AI Document Drafting: What the ABA Says About Technology Competence

The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, specifically Rule 1.1 Comment 8, establish that competent representation requires attorneys to keep abreast of the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology.

AI document drafting tools fall squarely within this mandate. Attorneys who understand and appropriately use these tools can deliver faster, more consistent work to clients while maintaining the professional judgment that defines legal practice.

The key principle: AI assists, it does not practice law. The attorney remains responsible for every document. Proper use means treating AI output as a first draft that requires professional review, not as a finished product.