercussions and clients misusing AI tools like ChatGPT for legal advice.

Addressing these issues Jude Copeland, chair of the Emerging Technologies Sub-Group at the Law Society, said: “AI cannot replace the skills, experiences or empathy offered by a local solicitor. However, what it does offer to solicitors, their staff and clients are greater opportunities and efficiencies which will benefit all.”

The new guidance is available to members and can be accessed here.