The Role of the Lawyer in AI Projects: More Than Just Legal Compliance
The blog post is authored by Henna Tolvanen.
When companies start using AI, lawyers often play a bigger role than just ensuring the project is legally compliant. Successful AI projects are about more than just the technology; they need data privacy, ethics, risk management, and robust contracts. And it’s often the lawyer who pieces these together.
Data privacy and security are crucial areas of focus, especially with GDPR requirements in mind. While these regulations can feel like hurdles, a lawyer can transform data compliance into a strength by making sure personal information is handled responsibly, which ultimately improves the project’s credibility. This isn’t about restricting the project with rules; it’s about creating a stable framework that allows the project to progress without compromising privacy.
Responsible and ethical AI use is not just a catchphrase; it requires transparency and accountability. AI projects shouldn’t merely tick regulatory boxes but should reflect the values of the company. Lawyers play a key role in addressing ethical considerations like fairness and avoiding biases, ensuring these issues are managed before they escalate into larger problems. Their input often extends beyond compliance, promoting a thoughtful evaluation of how AI impacts decisions and actions.
When it comes to contracts and liability, the lawyer’s expertise is essential. AI decision-making can complicate accountability, and lawyers are the ones ensuring contracts clearly define responsibilities. Agreements with external providers also require careful scrutiny – issues like data licensing and intellectual property need close attention to avoid stumbling over details mid-project. Here, the lawyer protects the project from unnecessary legal risk.
AI regulation is a moving target, and lawyers help companies stay ahead of new requirements and adapt when necessary. Effective risk management means conducting impact assessments and maintaining thorough documentation to ensure transparency and legal clarity as the project evolves. In this way, lawyers prepare companies for a future where AI use will be increasingly regulated.
It’s also worth noting that lawyers themselves can benefit from AI in their own workflows. From contract analysis to document review, AI tools can make routine tasks faster and more accurate. By using AI in their own processes, lawyers gain firsthand experience with its practical benefits, which they can apply to their company’s broader AI projects. Here, AI shifts from being a trendy buzzword to becoming a genuine tool for lawyers and companies alike.