Attorneys, judges, and court staff in Illinois can now use artificial intelligence (AI) in their work, with no requirement to disclose its use in pleadings, as long as it adheres to professional conduct rules, the state’s top court declared on Wednesday.
The Illinois Supreme Court’s new policy encourages AI adoption, stating that its use by litigants, attorneys, judges, and court staff “may be expected” and “should not be discouraged.” However, the policy also mandates that any AI applications used must ensure the safety of all sensitive information.
While AI technology can be employed in various aspects of the judicial process, including legal research and document drafting, the court emphasized the importance of review and accountability. The policy requires a thorough review of any AI-generated content before it is filed in court, with judges remaining responsible for final decisions.
The policy also stresses that individuals using AI must fully understand both its general capabilities and the specific tools they are utilizing. This ensures that AI technologies, while beneficial, are not misused or relied upon inappropriately.
