Can AI Chatbots Replace Lawyers: Not If A NY Senate Bill Can Help It

Some years ago, I listened to Richard Susskind speak about the "Future of Professions" and, in his view, how systems like AI might replace them. Indeed, the disruption he predicted largely has materialized in recent years, as many assess what impact AI will have on certain professional services, knowledge-based occupations, such as attorneys, accountants, healthcare professionals, etc. The jury is still out, but while most believe professions will not be eliminated entirely, there most certainly will be some impact, driving the need for adaptation to market realities.

Artificial intelligence chatbots are increasingly being deployed across industries - from healthcare portals to legal tech platforms to financial services. As these tools take on more substantive roles, lawmakers are beginning to push back. New York Senate Bill S7263, introduced last year by Sen. Gonzalez, would impose meaningful liability on businesses that allow chatbots to stray into licensed professional territory.