Barristers and judges

becomes acquainted with the facts of a case through reading statements, law reports, and consulting with clients or other professionals

AI tools like Westlaw Edge, Lexis+ AI, and CaseText can rapidly surface relevant case law, statutes, and statements, but a barrister must still exercise judgment in selecting what matters and building a coherent case theory.

advises client on the basis of legal knowledge, research and past precedent as to whether to proceed with legal action

AI legal research platforms can identify precedents and assess case strength, but the nuanced advice given to a client—weighing risk, cost, and strategy—requires human professional judgment and accountability.

drafts pleadings and questions in preparation for court cases, appears in court to present evidence to the judge and jury, cross examines witnesses and sums up why the court should decide in their client’s favour

AI drafting tools like Harvey or CoCounsel can generate initial pleadings and suggest cross-examination questions, but courtroom advocacy, reading a witness, and persuasive oral argument remain deeply human skills.

hears, reads and evaluates evidence, and instructs or advises the jury on points of law or procedure

AI can assist judges in summarising evidence or flagging legal inconsistencies, but evaluating credibility, weighing competing evidence, and directing a jury on law requires irreplaceable human judicial discretion.

conducts trials according to rules of procedure, announces the verdict and passes sentence and/or awards costs and damages

Conducting trials, pronouncing verdicts, and sentencing are constitutionally and legally reserved for human judges; AI may assist with sentencing guidelines research but cannot replace the authority or accountability of judicial office.