AI can’t replace lawyers, Supreme Court nominee Anthony Forson warns

Supreme Court nominee Anthony Forson has cautioned legal professionals against becoming too reliant on artificial intelligence, emphasizing that AI should serve as an aid to human expertise rather than a replacement. Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on August 27, 2026, Forson highlighted that AI could expedite legal research and enhance efficiency.

However, he cautioned that the technology could produce inaccurate or misleading information if used without proper knowledge of the law. Forson urged lawyers to first develop a robust understanding of legal principles before utilizing AI tools, enabling them to critically evaluate the generated information. He stressed that AI is an aid, stating, "AI can never replace the human being."

Forson also noted that AI could make legal work more efficient and economically viable when used by practitioners with the necessary expertise. "With your good understanding of the law, it will assist you to work very fast. And it is economically much more viable but it can never replace the human effort," he added. Forson reiterated that despite the rapid advancements in AI and its increasing application in professional services, human judgment, expertise, and responsibility would remain essential to legal practice.