In a column published on 7/16, Family Law Attorney Rebecca Palmer provides insight into the latest tech advancements in the legal industry, such as AI and cloud storage, and outlines the ethical responsibilities attorneys have today. As the Managing Partner of her firm, Rebecca encourages attorneys to remain diligent and protect client information, as stated under ABA Model Rule 1.6, by adopting secure tech policies and prioritizing human review whenever utilizing AI.

When firms choose to use AI, Palmer stresses it’s important to “Never input confidential client information into a general-purpose AI tool without explicit assurances from the provider that the data will not be stored, used for training, or accessible to third parties. Ideally, law firms should utilize AI solutions designed for the legal industry, like Lexus or Lex Machina, with robust security protocols, independent certifications, and clear data privacy policies that align with ethical obligations.”

Rebecca further writes that the ABA Rule 1.6 obligates lawyers to make “reasonable efforts” to protect against unauthorized disclosures, a standard that continues to evolve with emerging technology

“The digital age presents incredible opportunities for legal practice,” she says. “By embracing technology responsibly, prioritizing security measures, and maintaining transparent communication, legal professionals can continue to foster deep trust with their clients, which will help protect their firm’s reputation and cultivate lasting client relationships.”

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