Responding to AI in Law: Roundtable Sets New Priorities

The Slovak Bar Association organised a roundtable attended by leading representatives of the judiciary. The discussion focused on identifying appropriate responses to the rapid rise in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in legal practice and in the exercise of judicial professions. Among the prominent participants was also Peter Štrpka, founding partner of law firm soukeník — štrpka.

Representatives of the judiciary pointed out that AI has the potential to significantly streamline the processing, retrieval, and analysis of data, automate translation activities, and process documents. However, an essential topic was also the need to ensure that the introduction of these technologies does not jeopardise the fundamental nature of the provision of legal assistance and the administration of justice.

The participants discussed several important aspects:

Risks of improper use: Incorrect implementation of AI may weaken the system of rights protection and harm the rule of law. If the challenges associated with the technology are not addressed in a timely manner, consequences that are difficult to remedy may arise for both justice and democracy.

Regulatory and practical issues: The discussion addressed the need to resolve issues of information security, personal data protection, and the confidentiality of communication between attorney and client. These challenges should be addressed by each segment of the judiciary primarily within its own competences or through self-governance.

Education and development of legal professions: Leading representatives emphasised that future legal education must build on traditional principles – the teaching of legal doctrines, ethics, and fundamental legal concepts. According to the participants, it is essential that future judges, prosecutors, and attorneys do not become merely uncritical users of AI, but retain independent legal reasoning.

Cooperation and exchange of experience: Representatives of the judicial professions agreed that their close cooperation and regular exchange of experience are key to adapting to changing conditions and ensuring continuous education in the field of the use of artificial intelligence.

You may read Peter Štrpka’s opening remarks by clicking this link (PDF).

Link to the article published on the website of the Slovak Bar Association.