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The burgeoning use of artificial intelligence in legal proceedings is raising serious concerns about the reliability of its output. Experts are warning of the increasing prevalence of AI ‘hallucinations’ – instances where AI systems generate false or fabricated information – and the potential for this misinformation to undermine the integrity of the legal system.

Recent cases have highlighted alarming examples of legal professionals submitting court filings containing AI-generated legal citations and information that are demonstrably false. This has led to judicial reprimands, including financial penalties levied against firms that have submitted erroneous AI-produced documents.

Despite existing ethical and professional obligations requiring lawyers to verify the accuracy of all submissions, AI hallucinations remain a persistent challenge. Legal professionals and academics are emphasizing the critical need for rigorous verification processes and heightened awareness of the potential pitfalls of relying uncritically on AI-generated content. The risk of judges basing decisions on inaccurate information presents a clear and present danger to the administration of justice.