This was a podcast episode of “Everything AI and Law” hosted by Tolulope Awoyomi. The podcast featured a conversation with Brian, a leading lawyer, computer scientist, philosopher, and podcast host, about the future of law in the context of artificial intelligence (AI). The discussion covered various aspects of AI, such as large language models, deep fakes, and smart contracts, and their implications for the legal field.
Key speakers
- Tolulope Awoyomi, Lawyer & Host of “Everything AI and Law” podcast
- Brian Beckcom, Lawyer, Computer Scientist, Philosopher, and Host of the “Lessons from Leaders with Brian Beckham” podcast
TAKEAWAYS
Takeaway 1: AI is already impacting the legal field and its influence is only set to grow
AI is already having a profound impact on the legal field, and it’s expected to continue shaping the industry. Lawyers and other legal professionals must become more tech-savvy to keep up with these changes. Brian, a leading lawyer and computer scientist, explained that AI is already baked into many of the programs and systems used in law, with large language models and AI being particularly effective in automating and streamlining certain tasks.
Brian noted, “I’ve started using large language models about two and a half years ago and for some stuff it’s great. For some stuff it is terrible.” He mentioned how AI could be invaluable in generating ideas, drafting questions and answers, and even automating email correspondence. However, he also cautioned that AI could lead some lawyers into trouble if they trust it too much without understanding the technology underneath.
He emphasized the importance of understanding how AI works and using it as a tool rather than a replacement for human expertise, saying, “There are certain legal types of legal practice that will no longer exist because of AI…but the fundamental structure of it, way of thinking, it’s just like philosophy.”
Takeaway 2: The intersection of law and technology will demand a new kind of professional
The rise of AI in the legal field will inevitably lead to a new breed of professionals: lawyers who are also computer scientists. As AI becomes more integrated into various aspects of legal work, practitioners will need to understand both the legal and technical aspects of their work. Brian emphasized that the future of contract law, for instance, will inevitably involve aspects of computer science.
“You’re going to be writing, you’re going to have to be thinking like a computer scientist and thinking like a computer scientist means thinking algorithmically,” Brian explained. He further emphasized the need for future lawyers to develop an understanding of new technologies like blockchain and smart contracts, which are already transforming the way legal contracts are managed.
Takeaway 3: Law education needs to evolve with the rise of AI
As AI continues to transform the legal field, law education must adapt to ensure that future lawyers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. While maintaining the traditional Socratic method of teaching law, Brian suggested that additional classes on emerging areas such as AI, blockchain, or cybersecurity could offer students a more comprehensive education.
Brian argued, “If I were running a law school I would not only focus on teaching my kids how to think or my students how to think but I would double down on that because I think that’s even more important nowadays.” He emphasized that while technical knowledge is important, the ability to reason and think critically remains fundamental in the field of law regardless of technological advancements.
Takeaway 4: The philosophical implications of AI
Beyond the technical and legal aspects, AI also raises a host of philosophical questions, including those about what it means to be human and the nature of intelligence. As a philosopher himself, Brian highlighted the importance of engaging with these deeper questions as we develop and use AI.
“AI forces us to ask things like what does it mean to be human, what is intelligence, are there different kinds of intelligence?” Brian said. He emphasized that although technical experts may have considerable insight into the workings of AI, they may not be equipped to address these philosophical questions. Therefore, the engagement of philosophers in discussions about AI is essential.
Takeaway 5: AI as a tool for positive change
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, Brian expressed optimism about the potential of AI to bring about positive change. He pointed to the potential of AI in curing diseases, enhancing productivity, and improving various aspects of society. However, he also emphasized the need for smart, informed leadership to navigate the ethical and practical challenges that come with AI.
“The Ark of humanity is heading in the right direction,” Brian said. He added, “I think humans have shown that they can handle just about anything.” This encapsulates the hope and potential that AI presents, while also highlighting the need for careful, considerate navigation of its challenges.
Insights surfaced
AI and large language models are already having a significant impact on the legal field, particularly in areas such as contract law.
The future of law may require a blend of lawyers who are also computer scientists, particularly for areas such as smart contracts.
AI has the potential to eliminate certain legal sub-specialties, changing the landscape of the legal profession.
AI can be a beneficial tool in the legal field, but it also presents ethical and legal challenges, such as deep fakes and identity theft.
The fundamental way of teaching law, based on a method of thinking and reasoning, should not change despite the advancements in AI. However, new classes focusing on emerging technologies should be added.
Despite the potential challenges and risks, there is optimism for the future of law with AI due to the potential benefits it can bring.
Key quotes
“AI and large language models would be a huge part of any business that relies on language which is most businesses.”
“Law in many ways is philosophy and for over a 100 years probably more than that actually, the traditional way of teaching law students is called the Socratic method which is like a question and of course so Socrates was the original philosopher right so like philosophy is deeply deeply deeply embedded in law.”
“Pure contract lawyers are now going to become computer programmers basically using smart contracts and putting these contracts on blockchains and things like that.”
“I think hum humans have shown that they can handle just about anything so overall I’m optimistic.”
“I think the fundamental thing we need is we need smart people that are aware of the technology that are aware of the issues and that are working hard on it.”
“It’s an exciting time. It really is an exciting exciting time to be alive. It’s a danger from a technological standpoint legal standpoint. It’s a dangerous time in many ways for some of the reasons we’ve talked to but it’s a really really exciting time.”
You can catch up on the podcast episode here.
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