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17 June 2026
Issue: 8166 / Categories: Legal News , Artificial intelligence , Legal services , Regulatory
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Regulator finds gaps in AI safeguards

The Legal Services Board (LSB) has highlighted a lack of safeguards where people use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help with legal problems

Two LSB-commissioned research projects, published this week, highlight both AI’s potential and the regulatory gap. The first, ‘Existing standards for AI-powered business-to-consumer lawtech’, uncovered a dearth of standards for legal advice tools—almost all were designed for other purposes or were non-binding with no enforcement mechanism.

The second, ‘AI in legal services’, found consumers thought AI had potential but wanted five safeguards before using it: a minimum guarantee of accuracy, informed prior consent before any consequential action, human oversight at all times, access to redress for any harm caused, and user safety including protection of their personal information.

LSB chief executive Richard Orpin said: ‘What we found is a gap between what people reasonably expect and the protections currently in place.’

Law Society vice president Brett Dixon said AI could transform access to justice ‘but only if the right safeguards are in place’.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Charles Russell Speechlys—James Paterson

Charles Russell Speechlys—James Paterson

Charles Russell Speechlys further bolsters Private Equity expertise with the appointment of James Paterson

Ellisons—Samuel Flower

Ellisons—Samuel Flower

Ellisons strengthens Rural Affairs team with senior appointment

Sidley—Carl Hotton

Sidley—Carl Hotton

Sidley adds insurance mergers and acquisitions partner to London office

NEWS
Consultant-led law firms should prepare for closer regulatory attention as oversight evolves
Artificial intelligence may draft workplace grievances, but employers cannot treat them any differently from conventional complaints
From dishonest claimants to judicial promotions and procedural skirmishes, the latest legal developments offer plenty for litigators to digest
Fresh guidance is set to influence how courts decide whether hearings take place online or in person
County Court judges remain divided over whether landlords can lawfully force entry to carry out essential safety inspections after tenants ignore access injunctions
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