UK judges issue warning on unchecked AI use by lawyers

A senior UK judge has warned that lawyers may face prosecution if they continue citing fake legal cases generated by AI without verifying their accuracy.

High Court justice Victoria Sharp called the misuse of AI a threat to justice and public trust, after lawyers in two recent cases relied on false material created by generative tools.

In one £90 million lawsuit involving Qatar National Bank, a lawyer submitted 18 cases that did not exist. The client later admitted to supplying the false information, but Justice Sharp criticised the lawyer for depending on the client’s research instead of conducting proper legal checks.

In another case, five fabricated cases were used in a housing claim against the London Borough of Haringey. The barrister denied using AI but failed to provide a clear explanation.

Both incidents have been referred to professional regulators. Sharp warned that submitting false information could amount to contempt of court or, in severe cases, perverting the course of justice — an offence that can lead to life imprisonment.

While recognising AI as a useful legal tool, Sharp stressed the need for oversight and regulation. She said AI’s risks must be managed with professional discipline if public confidence in the legal system is to be preserved.

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