Using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Tools to Obtain Legal Information

By Alan Kilpatrick

Public use of GenAI tools is commonplace, and GenAI outputs are increasingly integrated into digital technologies, including GenAI summaries at the top of every internet search. It is important for the public to understand how to use them when looking for legal information. The Saskatchewan Access to Legal Information Initiative (SALI) has created a new guide to help support the informed use of GenAI tools: Using Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Tools to Obtain Legal Information.

GenAI creates new content (text, images, audio, and video) by analyzing large datasets and predicting patterns. It does not think independently but generates outputs based on learned structures and predictions. While GenAI tools have the potential to increase the accessibility of information and assist the public with navigating legal information, concerns about accuracy, currency, hallucinations (made-up information), and privacy exist.

Legal Information providers, such as libraries, service agencies, and community organizations, can help the public by:

• Explaining how GenAI tools work
• Outlining the risks of using GenAI-generated legal information
• Identifying signs of credible legal information
• Guiding the public to reliable legal sources

GenAI technology is changing rapidly, and the guide will be updated as technology evolves. Contact SALI at sali_project@usask.ca for more guidance.