Colombo – The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has released a draft framework on the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in legal practice, signalling the legal profession’s growing efforts to address the opportunities and challenges presented by rapidly evolving AI technologies.
The draft document outlines a proposed set of principles and best practices for lawyers using Generative AI tools in areas such as legal research, document drafting, case analysis, client communications and administrative work. While not legally binding, the framework seeks to provide guidance on the responsible and ethical use of AI within Sri Lanka’s legal sector.
The release comes amid increasing adoption of AI-powered technologies by legal professionals around the world. Generative AI platforms are capable of producing legal drafts, summarising complex documents, conducting research and assisting with case preparation. However, concerns surrounding accuracy, confidentiality, accountability and professional ethics have prompted legal regulators globally to develop safeguards governing their use.
According to the draft framework, AI should be viewed as a tool that assists legal practitioners rather than replacing professional judgment and expertise. Lawyers would remain responsible for verifying the accuracy of AI-generated content and ensuring that all legal submissions, advice and documentation meet professional standards.
A key focus of the proposed guidelines is the protection of client confidentiality. The draft advises lawyers to exercise caution when using public AI platforms and to ensure that confidential or sensitive client information is not exposed through AI systems without appropriate safeguards and informed consent.
The framework also highlights the need for human oversight and accountability. Under the proposed principles, attorneys would remain fully responsible for work produced with the assistance of AI, regardless of the technology used. AI-generated outputs would be treated as preliminary drafts requiring careful review and verification before use.
The draft further addresses concerns relating to fabricated legal citations, inaccurate information, algorithmic bias and data protection. It proposes that lawyers establish robust verification processes and ensure compliance with Sri Lanka’s legal and regulatory requirements, including privacy and data protection obligations.
Importantly, BASL has described the document as a guidance framework that is expected to evolve alongside technological developments. Given the rapid pace of AI innovation, the association acknowledges the need for continuous review and future updates to reflect emerging risks, opportunities and regulatory developments.
Legal and technology observers view the publication of the draft as an important step towards preparing Sri Lanka’s legal profession for the growing impact of artificial intelligence. Rather than resisting technological change, the framework seeks to encourage responsible innovation while preserving the profession’s core values of competence, confidentiality, integrity and accountability.
As Generative AI continues to transform professional services worldwide, the BASL’s draft framework is expected to contribute to broader discussions on how Sri Lanka’s legal sector can embrace new technologies while maintaining public trust and professional standards.
Link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lIxqf0sF4-Dy-5y7eFPuz21s2iAXaKqD/view
