Putting AI into Legal Practice: Professional Responsibility and Preserving Privilege

Over the past year, the legal industry has grappled with the evolving capabilities of artificial intelligence systems and how we might ethically deploy these powerful tools in our business and practice. Although many State Bars have now proposed or adopted ethical guidance on the use of AI systems in practice, most stop short of addressing how using AI systems can impact important protections for clients, including the attorney-client privilege. This presentation will explore current guidance on the ethical use of AI and considerations for protecting confidentiality and privilege.

Jeff Kelly, Partner, Nelson Mullins (Raleigh) - Jeff Kelly is a partner at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP, where he concentrates his practice on emerging technology and regulation, particularly in areas involving data analytics, artificial intelligence, digital assets, and FinTech. He helps entrepreneurs and companies effectively navigate changing regulations, government investigations, and complex corporate and securities law challenges. In addition to his legal practice, Kelly serves in several leadership positions at the intersection of law, technology, and increasing access to justice, including as a Fellow of Duke University School of Law’s Center on Law and Technology, serving on the Governing Council of the American Bar Association’s Center for Innovation, and as a Commission Member of the North Carolina Equal Access to Justice Commission.