Artificial intelligence (AI) is often presented as a disruptive force, threatening traditional industries by automating tasks and reducing the need for human labor. In the legal sector, this debate is nothing new. Richard Susskind’s book The End of Lawyers? predicted that many areas of legal practice—such as contract drafting and conveyancing—would become obsolete due to advancements in technology. The idea was that automation could take over routine legal tasks, making human lawyers redundant.

However, these predictions have not come to pass. Clients are not comfortable entrusting critical legal matters, such as drafting contracts or handling property transactions, entirely to AI. The reason? The legal profession requires more than just the mechanical application of rules—it demands human judgment, expertise, and a deep understanding of client needs.

Can AI Help Law Students?

AI can certainly be a valuable tool for law students, but relying on it blindly would be a mistake. Common AI tools, such as ChatGPT, lack the comprehensive legal knowledge necessary to provide accurate and authoritative guidance. While they can outline general legal principles, their information is often sourced from non-peer-reviewed content, online articles, and general search results. This means that AI-generated explanations may lack precision, fail to cite reliable legal authorities, or even contain outright errors.

For students preparing for SQE1, AI can be a useful supplementary tool for revision, summarisation, and organisation of study materials. However, it should never replace rigorous study of primary legal sources, textbooks, and qualified instruction from experienced educators.

The Future of Lawyers in the Age of AI

Rather than replacing lawyers, AI is more likely to reshape their roles. As AI becomes more adept at handling repetitive tasks, lawyers will be freed from mundane administrative work. This will allow them to focus on higher-level thinking, case strategy, and nuanced legal interpretation. The legal profession will become more cerebral, emphasizing skills such as critical analysis, problem-solving, and client advocacy.

Additionally, AI will never replace the uniquely human aspects of legal practice. Empathy, judgment, ethical reasoning, and social intelligence are at the core of what makes a great lawyer. While AI can process data and generate insights, it cannot understand human emotions, build relationships, or provide the kind of tailored advice that clients seek in complex legal matters.

AI in Legal Education: A Tool, Not a Replacement

Law students should embrace AI as a tool to enhance their learning but must also recognize its limitations. The best way to prepare for SQE1 and beyond is through structured legal education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. AI can assist with research and exam preparation, but true legal understanding comes from engaging with legal texts, case law, and experienced mentors.

Conclusion: AI Will Transform, Not End, Legal Education

AI is not the end of law school—it is simply another technological advancement that will shape the profession. Rather than fearing AI, aspiring solicitors should learn how to use it effectively while developing the uniquely human skills that set great lawyers apart. Understanding AI’s strengths and weaknesses will be a crucial part of legal education in the years to come, but one thing remains clear: AI cannot replace human judgment, advocacy, or the ethical responsibilities that define the legal profession.

For SQE1 candidates, mastering legal principles, case analysis, and exam techniques remains the key to success. AI may assist in these areas, but human expertise will always be the foundation of legal practice.