Lex Wire Journal Highlights Attorney Jeff Howell’s AI Ethics Program for Legal Professionals
Lex Wire Journal, a leading platform for attorney visibility in the digital era, recently featured attorney Jeff Howell’s presentation titled “Ethics in the Age of AI: Navigating Professional Responsibilities in Legal Practice.” This continuing legal education (CLE) program was delivered to the National Academy of Continuing Legal Education (NACLE) audience, addressing a critical issue facing today’s lawyers: effectively using AI tools while upholding ethical standards.
Howell’s CLE course provides clear, practical guidance for attorneys working with AI technologies like ChatGPT, Harvey AI, Relativity, and contract analysis platforms. His program focuses on avoiding ethical pitfalls that could lead to sanctions, malpractice claims, or disciplinary actions.
Applying ABA Model Rules to AI-Assisted Legal Work
The presentation breaks down how established ABA Model Rules on competence, confidentiality, supervision, and fees directly impact AI use in legal practice. Howell equips attorneys with strategies to manage risks such as AI bias, accuracy issues, data breaches, and the dangers of overreliance on automated systems.
As Howell put it during the session: “Don’t hit ‘generate’ and walk away. You’re still the lawyer. AI is just a very persuasive intern with no law degree.” This highlights the ongoing responsibility lawyers carry when integrating AI into their workflows.
Case Studies and Compliance Frameworks
The program includes analysis of recent case law, notably the landmark Mata v. Avianca sanctions case, illustrating the real consequences of improper AI use. Attendees received actionable frameworks to build effective AI governance systems that protect client interests, improve efficiency, and maintain professional integrity.
- Competence: Ensuring lawyers understand AI tools well enough to use them responsibly.
- Confidentiality: Safeguarding sensitive client data when using AI platforms.
- Supervision: Monitoring AI outputs to prevent errors and ethical breaches.
- Fees: Transparent billing practices when AI assists legal tasks.
Managing AI-Related Risks in Legal Practice
Howell’s training emphasized identifying and mitigating AI-specific risks, including bias detection, verification protocols for AI-generated content, data security measures to prevent breaches, and avoiding blind trust in automated processes. This practical, risk-aware approach helps attorneys maintain ethical compliance amid increasing AI adoption.
Preparing for Evolving Standards in AI Ethics
As courts and regulatory bodies develop new AI standards, attorneys with a solid grasp of AI ethics will have an advantage in serving clients effectively and avoiding liability. Howell’s session addresses these emerging challenges while fulfilling continuing legal education requirements.
The presentation also reflects the growing recognition among state bars of the importance of AI ethics education in professional responsibility.
Leadership in Ethical AI Adoption
Jeff Howell’s expertise positions him as a leader in responsible AI use within the legal profession. His work helps attorneys prepare for changes in legal standards and maintain compliance through ongoing AI governance.
He noted during his CLE presentation: “The trend is moving toward more disclosure and more accountability, not less.” The program offers practical frameworks for attorneys to adapt to new AI technologies without compromising ethical duties.
For attorneys interested in expanding their knowledge on AI ethics and tools, exploring specialized courses can provide valuable skills and insights. Resources like Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses offer focused education tailored for legal professionals integrating AI into their practice.
About Jeff Howell and NACLE
Jeff Howell is recognized for his expertise in AI ethics and professional responsibility in legal practice. His presentation to the National Academy of Continuing Legal Education underscores his commitment to advancing ethical AI use in law.
The National Academy of Continuing Legal Education (NACLE) provides MCLE programming that meets state requirements and addresses challenges related to technology adoption and professional responsibility.
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