Growing Integration of AI in Legal Education
Law schools across the United States are increasingly weaving artificial intelligence (AI) into their curricula, though specific policies regarding its use remain unclear. A recent survey by the American Bar Association (ABA) and the ABA Task Force on Law and Artificial Intelligence revealed that over half of the 29 surveyed law schools now offer AI courses, with 62 percent incorporating these classes in the first year of study. Moreover, 83 percent provide clinics and intensives, often in collaboration with engineering, computer science, and data science departments.
Emphasis on AI in Legal Studies
The focus on AI in legal education is evident at institutions like Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, which offers AI classes and certificate programs on legal operations, privacy, and ethics. Stacy Leeds, a professor at ASU Law, stated, “Our students will have unparalleled access to explore the intersection of law and technology. This will position them for success in the rapidly changing legal landscape.”
Variety in AI Course Offerings
AI course offerings vary significantly among law schools. Some institutions emphasize the implications of AI on Big Tech and the First Amendment, while others focus on practical instruction using AI tools. AI is also integrated into traditional courses like legal writing, drafting, and analytics. The trend is expected to grow, with 85 percent of surveyed schools considering curriculum changes to include more AI content.
Preparing Future Legal Professionals
Gary Marchant, a professor and faculty director at ASU Law’s Center for Law, Science and Innovation, highlighted the necessity of AI proficiency for upcoming legal professionals. “Law firms and other legal employers need young lawyers who are comfortable with using AI as it becomes increasingly important to the practice of law,” he said. Marchant predicted that successful lawyers will need to incorporate AI into their practice within five years. “Many practicing lawyers don’t have the time or inclination to learn AI themselves. So legal employers will be relying on their new recruits to become the AI implementers in their firm,” he added.
Policy Ambiguity
Despite the emphasis on AI education, many law schools are unsure about specific AI policies, especially concerning admissions. While students are encouraged to learn about AI, most schools are hesitant to allow its use during the application process. Additionally, 62 percent of surveyed institutions admitted uncertainty in handling this issue.
This uncertainty extends to classroom policies. At Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, students are prohibited from using generative AI for assignments unless approved by instructors. This mixed approach reflects the broader ambiguity within legal education regarding the integration and regulation of AI.
