Quick Hits:
- A federal judge suggests using AI to interpret legal texts, marking a potential shift in the legal profession.
- The proposal includes AI tools like ChatGPT to assist judges in understanding ordinary meanings in legal contexts.
- Emphasizes the importance of careful integration of AI in the legal system to ensure accuracy and reliability
By Samuel Lopez, Legal Analyst at USA Herald
[USA HERALD] – As an analyst in the legal and insurance industry, I have witnessed numerous innovations in the field. However, few proposals have been as unexpected and potentially transformative as the one put forth by U.S. Circuit Judge Kevin Newsom. In a recent concurring opinion during an insurance dispute, Judge Newsom suggested that courts might benefit from using artificial intelligence programs to interpret legal texts. This idea, which he described as “unthinkable,” could revolutionize the way we understand and apply the law.
The context of Judge Newsom’s proposal was an insurance dispute involving Alabama landscaper James Snell and United Specialty Insurance Company. The case is cited as Snell v. United Specialty Insurance Company, 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 22-12581.
The crux of the matter was whether Snell’s installation of an in-ground trampoline fell within the definition of “landscaping” as per his insurance policy. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ultimately ruled against Snell, but the case prompted Judge Newsom to explore the potential of AI in legal interpretation.
Judge Newsom’s curiosity led him to experiment with generative AI programs such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and Anthropic’s Claude. After spending hours researching the ordinary meaning of “landscaping,” he asked a clerk to consult ChatGPT. The AI’s response was both sensible and insightful, suggesting that installing an in-ground trampoline could indeed be considered landscaping.
Reflecting on this experience, Judge Newsom noted, “While the idea of using AI in legal contexts might seem radical, my brief interaction with ChatGPT showed that it can provide coherent and relevant interpretations. As a textualist, I see potential in using AI alongside traditional tools like dictionaries and semantic canons.”
Despite his optimism, Judge Newsom acknowledged the need for caution. He agreed with Chief U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Roberts’ sentiment that the use of AI in the legal profession requires “caution and humility.” The known risks of AI, such as producing inaccurate information (often referred to as “hallucinations”), must be carefully managed. However, Judge Newsom expressed confidence that technological advancements would reduce these risks over time.
The proposal comes at a time when courts across the country are grappling with the rapid rise of AI programs. Some judges, particularly those with conservative leanings, see potential in AI for conducting research for “originalist” and “textualist” rulings. The debate over AI in law isn’t just about practicality but also about the philosophical implications of integrating machine intelligence into human judgment.
As someone deeply immersed in the legal field, I believe that Judge Newsom’s proposal is both exciting and daunting. The integration of AI could enhance our understanding of legal texts, making interpretations more consistent and informed. However, we must proceed with caution to ensure that we do not undermine the human elements of empathy, discretion, and ethical judgment that are central to the legal profession.
AI offers a promising tool for legal interpretation, but it must be employed responsibly. Balancing technological innovation with judicial prudence will be key to harnessing AI’s full potential while maintaining the integrity of our legal system.
Judge Kevin Newsom’s proposal to use AI in interpreting legal texts marks a significant moment in the evolution of the legal profession. While the idea may seem radical to some, it opens the door to a future where technology and human judgment coexist to deliver more accurate and efficient legal interpretations. As this discussion continues to unfold, it will be crucial to strike a balance between embracing innovation and preserving the core values of our judicial system.
For more insights and articles by Samuel Lopez, visit my bio on the USA Herald website
