CBC News: Risks of AI in Canadian Courts - Featuring Ron Shulman, Shulman & Partners

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how people search for information, communicate, and make decisions, including in deeply personal and legally complex areas such as family law. A recent article published by CBC News, CTV News, Global News, and The Star examines how generative AI tools like ChatGPT are increasingly being used by clients navigating legal disputes, sometimes with unintended consequences. Ron Shulman, Managing Partner at Shulman & Partners LLP, shared insights on how this shift is showing up in real-world family law files and why it can create challenges rather than clarity. While AI can assist with organization and general information, its growing role in client communications, court materials, and self-representation raises important questions about accuracy, cost, and trust. As courts and legal professionals adapt to this evolving landscape, understanding the limits of AI has become essential for families trying to make informed decisions during separation or divorce.

"Some people are now also using AI to represent themselves in court without a lawyer, which can delay proceedings and escalate legal costs for others as parties wade through reams of AI-generated materials."
— Ron Shulman, Managing Partner, Shulman & Partners LLP

The article explores how artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing interactions between lawyers and clients, particularly in family law matters where emotions, finances, and parenting decisions are already under strain. Ron described a noticeable shift in client behaviour over the past several months. Where unusually detailed emails once suggested outside help from a family member or friend, Ron now routinely asks whether AI was involved, and clients frequently confirm that it was.

He explained that while AI can be helpful for summarizing information or organizing thoughts, problems arise when clients rely on it as a substitute for legal judgment. AI tools can confidently produce information that is inaccurate, incomplete, or inapplicable, which can mislead clients about their rights and obligations. In family law, where legal outcomes depend heavily on specific facts such as marital status, parenting arrangements, and financial disclosure, this lack of nuance can quickly derail a case.

AI-generated materials are increasingly appearing in court filings, sometimes without disclosure. Courts across Canada have begun issuing guidance on AI use, and some have imposed financial penalties when submissions included fabricated cases or irrelevant legal authorities. Ron noted that these situations can increase legal costs for everyone involved, as lawyers and judges must spend time untangling errors that never should have been introduced.

One example provided by Ron involved a client who sent several pages of AI-generated content about exclusive possession of the matrimonial home, directing the firm to include it in court materials. The issue was that the client was not married, meaning the legal concept did not apply at all. Reviewing and correcting such material still takes professional time, ultimately increasing fees rather than reducing them.

Ron emphasized the importance of clients using AI cautiously and transparently. He now advises clients that he must carefully review anything they send and encourages them to ask questions directly instead of relying on automated tools. In some cases, he is open to helping clients understand how to use AI more effectively, but always within the context of proper legal advice.

The article situates these experiences within a broader discussion about access to justice. While AI has the potential to help people organize information and understand general processes, it cannot replace professional judgment, ethical obligations, or an understanding of how the law is applied in real life. Ron's perspective underscores a central takeaway: technology may be a useful tool, but in family law, informed human guidance remains essential.

Read the full CBC News article here (subscription may be required).

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media  archive.