During a recent address to the Manchester Law Society, Sir Geoffrey Vos, the master of the rolls, shed light on the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on common law principles. With a tone of cautious optimism, Sir Geoffrey explored how AI might revolutionize various legal realms, spanning from company and contract law to the intricacies of criminal proceedings.
Sir Geoffrey underscored the pragmatic benefits of integrating AI into legal practice, suggesting that lawyers may soon find themselves compelled to harness AI tools to uphold standards of competency. Envisioning a future where AI systems play a pivotal role in routine decision-making, he envisioned a symbiotic relationship between human judges and AI-generated outcomes, ensuring a balance of efficiency and ethical oversight.
Despite lingering apprehensions surrounding AI’s implementation, Sir Geoffrey sought to demystify the technology, likening it to ubiquitous tools like smartphones. He emphasized AI’s potential to streamline tasks such as contract drafting, albeit with a caveat for human intervention to ensure accuracy and ethical considerations. Looking ahead, Sir Geoffrey hinted at the possibility of AI prompting a reevaluation of foundational legal principles within the common law framework, while also offering opportunities to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of the digital justice system.
