How UChicago Law School is handling AI in education | ChicagoLIVE

July 12, 2026 - 20:11

The University of Chicago Law School has released a formal policy statement outlining how artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT can be used in legal education. The move comes as law schools across the country scramble to address the rapid adoption of generative AI by both students and practicing attorneys.

Professor Daniel Abebe, who helped draft the new guidelines, explained that the school is taking a measured approach. Rather than banning AI outright, the policy allows students to use the technology for certain tasks, such as brainstorming ideas or checking grammar, but prohibits its use for core analytical work like writing legal briefs or drafting exam answers without explicit permission.

"We are not pretending this technology does not exist," Abebe said. "The goal is to teach students how to use AI responsibly while preserving the critical thinking skills that are the foundation of legal training."

The statement emphasizes that students remain fully responsible for any work they submit, regardless of whether AI assisted in its creation. Faculty members have been encouraged to design assignments that test skills AI cannot easily replicate, such as oral arguments and in-class exercises.

Some students have expressed relief at the clarity. "It was confusing before," said second-year law student Maria Torres. "Now I know exactly where the line is drawn."

The policy also addresses ethical concerns, warning that using AI to fabricate sources or generate misleading legal citations could result in academic discipline. As the technology evolves, the school plans to review the guidelines annually.