[2024 LTAS] 'AI Law Authority' Professor Baker: "Fearless AI, Essential Role of 'Human Legal Professionals'"

On the morning of the 26th, James E. Baker, a judge of the U.S. Federal Information Protection Review Court and a professor at Syracuse University College of Law, delivered the keynote speech at the "2024 Legal Tech AI Special Exhibition (LTAS, Legal Tech & AI Show)" held at Hall A on the 1st floor of COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul. Photo by Legal Times

James E. Baker, a judge of the U.S. Federal Information Protection Review Court and a professor at Syracuse University College of Law, stated on the 26th, "Artificial Intelligence (AI) does not feel fear," adding, "In the AI era, the duty of legal professionals is to maximize the advantages of AI and minimize its risks."

Professor Baker delivered a keynote speech titled "The Future of the Legal Profession Brought by AI" at the ‘2024 Legal Tech & AI Show (LTAS)’ held at COEX Hall A in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, hosted by Law Times and Messe ISANG. He said, "AI can be used as a technology of dictatorship or as a technology that supports democracy." He also stated, "Although some say AI will take away the jobs of legal professionals, that is not actually the case," and added, "Rather, legal professionals will play a key role in deciding whether AI becomes a democratic tool or an authoritarian one."

Professor Baker, who has served as a member of the U.S. Department of State’s Advisory Committee on International Information and the National Security Council, is regarded as an authority on 'AI law' in the American legal community. He currently chairs the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Law and National Security. The 'AI Primer for U.S. Federal Judges,' which Baker authored last year at the request of the U.S. Federal Judicial Center, is known as a must-read for legal professionals involved in AI litigation practice.

As AI technology rapidly advances, everyone is on high alert for the changes it will bring, and the legal community is no exception. Some extreme predictions suggest that highly advanced AI will completely replace judges, lawyers, and other legal professionals. However, Professor Baker drew a line under such views, emphasizing that "humans must always be involved."

Professor Baker said, "Many jurors in the U.S. often perceive AI as a future Terminator," and added, "Legal professionals such as lawyers and judges need to explain that AI is not such a threatening entity." He explained, "Judges are 'users' of AI, and lawyers who advise clients or engage in policy-making must constantly consider how much autonomy to grant AI, when, and under what circumstances." He further stated, "The role of these 'human legal professionals' will determine what role AI will play in society." He repeatedly emphasized, "While considering how to maximize the benefits of human-AI collaboration, whenever a crossroads arises, we must choose the right and ethical path that preserves human dignity."