Experts stress deep study in legal education over AI

Legal experts at a recent event called Justice Unplugged discussed the future of legal education in India. They stressed the need for critical thinking in law, beyond what artificial intelligence (AI) can offer. The conclave took place at VIT School of Law in Chennai on March 22, 2025. P.R. Raman, a senior advocate, shared his concerns about relying too much on AI for studying complex topics like law. He mentioned that while he found older AI tools useful for efficiency, they should not replace the hard work necessary for mastering legal concepts. Professor P.R.L. Rajavenkatesan supported this view, saying that AI can help gather information but cannot replace the learning process that builds intelligence over time. Anirudh Krishnan, another advocate, echoed their sentiments, stating that reading case laws is essential for students. It helps them form a solid understanding of legal principles. He warned that relying solely on AI could hinder their development. All three experts emphasized the importance of combining traditional study methods with new technology to truly grasp the law. The discussion also touched on the role of legal practitioners in teaching. Mr. Raman noted that while practitioners may not fit into formal teaching roles, they provide valuable insights into real-life legal practices. He highlighted the importance of ethics and professional conduct in law education. Regarding the challenges of a legal career, Mr. Raman pointed out that many students have misconceptions about their future paths in litigation. Accessing higher courts can be difficult for students, which makes it hard for them to understand court processes. He suggested that a stronger regulatory body combining the UGC and Bar Council of India could help uphold standards in legal education.