Case Western Reserve University School of Law will become the first in the nation to require all first-year law students to earn a certification in legal AI. Launching in February of 2025, the “Introduction to AI and the Law” program—developed in partnership with Wickard.ai—will immerse students in the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and its impact on the legal world.
The course provides hands-on experience with AI-powered legal tools, while exploring the evolving landscape of AI regulations, ethical considerations and the future of legal technology. Through this program, the School of Law is not just keeping pace with innovation—it's setting the standard for the future of legal education, said Avidan Cover, professor and associate dean for academic affairs at the School of Law.
“This initiative highlights Case Western Reserve School of Law’s unwavering dedication to shaping the next generation of legal professionals,” Cover said. “By integrating AI education into the foundational curriculum, we are not only addressing the demands of a rapidly evolving legal landscape but also empowering our students with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate and lead in a technology-driven profession. This program exemplifies our commitment to preparing graduates for both the challenges and opportunities of modern legal practice.”
The program will be taught by lecturer Oliver Roberts, who is co-head of the AI Practice Group at Holtzman Vogel.
“Case Western Reserve School of Law has demonstrated quick, decisive leadership and a strong commitment to innovation,” added Roberts, who is also the editor-in-chief of AI and the Law at The National Law Review, and the founder and CEO of Wickard.ai. “It’s been a pleasure collaborating on this groundbreaking initiative, and we look forward to shaping the next generation of legal professionals together.”
Program overview:
- Understanding AI Fundamentals: Students will gain the ability to define and explain key concepts and technologies related to AI and LLMs, including their development, architecture, and functionality.
- Practical Applications in Legal Practice: Students will explore how AI and LLMs are being utilized in various areas of legal practice, including legal research, document review, and case outcome prediction. They will also examine how law firms and practitioners are adopting AI to enhance their workflows.
- Ethical and Regulatory Guidelines: Students will review guidance from the American Bar Association (ABA) and state bar ethics opinions on the ethical use of AI in legal practice. Key topics include competence, confidentiality, supervision, and the obligation to stay informed about emerging technologies.
- Best Practices for Data and Client Management: Students will learn and apply best practices for managing data and client information when using AI tools, with a focus on ensuring security, accuracy, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Driving Innovation and Addressing Legal Challenges: Students will assess how AI can foster innovation in legal and business services while examining emerging regulatory trends and societal challenges, such as intellectual property issues, liability frameworks, and access-to-justice initiatives.