A recent survey of 500 UK solicitors revealed that 62% foresee a surge in AI usage within the next year, as law firms increasingly integrate AI into tasks such as document drafting, contract analysis, and legal research. Hill Dickinson, a prominent law firm with offices across England and abroad, identified over 32,000 interactions with the popular chatbot ChatGPT and nearly 50,000 with Grammarly in just one week. As AI becomes more prevalent in legal operations, concerns about digital proficiency and data security are mounting.
Hill Dickinson has implemented an AI policy to monitor and regulate the use of AI tools. The firm's chief technology officer highlighted the risks associated with AI misuse, stating that improper understanding of new technologies could pose threats to both firms and consumers.
"We have been monitoring usage of Al tools, particularly publicly available generative Al solutions, and have noticed a significant increase in usage of, and uploading of files to, such tools." – Hill Dickinson's chief technology officer
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has voiced concerns over the lack of digital skills within the UK, emphasizing the need for law firms to ensure the safe, secure, and effective use of AI.
"Despite this increased interest in new technology, there remains a lack of digital skills across all sectors in the UK." – Solicitors Regulation Authority spokesperson
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has advised against discouraging AI use, advocating for transparency and regulated access to these tools.
"With AI offering people countless ways to work more efficiently and effectively, the answer cannot be for organisations to outlaw the use of AI and drive staff to use it under the radar." – Information Commissioner's Office spokesperson
Hill Dickinson's new AI policy prohibits uploading client information and requires verification of AI-generated responses. The firm has also introduced a request process for staff to access AI tools.
"Like many law firms, we are aiming to positively embrace the use of AI tools to enhance our capabilities while always ensuring safe and proper use by our people and for our clients." – Hill Dickinson
The UK government acknowledges AI's potential to revolutionize workplaces by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing productivity. A spokesperson from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology described AI as a "technological leap."
"We are committed to bringing forward legislation which allows us to safely realise AI's enormous benefits. We are engaging widely and will launch a public consultation in due course to ensure our approach effectively addresses this fast-evolving technology." – Department for Science, Innovation and Technology spokesperson
Despite its benefits, AI poses risks such as data security vulnerabilities and inappropriate usage. Hill Dickinson's significant tracking of AI tool interactions reflects widespread adoption but underscores the need for careful management.