Lawyers must be diligent when using AI advancements such as ChatGPT for their professional duties. Relying on the technology could have potentially damaging consequences for their career, clients and law firms, cautions one legal expert.
Mtho Maphumulo, Senior associate at Adams & Adams, explains that while there are benefits to using tech advancements to start one’s research, legal professionals should use AI sparingly and be aware of the risks associated with their use.
ChatGPT, like other AI tools, often gets citations wrong and provides incorrect explanations which could be detrimental to clients’ cases. Further, the tool is often outdated and struggles with current/recent events.
Lack of accuracy in the citations or explanations used in court papers can have legal ramifications. Lawyers are held liable for professional negligence if they fail to provide properly researched facts. This can lead to serious repercussions for the lawyer including being reported to the Legal [Practice] Council, reputational damage, distrust by clients and colleagues, forced closure of the firm, and more.
Adams & Adams is an African legal services provider with a strong emphasis on corporate law. It provides a range of services including registered agent services, M&A services, tax advice, and international litigation and arbitration advice.
Mtho Maphumulo is a senior corporate lawyer based in Johannesburg, South Africa, specializing in mergers and acquisitions, corporate structuring, and securities law. He is focused on helping clients effectively utilize technological advancements to launch their research, while ensuring the use of traditional methods of legal research.
