News-California-Bar-AI-Ethics-Rules-2026
May 6, 2026 — The State Bar of California proposed the first AI-specific amendments to the California Rules of Professional Conduct, addressing competence, client communication, confidentiality, candor, and supervision in the use of artificial intelligence by lawyers.[1]
The six proposed amendments, introduced by the Standing Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct (COPRAC) at the behest of the California Supreme Court, come amid the increasing proliferation of AI and continued examples of fabricated legal authorities appearing in court filings. The public comment period closed on May 5, 2026.[1]
Key proposals include:[1]
- Rule 1.1 (Competence): Adds AI as an example of relevant technology; requires lawyers to independently review, verify and exercise professional judgment regarding any AI-generated output.
- Rule 1.4 (Communication): Requires lawyers to inform clients when using AI that presents a significant risk or materially affects the scope, cost, manner or decision-making process of representation.
- Rule 1.6 (Confidentiality): Expands the definition of reveal to include AI use regarding a client's confidential information.
- Rule 3.3 (Candor): Addresses AI hallucinations, requiring lawyers to verify the accuracy and existence of cited authorities, including any generated or assisted by AI, before submission to a tribunal.
- Rules 5.1 & 5.3 (Supervision): Clarifies that managerial lawyers should establish internal policies governing AI use, and that lawyers must give appropriate supervision to staff using AI.
COPRAC may modify the proposals after reviewing public comments before final submission to the California Supreme Court.