Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere. It’s even knocking on the doors of law firms, ready to help with writing briefs, contracts, and more. Many lawyers are excited. But jumping in without preparation? That’s where trouble starts.
TLDR: AI can make legal writing faster, cleaner, and even smarter. But only if you avoid common mistakes when choosing and using the right tool. Don’t rush. Plan carefully. And remember: AI is your assistant, not your boss.
1. Picking the Shiniest Tool Instead of the Right One
The first big mistake? Grabbing the flashiest AI tool because it promises the moon. Yes, it’s tempting. Some tools come loaded with fancy dashboards, chatbots, and glowing testimonials. But that doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for legal work.
What to do instead:
- Match the tool to your actual needs. Are you drafting contracts, summarizing case law, or checking for legal citations? Choose accordingly.
- Look for legal-specific AI tools. General writing assistants won’t understand the subtleties of legal jargon.
- Test before committing. Many tools offer free trials or demos. Try them out with real legal writing tasks.
Choosing the right AI is like finding the right associate. You don’t want just charm; you want skill and relevance.
2. Forgetting About Ethics and Confidentiality
Here’s a scary one. AI tools may store or review the data you feed them. If that includes sensitive client information, you might be breaking ethical rules — or worse, the law.
Avoid the trap by:
- Reading the fine print. Does the provider promise data confidentiality?
- Staying on secure platforms. Don’t paste client info into random tools online.
- Consulting your bar association. They often release guidance on how to use AI ethically.
Think of it this way — would you post that confidential clause on social media? If not, don’t paste it into a non-secure AI tool.
3. Skipping the Training
You wouldn’t toss a first-year law student into court without orientation. So why start using an AI tool without training?
Even the best AI needs human direction. And your team needs to know how to use it effectively.
Smart steps:
- Take advantage of tutorials and support. Many vendors offer webinars and help centers.
- Create cheat sheets and workflows. Make it easier for your team to follow best practices.
- Encourage a “test and learn” mindset. Let people play with non-critical documents first.
Training might sound boring, but skipping it could lead to bad AI outputs — and bad legal consequences.
4. Assuming the AI is Always Right
This one’s big. Don’t fall into “automation bias” — assuming that if a machine says it, it’s correct. AI isn’t a licensed attorney. It doesn’t understand context or nuance like you do.
Always:
- Double-check AI-generated text. Especially citations and legal references.
- Edit the writing to suit your voice and objectives.
- Stay in control. Use the AI as a helper, not as the final word.
Think of AI as an over-eager intern. Bright and helpful, but also capable of occasionally inventing facts to impress you.
5. Ignoring Updates and Evolving Features
AI tools are constantly improving. But if you install one, love it, and leave it untouched — you’re missing out.
Keep up by:
- Updating the software regularly. New features often address earlier bugs or add time-saving tools.
- Watching release notes and newsletters. Vendors love sharing what’s improved.
- Joining user communities. Other legal professionals might share tips or tricks.
Imagine buying a top-notch coffee machine and forgetting to clean or upgrade it. That’s what using outdated AI feels like.
6. Failing to Define Success
Why are you using AI in legal writing? Quicker turnaround? Fewer typos? Higher-quality drafts? It’s a problem when no one knows what “success” looks like.
Set clear goals:
- Define KPIs (Key Performance Indicators). For example: reduce drafting time by 20% in two months.
- Review results frequently. Is the tool actually saving time or creating more editing work?
- Be ready to change or switch tools. Don’t stay loyal to one just out of habit.
Success doesn’t just happen. You have to plan for it, measure it, and adapt to get there.
7. Overlooking Team Feedback
Maybe the managing partner loves the AI. But what about the paralegals and junior associates who use it every day?
Lessons here:
- Involve multiple people in evaluating the tool.
- Create easy channels for feedback. A simple shared document or regular meetings work.
- Act on what you learn. If users find it clunky, that matters!
No point in paying for top technology if your team dreads using it.
8. Blindly Trusting AI with Legal Research
This one deserves special attention. Legal research is complex. Some AI tools can help summarize or point in the right direction, but they can’t replace real expert analysis.
Play it safe:
- Use AI to identify leads — not make conclusions.
- Validate with trusted databases or your own research.
- Be cautious with free or unverified tools.
Think of AI in research like a GPS. Helpful? Yes. But if it tells you to drive into a lake… you don’t go there.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Human Touch
Even the best AI can’t replace empathy, judgment, or tone. Clients hire humans — not robots — for a reason. That personal connection, that intuitive sense… it’s still irreplaceable.
So remember:
- Use AI to enhance your writing — not to erase yourself from it.
- Keep your voice and intent clear.
- Review with your heart as well as your head.
Final Thoughts
AI tools can be magical, especially in the hands of clever legal pros. But just like any tool, it matters how you use it. Don’t assume, don’t rush, and never forget your core legal training.
The best AI tool isn’t just about technology — it’s about smart people using smart tools in smart ways.
So choose wisely, stay alert, and let the tech amplify your strengths, not your mistakes.
