As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the legal landscape, law schools are proactively integrating generative AI (GenAI) into their curricula to equip students with the necessary skills for a technology-driven profession.
The University of San Francisco School of Law (USF Law) has embedded GenAI into its first-year Legal Research, Writing, and Analysis (LRWA) program. This integration aims to prepare students to work with emerging technologies in ways that reflect real-world legal practice, emphasizing professional and ethical judgment. Students learn to use AI in legal analysis, evaluate AI-generated content, and confront ethical issues such as confidentiality and bias. ([usfca.edu](https://www.usfca.edu/news/university-san-francisco-school-law-embeds-genai-core-curriculum?utm_source=openai))
Similarly, Case Western Reserve University’s School of Law has introduced a mandatory AI training program for all first-year students. Developed in partnership with Wickard.ai, the program covers fundamental AI concepts, ethical considerations, and hands-on training with AI legal tools. This initiative underscores the school’s commitment to preparing students for the evolving demands of the legal profession. ([case.edu](https://case.edu/news/law-school-forefront-program-artificial-intelligence?utm_source=openai))
Other institutions are also expanding their AI offerings. The University of California, Berkeley School of Law has implemented a policy allowing students to use generative AI for research and editing but not for composing assignments or during exams. This approach reflects a balanced integration of AI tools while maintaining academic integrity. ([news.bloomberglaw.com](https://news.bloomberglaw.com/us-law-week/do-not-publish-how-ai-is-prompting-law-schools-to-revise-their-honor-codes?utm_source=openai))
According to a survey by the American Bar Association (ABA) Task Force on Law and Artificial Intelligence, more than half of the responding law schools (55%) offer classes dedicated to teaching students about AI, and 83% provide curricular opportunities, including clinics, where students can learn to use AI tools effectively. ([americanbar.org](https://www.americanbar.org/news/abanews/aba-news-archives/2024/06/aba-task-force-law-and-ai-survey/?utm_source=openai))
Law firms are also emphasizing technological proficiency alongside traditional legal skills. For instance, Orrick, a US law firm, has initiatives like Orrick Labs and collaborations with institutions to train associates as hybrid professionals—lawyers, business advisors, and technologists. ([ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/5b00b6b1-96cf-4426-af8b-1411049e9604?utm_source=openai))
As AI becomes increasingly integral to legal practice, law schools are adapting their curricula to ensure graduates are proficient in these technologies. This proactive approach not only enhances students’ employability but also prepares them to navigate the ethical and practical challenges posed by AI in the legal field.