SRA issues warning on use of AI in legal practice
updated on 25 August 2026
Anna O’Boyle is acting senior content and engagement coordinator at LawCareers.Net
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The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has published a warning notice on the misuse of AI, setting out how solicitors can use the technology responsibly in their practice. The guidance, released on 17 August 2026, follows the increased adoption of AI across the legal profession.
The warning notice emphasises that solicitors must check the accuracy of information submitted to courts, appropriately supervise work carried out for clients and remain accountable for all work produced using AI tools.
The SRA's guidance comes as the use of AI continues to expand rapidly across legal services, creating a need for clear and timely direction on the ethical and professional use of emerging technologies.
Law Society of England and Wales Vice President Brett Dixon welcomed the warning notice, saying it provides clarity on how AI use interacts with the delivery of legal services, particularly in relation to court proceedings and client confidentiality.
Dixon stressed that AI should support and enhance legal practice rather than replace the solicitors' role in providing trusted advice. He added that solicitors have a responsibility to act in their clients' best interests, which includes using AI and other technologies responsibly.
He also called for the SRA to continue providing swift and clear guidance as AI evolves, stating that ongoing support will help solicitors use the technology confidently while meeting their professional duties.
