A solicitor has been referred to the Legal Services Commissioner in Australia after the Supreme Court of Victoria raised concerns about the potential use of artificial intelligence in preparing court filings.
Justice Kristen Walker of the Supreme Court noted “serious concerns” regarding the accuracy of the material submitted. Although the solicitor was not named, Dib & Associates Lawyers were listed as the applicant’s representatives.
“It is not acceptable for artificial intelligence to be used by solicitors or barristers in the production of court documents, unless the product of that use is independently and thoroughly verified,” Justice Walker stated.
During the review, the court found quotations that could not be located in the cases they were said to come from, along with several authorities that did not appear to exist. After further examination, Justice Walker concluded that seven cited cases were non-existent and that at least 12 quotations could not be found in the judgments referenced.
Her chambers emailed the solicitor seeking clarification, but no response was received.
The matter has now been referred to the Legal Services Commissioner, who will determine whether further action is required.
