Law Society’s Proposal for AI Regulation and Online Dispute Resolution Entry Point

The Law Society in England and Wales is pushing for regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal sector to protect consumers and ensure access to justice. Following a workshop earlier this year, experts agreed that action was urgently needed to address potential inequalities and risks associated with AI in legal services.

The society’s ’21st Century Justice’ project also proposed the creation of a single online entry point for legal disputes, called Solutions Explorer. While respondents to the consultation supported this idea, concerns were raised about the scale and upfront cost of such a project. However, the society emphasized the importance of Solutions Explorer in enhancing access to justice for individuals and small businesses in the civil justice system.

Additionally, the society dropped its proposal to create consortia of solicitors to run subscription-funded legal advice helplines, as it was deemed unattractive to those on low incomes and small businesses. Instead, the focus will be on improving and encouraging the use of legal expenses insurance.

The interim report also highlighted suggestions for attracting young lawyers to work in civil legal aid, such as reducing university tuition fees for those undertaking pro bono work or forgiving student debt for those practicing social welfare law. The society will further explore the Dutch ‘high trust’ model for legal aid provision in England and Wales.

Overall, the Law Society is calling for comprehensive reforms to the civil justice system, including new regulations for AI in legal services, improved access to legal aid, and enhanced guidance for solicitors on unbundled legal services. With a general election on the horizon, the society is urging all political parties to prioritize the protection and enhancement of the civil justice system, which is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring a fair society.