The Bar Council has issued new guidance addressing the use of ChatGPT and other GenAI tools for barristers.
The Bar Council has issued new guidance addressing the use of ChatGPT and other generative artificial intelligence (AI) large language model systems (LLMs) by barristers. The guidance emphasises that while there is nothing inherently improper about employing reliable AI tools to augment legal services, practitioners must have a clear understanding of these tools and use them responsibly.
Key risks associated with LLMs, such as anthropomorphism; hallucinations; information disorder; and bias in data training, were highlighted.
Barristers are advised to:
The guidance also recommends staying abreast of relevant Civil Procedure Rules, which, in the future, may implement rules/practice directions on the use of LLMs.
Sam Townend KC, Chair of the Bar Council, emphasised the inevitability of AI tools’ growth in the legal sector and urged barristers to understand these systems for controlled and ethical use.
The guidance, developed by the Bar Council’s IT Panel in consultation with the Regulatory Review Panel, aims to assist barristers in adhering to legal and ethical standards when incorporating LLMs into their practices. It concludes by noting that the guidance is subject to review, and practitioners should remain vigilant and adapt to changes in the legal and regulatory landscape. Importantly, the guidance is not considered legal advice and does not serve as ‘guidance’ for the purposes of the BSB Handbook 16.4.
With our AI functionality, we balance innovation with practical tools to help make your case preparation easier. One of our newest evolutions is Timeline Creation functionality.
Our panel explored the transformative potential of AI and its implications for the legal profession.
If you’re wondering about how we can help you focus more on outcomes, and worry less about hearing prep, book a tailored demo or give us a call.
Want to find out more? Get in touch to find out why TrialView is the platform of choice for dispute resolution.