In a column published on 11/12 in the Daily Business Review, Family Law Attorney Rebecca Palmer explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping family law, primarily in areas of divorce, custody, and mediation that require human insight and emotional intelligence. AI tools are offering greater efficiency; however, they carry a significant risk of manipulation, confidentiality violations, and non-compliance.

“Attorneys can now manage discovery, track expenses, and share drafts in real time with clients and opposing counsel with ease while maintaining client confidentiality and compliance,” Palmer writes. “As technology becomes further embedded in family law practice, the courts’ increasing comfort with digital tools redefines what ‘best practices’ look like for parents, attorneys, and mediators.”

The family law landscape is now becoming increasingly ethically complex, and lawyers must adjust their approach beyond transactions to remain emotionally Intune and protect privacy.

“Family law is entering a new era in which the ethical and professional bar for handling technology must rise alongside the pace of innovation,” Palmer said. “While the judiciary continues to explore formal guidance on digital evidence to ensure consistency in authentication, metadata retention, and AI-derived evidence, attorneys are responsible for elevating their conduct in line with every attorney’s oath to uphold the law and faithfully represent clients.”

Read the story in full; click here (subscriber-based).