Queensland Law Society releases AI guidance

The Queensland Law Society (QLS) has released guidance for more than 13,000 members on the responsible use of AI.

The QLS is the peak representative body for Queensland legal professionals and offers leadership and support to its members.

The guidance contains a list of ethical obligations solicitors should consider when appropriately using AI in legal practice.

It covers confidentiality, transparency, supervision and accountability and legal costs to clients.

“If a practitioner uses AI technology in their practice, they must ensure they and all staff possess and have access to the relevant skills necessary to do so appropriately,” QLS said in a statement.

“Confidentiality: Solicitors should take reasonable steps to ensure that any AI tool they employ does not misuse access to confidential data or expose such confidential information to dissemination.

“Where feasible, clients should be advised if an AI tool will be used when performing their work. AI tools should be used as an aid to, and not a replacement for, professional judgment,” QLS stated.

QLS president Rebecca Fogerty told Digital Nation there are no formal repercussions tied to the guidance statement.

“The purpose of the statement is to provide Queensland legal practitioners with a framework for the responsible and ethical use of AI in legal practice.

“Firms and solicitors are free to consider their own policy around the use of AI, however, they must still adhere to all ethical obligations that are required when admitted into the legal profession,” Fogerty added.

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