Can AI Be Sued for Legal Advice?

AI and Legal Advice

Artificial intelligence is useful, informative, and remarkable; however, it isn't a person or a licensed attorney. It is a language form that does not dispense reliable legal advice. The “terms of use” of an A.I. platform likely state that it is not a substitute for legal guidance from a professional and disclaim liability.

A.I. can be helpful, but it should not be used instead of an actual attorney.

Hiring a Law Firm

The decision to hire a law firm is yours. If you are comfortable with the law firm or lawyer, and the retainer arrangement is satisfactory, that is your decision.

Often, a direct recommendation from a friend, family member, or another attorney is helpful in finding a solid attorney or firm.

Questions to Ask

Here are questions to help you decide whether to hire an attorney or law firm:
(a) What is the experience level of who will be working on your case?
(b) Who will be working on it (a lawyer or a paralegal)?
(c) What percentage is the lawyer seeking as part of the retainer arrangement?
(d) Who is paying the out-of-pocket costs, and how much will those be?
(e) Will you be able to reach the person handling your file without much trouble?

Do your due diligence. The California Courts have self-help centers online that provide resources to people without a lawyer. You can seek information over the phone, in person, or online at selfhelp.courts.ca.gov.

Ron Sokol has been a practicing attorney for over 40 years and has served as a judge pro tem, mediator, and arbitrator.