In recent years, artificial intelligence has become more accessible and more powerful. From drafting emails to generating business documents, AI tools can appear to offer a fast and inexpensive solution for complex tasks. It is no surprise that some individuals facing legal disputes are tempted to represent themselves and rely on artificial intelligence to prepare their briefs and court filings.

That decision can be extraordinarily costly.

While AI programs can produce text that sounds polished and persuasive, they do not understand the law, your specific facts, procedural rules, or the strategic consequences of what they generate. Courts across the country have already encountered filings that cite non-existent cases, misstate legal standards, or rely on outdated law because an AI system “hallucinated” authorities that were never real. Judges have sanctioned parties and attorneys alike for submitting such materials.

For a self-represented litigant, the risks are even greater.

First, AI cannot exercise legal judgment. It cannot evaluate credibility, weigh risks, or anticipate how a particular judge is likely to interpret a motion. Litigation is not simply about drafting; it is about strategy. A single poorly framed argument or procedural misstep can waive critical rights or permanently damage a case.

Second, AI does not ensure compliance with court rules. Every jurisdiction has detailed formatting, timing, service, and evidentiary requirements. Missing a deadline or failing to properly preserve an issue for appeal can end a case before it truly begins. Courts do not relax these standards simply because a party chose to represent themselves.

Third, confidentiality and accuracy concerns remain significant. Many AI platforms store or process user input in ways that may not be secure. Sensitive personal or business information entered into such systems may not be protected by attorney-client privilege. Moreover, AI tools are trained on vast datasets and may generate generalized content that does not accurately reflect the controlling law in your jurisdiction.

Finally, opposing counsel will not be relying on artificial intelligence alone. They will be represented by trained professionals whose responsibility is to identify weaknesses, exploit procedural errors, and protect their client’s interests at every stage. Litigation is adversarial by design. Entering that arena without experienced counsel can place you at a profound disadvantage.

Artificial intelligence can be a helpful tool when used responsibly by trained legal professionals who verify, refine, and strategically apply its output. It is not a substitute for legal education, courtroom experience, or sound professional judgment.

If you are facing a legal dispute, the most important investment you can make is in competent legal representation. An experienced attorney does more than draft documents. We analyze risk, develop strategy, ensure compliance with procedural rules, protect your rights, and advocate effectively before the court.

If you would like to discuss your matter or explore how we can assist you, please do not hesitate to contact my office. The decisions you make at the outset of a case can shape its outcome for years to come.

Written by Attorney John Lohr, Jr., jll@hgplaw.com

The information contained herein is general information not legal advice. E-mailing attorneys from this website does NOT establish an attorney/client relationship. A formal attorney/client relationship begins after a conflicts check and engagement agreement are signed.