Artificial intelligence continues to transform the legal profession, but recent weeks have demonstrated both its potential and its pitfalls.

On one hand, the courts have issued clear warnings following several cases in which lawyers relied on inaccurate AI-generated legal authorities without carrying out adequate checks. On the other, an AI-powered law firm has achieved what is believed to be the first reported court victory of its kind.

The courts emphasise human oversight

The use of AI in legal proceedings has attracted increased judicial scrutiny this year.

In recent cases, judges have criticised the submission of inaccurate case citations generated by AI tools, reinforcing that legal professionals remain responsible for verifying the accuracy of any AI-assisted work before it is presented to the court. The courts have also highlighted the importance of protecting confidential client information when using AI systems, particularly publicly available platforms.

These decisions underline an important principle: while AI can assist legal professionals, it cannot replace their professional judgement or ethical obligations.

A milestone for AI in legal services

Against this backdrop, AI-powered law firm Garfield Law has announced what is believed to be the first reported court victory achieved using an AI-driven legal platform.

Authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in 2025, Garfield Law specialises in helping businesses recover unpaid debts of up to £10,000. Its online platform enables users to upload invoices and contracts, after which AI assists with drafting correspondence, preparing court documents and guiding clients through the claims process.

Since launching, Garfield has reported that more than 600 claims have been started through its platform, with over £500,000 recovered or resolved for its users.

The successful claim

The reported case involved a freelance HR consultant seeking to recover approximately £7,000 in unpaid fees.

Garfield’s AI platform assisted throughout the matter, including preparing the letter before claim, issuing proceedings, responding to the defence, drafting witness statements and assembling the trial bundle.

Advocacy at the final hearing was conducted by a barrister, highlighting that while AI can streamline document preparation and case management, courtroom advocacy and legal strategy continue to rely on human expertise.

Looking ahead

The contrasting developments illustrate how AI is becoming an increasingly important tool within the legal sector. Used appropriately, it has the potential to improve efficiency, reduce costs and increase access to legal services. However, recent judicial warnings serve as a reminder that AI should support—not replace—the knowledge, judgement and professional responsibilities of qualified legal practitioners.

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As AI technology continues to evolve, it seems likely that its role in legal practice will continue to expand, provided appropriate safeguards and human oversight remain firmly in place.