596.01 Practicing Law with AI and Big Data

Artificial intelligence systems are already being employed at firms. Expert systems (rule-based AI) are used to automate workflows, while machine learning systems (data-driven AI) are used to manage complex litigation and provide strategic intelligence. These latter systems require large swaths of data, termed big data, to provide the computer sufficient information to perform predictions. This course will pull back the curtain on the different systems, allowing students of all skill levels to critically engage with the ethical implications of these systems on the practice of law.

NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, PROGRAMMING, OR TECHNOLOGY IS NEEDED FOR THIS COURSE.

Students will work with fellow “associates” to develop an expert system that enhances the firm’s pro bono efforts. Through this assignment, students will engage with AI system development from problem articulation to data discovery through to deployment. Additionally, students will evaluate and utilize AI-tools to discern risks and advise on case strategy. Students will gather the skills and knowledge necessary to become critical and ethical users of expert systems and machine learning empowered technologies through these assignments.

There are no textbook or software purchase requirements for this course. All assigned readings and software used will be available for free to each student.

Special Notes:

*New*

Enrollment Pre-/Co- Requisite Information

Prerequisites: LAW 110 (Civil Procedure), and either L.A.W. 360AB (LARW) or LAW 300 (LARW-INT) 

Spring 2021

Course Number Course Credits Evaluation Method Instructor
596.01
Course Credits
Reflective Writing
Group project(s)
Practical exercises
Class participation
Casandra Laskowski
Sakai site: https://sakai.duke.edu/portal/site/LAW.596.01.Sp21
Email list: LAW.596.01.Sp21@sakai.duke.edu
Course
Degree Requirements
Course Requirements - JD
Course Requirements - LLM
Course Areas of Practice