Judges in England and Wales are given cautious approval to use AI in writing legal opinions

England's 1,000-year-old legal system — still steeped in traditions that include wearing wigs and robes — has taken a cautious step into the future by permitting judges to use artificial intelligence to help produce rulings. “Judges do not need to shun the careful use of AI,” said Master of the Rolls Geoffrey Vos, the second-highest ranking judge in England and Wales. “But they must ensure that they protect confidence and take full personal responsibility for everything they produce.” Vigorous public debate on the use of AI At a time when scholars and legal experts are pondering a future when AI could replace lawyers, help select jurors or even decide cases, the approach spelt out on December 11 by the judiciary is restrained. “So I do think AI may be slower disrupting judicial activity than it is in other areas and we'll proceed more cautiously there.” Mr. Abbott and other legal experts applauded the judiciary for addressing the latest iterations of AI and said the guidance would be widely viewed by courts and jurists around the world who are eager to use AI or anxious about what it might bring. “I suspect that many, many judges have internally cautioned their staffs about how existing policies of confidentiality and use of the internet apply to the public-facing portals that offer ChatGPT and other such services.” Limitations of AI highlighted The guidance shows the courts' acceptance of the technology, but not a full embrace, Ms. Gentile said.