Training the AI-Enabled Lawyer: Educating Attorneys on Effective and Ethical Use of Gen AI Tools
As attorneys continue to implement generative AI (GAI) tools across live client work, law firms are recognizing that comprehensive associate training represents a critical component of responsible GAI integration. In a recent article for American Bankruptcy Institute Journal, LP Partner Lisa Vandesteeg and co-author Christopher Updike of Stretto, Inc. review applicable rules for lawyers’ professional conduct, document firm-specific initiatives, and identify best practices in the emerging landscape of law-firm-driven GAI training programs. Key recommendations include:
- Closing the training gap. Attorneys are deploying GAI in live client matters faster than firms can train them, and delayed action creates professional liability exposure.
- Understanding ethical obligations, and monitoring state bar guidance. ABA Formal Opinion 512 and Model Rules 5.1 and 5.3 place direct responsibility on firm leadership to establish GAI policies and ensure adequate training. Firm leaders should also track state-specific requirements in every market where they practice.
- Choosing a training model that fits your firm. Options range from intensive boot camps and experiential programs to mentorship models and third-party partnerships. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
- Implementing the four pillars of an effective AI training policy. Establish operational protocols around output validation, data confidentiality, client-facing AI usage policies, and bias detection.
- Considering collaboration. Multi-firm consortiums offer a cost-effective way to develop standardized training and share best practices across the profession.
Considering how to improve your firm’s GAI training program? Lisa Vandesteeg would love to hear from you.