In an article published by the International Chamber of Commerce written by Samuel Aguirre, Leonardo Florencio, and Karthik Balisagar the transformative potential of AI in the legal industry is explored. Including the insights from a comprehensive survey of over 100 legal practitioners worldwide.
They found that:
- there is some agreement amongst legal practitioners that have a more advanced or intermediate knowledge of AI-powered tools that they can enhance the credibility and persuasiveness of legal arguments in disputes.
- 64% of legal practitioners say they believe that three years from now AI will revolutionise the disputes industry and transform the way legal and expert services are delivered.
- Confidence levels and perceptions of AI technology are closely tied to knowledge and practical experience, emphasising the need for bridging the knowledge gap in the legal profession.
There is also much in the news about the use of AI and its benefits and risks and less about the general lack of awareness and understanding of its capabilities and practical applications. As a relatively new concept, it is not yet understood by many, that said, as the above article suggests even in the legal profession the landscape is set to change significantly in the not-too-distant future and will become part of our everyday lives.
However, before we get to that world driven by intelligence beyond our human capabilities, the rate of advances in technology and the use of electronic communications and social media over the last decade has been significant. The use of social media, and platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Linkin, Whatsapp, and text messaging have become part of everyday life and for the majority the main form of communication with friends, family, and the world.
Many people do not think in the moment that their social media posts or text messages may provide evidence to be used against them in a dispute. Far too many people overshare, willingly telling the world, where they are, and what they are thinking or feeling. Such a post or communication can unravel someone’s claim or defence, if it has been obtained through the correct process, as it can be persuasive and can be accepted by the Court as evidence.
Whilst this is a reminder, that as individuals we need to be conscious that our messages which we consider to be “private” may not be and may be used for or against us if a dispute arises.
Comment
As solicitors dealing with disputes between private parties, usually family members who are in dispute about a Will or ownership of a property and where the case is often heavily reliant on who said what, something promised or to show the nature of a relationship. The use of social media and electronic communications can prove invaluable and something we should not forget to include in our armoury and be prepared to use to our best advantage.
How can we help?
Lesley Harrison is an Associate in our expert Dispute Resolution team, specialising in inheritance disputes and disputes over property.
If you are the beneficiary of a Trust and have reason to believe that the trustees are in breach of their duties and powers please contact Lesley or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester, or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form.
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