Fake Cases Raise Real Risks as AI Spreads in Canada’s Legal System

Fake Cases Raise Real Risks as AI Spreads in Canada’s Legal System
Experts warn that fake or mistaken case citations generated by so-called AI hallucinations can erode confidence in the justice system.Summit Art Creations/Shutterstock
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In one Toronto court, a lawyer cited cases that simply don’t exist. In British Columbia, another lawyer used made-up citations to back a legal argument. In both cases, the judges delivered sharp warnings: check your use of AI.

Artificial intelligence is moving rapidly into Canadian law offices and courtrooms, reshaping how legal work is done. Lawyers use AI to speed up research, summarize case law, draft filings, and review contracts, saving hours or even days of billable time. AI is lowering costs, accelerating work, and could improve access to legal services.