ALASTAIR PURDY LLP / RESPONSIBLE AI
Responsible AI. Professional judgement.
Our principles for assessing and using artificial intelligence in the delivery of legal services, while preserving confidentiality, accountability and the independent judgement of our solicitors.
OUR POSITION
Technology should support the lawyer, not replace the lawyer.
Artificial intelligence has the potential to assist with information organisation, legal work processes and other administrative or analytical tasks. It can also produce inaccurate, incomplete or misleading results.
Our approach is to consider AI by reference to the purpose of each task, the professional obligations involved and the safeguards necessary for responsible use. Technology does not change who is accountable for the advice given to our clients.
OUR PRINCIPLES
Established obligations. Careful adoption.
These principles guide the firm’s assessment and use of AI-assisted tools. They do not imply reliance on any particular AI product or that every application is appropriate for legal work.
01 / INDEPENDENT JUDGEMENT
Lawyer responsibility
AI may assist aspects of legal work, but it cannot replace a solicitor’s independent analysis, professional judgement or accountability to the client. The lawyer remains responsible for the advice and work issued.
02 / ACCURACY & VERIFICATION
Review before reliance
AI-generated text, research suggestions, citations and summaries can be wrong. Their reliability must be independently assessed, with original authorities and underlying materials checked before they inform advice or court documents.
03 / CONFIDENTIALITY & PRIVACY
Information first
Any proposed processing of client or sensitive information using AI must be assessed against confidentiality, legal professional privilege, data protection and information-security requirements. Suitability cannot be assumed from a tool’s availability.
04 / PROPORTIONATE USE
Use the right tool
We favour a purpose-led approach, considering whether an AI-assisted process is appropriate to the task, the potential risks and the level of verification and professional oversight required.
05 / PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Litigation and evidence
AI use must not compromise duties owed to the courts or the integrity of evidence. Authorities, quotations, factual assertions and documents intended for proceedings require appropriate independent verification.
06 / CONTINUOUS REVIEW
Governance as technology develops
We recognise that AI systems, their limitations and the rules governing them continue to evolve. Our assessment of their suitability must evolve with them and reflect applicable professional and regulatory expectations.
TRANSPARENCY
Discussing AI with our clients
Client instructions, confidentiality requirements and the nature of a matter can affect the suitability of AI-assisted processes. Clients may discuss any particular requirements or concerns with the solicitor responsible for their matter.
OUR DIGITAL APPROACH
Part of a wider technology strategy
Our approach to AI sits alongside our investment in digital matter management, document workflows and other technology designed to support efficient legal services.
ALASTAIR PURDY LLP
Accountable advice. Modern delivery.
Speak to us about your business or any technology-related questions concerning your instructions.
Statement published: 12 October 2026. This statement sets out general principles and does not amend the terms of any client engagement.