US Law Schools Rewrite AI Rules as Legal Education Changes
Author : The Law Reporters | Published On : 24 Sep 2026
Artificial intelligence is creating a new challenge for US law schools: how to prepare students for technology increasingly used in legal practice without weakening the skills lawyers are expected to develop independently.
At least a dozen US law schools introduced or revised AI policies during the summer of 2026. Their approaches vary considerably. Some institutions are restricting laptops, phones and AI tools during classes, while others are requiring students to receive formal instruction in AI-related technology.
The University of Georgia, for example, introduced restrictions on classroom devices while requiring students to complete an AI-related technology course. Berkeley Law has adopted tighter default restrictions covering the use of AI for activities such as brainstorming, summarising legal rules and editing written work.
Other institutions have taken more flexible approaches. Columbia allows certain uses of AI for testing arguments and reviewing ideas, provided the student's work remains independently created. Michigan permits AI for brainstorming and research but restricts its use in drafting and revising work.
AI use during examinations remains widely restricted.
The debate reflects a wider concern within legal education. Future lawyers may need practical knowledge of AI, but they must also be able to analyse law, exercise independent judgment and protect confidential information without becoming dependent on automated tools.
