As artificial intelligence models become more popular, more people are using them to draft emails, letters, summaries or instructions to lawyers. Whilst these AI models may seem convenient and extremely knowledgeable, relying on AI for legal matters can cause many problems, including increasing both time and legal costs.
AI generated content often looks professional and authoritative, but the content it provides is often unreliable and legally unsound. Answers and information generated by machine learning algorithms are based on patterns and previous inputs. It’s not based on a correct understanding of Australian law or the specific circumstances of your case. This can give clients false expectations of their rights.
AI generated responses and emails often contain missing or generalised information, incorrectly quoted clauses of legislation and hallucinated case law. Lawyers must then spend additional time reviewing these instructions and information to determine whether they are accurate. This extra work increases the legal fees that clients may incur.
AI is a tool. It can be helpful for gathering initial information, but it should never be relied on for legal advice as a replacement for clear, factual instructions directed to your lawyer. The most efficient and cost-effective method is to directly inquire with your lawyer and to personally explain the specific circumstances of your case.
At McNamara Law, we can assist your matter by providing clear, tailored advice from the outset, helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring your matter progresses forward in the best and most efficient way forward. Contact us on 1300 285 888.
