Governance

AI Legal Privilege

Questions about whether attorney-client privilege applies to AI-assisted legal work.

Definition

AI Legal Privilege addresses whether traditional attorney-client privilege protections apply when AI is involved in legal communications and work product. Key issues:

  • Third-party disclosure: Does sending privileged information to AI systems waive privilege?
  • Work product doctrine: Does AI-generated legal analysis qualify as protected work product?
  • Common interest: How do AI tools affect common interest privilege arrangements?
  • Vendor relationships: Structuring AI vendor relationships to preserve privilege

Best practices emerging:

  • Using enterprise AI deployments with appropriate confidentiality protections
  • Contractual provisions with AI vendors addressing privilege
  • Documentation of privilege considerations in AI use policies
  • Bar guidance on ethical AI use in legal practice

Sources

  • Attorney-Client Privilege
  • Work Product Doctrine