Artificial Intelligence for Lawyers and Law Students: Crutch, Craft, or Catalyst?

This symposium article explores the integration of generative AI in legal education, addressing its impact on law practice and the responsibilities of law schools in preparing students for an AI-enabled future.It examines the history of AI development, its current capabilities in the legal field, and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.The article proposes three areas for AI integration in law schools: pedagogy, administration, and scholarship, outlining potential benefits and challenges in each.It also discusses the concerns and solutions associated with teaching AI skills to law students, emphasizing the need to develop critical thinking, collaboration, and practical legal skills alongside AI proficiency.The article concludes by advocating for changes in legal education to prioritize AI skills, suggesting that expectations and standards should evolve to reflect the growing importance of AI in the legal profession.