In a recent ruling in England, a UK High Court judge has raised the alarm over lawyers citing AI-generated fake legal cases in court proceedings. ⚖️
High Court justice Victoria Sharp and judge Jeremy Johnson highlighted two concerning cases where legal arguments were built on non-existent precedent. In one case, a lawyer referenced 18 made-up cases in a 90-million-pound lawsuit involving a dispute over a financing agreement tied to Qatar National Bank. In another instance, five fictitious cases were cited in a tenant's housing claim against the London Borough of Haringey.
Sharp stressed that relying on AI outputs without rigorous verification undermines not only legal research but also public trust in the justice system. She warned that submitting false information could lead to charges such as contempt of court or even, in the worst scenarios, perverting the course of justice—with maximum penalties reaching life imprisonment.
While AI remains a powerful tool for legal professionals, this incident is a timely reminder: always double-check your sources to ensure accuracy. Stay sharp and make tech work for you, not against you! 💡
Reference(s):
UK judge warns of risk after lawyers cite fake AI-generated cases
cgtn.com
