Who’s Liable When AI Gets It Wrong? 

AI is rapidly transforming the legal landscape—but it hasn’t changed the rules of responsibility. 

As more law firms explore AI-powered tools for tasks like document review, research assistance, and client communications, one crucial question remains: 

 “If AI makes a mistake, who’s accountable?” 

 In most cases, it’s still the lawyer. 

1. AI Is a Tool—Not a Decision-Maker 

AI can support legal work, but it can’t replace professional judgment. It’s not a licensed practitioner, and it doesn’t share liability. 

That’s why it’s critical for firms to understand: 

⚠️ Accountability always rests with the attorney—even when AI is involved. 

At Origin, we help law firms explore these issues through education—not implementation. We don’t install software or configure systems. Instead, we help teams understand the implications of AI through webinars, digital maturity assessments, and strategic conversations. 

2. Oversight Can’t Be Superficial 

Many lawyers assume that a quick glance over AI-generated content is enough. But in reality, courts and regulators are looking for meaningful supervision

We’ve seen real-world examples where: 

      • Attorneys faced disciplinary action after relying on inaccurate AI-generated case law. 

        • Legal filings were rejected due to fabricated citations or unverified content. 

      These aren’t just tech glitches—they’re ethical landmines. 

      3. How Firms Can Protect Themselves 

      Even without adopting AI directly, many firms benefit from gaining clarity on how to manage the risks. We recommend: 

      Understanding the Landscape 
      Before adopting any AI tools, evaluate where they might fit within your firm—and where they shouldn’t. 

      Investing in Education 
      Train your staff to recognize both the capabilities and the limits of AI tools. This is where our webinars and firm-specific education come in. 

      Using a Digital Maturity Assessment 
      Our assessments help firms identify where they stand in terms of digital readiness, risk exposure, and policy gaps—especially when it comes to emerging technologies. 

      AI may assist with the work—but attorneys still bear the responsibility. 
      Whether your firm is already experimenting with AI or simply trying to understand it better, education is your best protection. 

      By approaching AI with intention and awareness, your firm can remain both innovative and ethically sound

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