Southwestern Law School will launch a pioneering program aimed at integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into legal education, set to debut in 2026. This initiative, titled Introduction to AI & Law, responds to the increasing demand for new lawyers to comprehend how AI tools are applied throughout the legal profession. Open to both J.D. and LL.M. students, the program is developed in partnership with Wickard.ai, a provider specializing in legal technology education.
The program is structured to provide students with hands-on experience in how AI is transforming legal work, from research and drafting to litigation support. It also aims to address the ethical and professional responsibilities associated with AI use. “Employers increasingly expect new lawyers to understand how artificial intelligence is used in legal research, drafting, and other core legal workflows, as well as the ethical and professional responsibility obligations that accompany its use,” said Dean Darby Dickerson. He emphasized that this program equips students with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to be ready for an AI-enabled legal environment.
Instruction will center on real-world applications of AI in legal practice, alongside critical risk management topics such as hallucinations, confidentiality issues, and the professional responsibilities linked to AI use. Southwestern Law School has indicated that the emphasis will be on practical skills rather than theoretical knowledge, aligning with the shifting demands of the legal job market.
The new program builds on a previous collaboration with Wickard.ai in 2025, when the company provided AI training for the school’s Parris Academy for Excellence in Law & Leadership. “Southwestern Law School has long been ahead of the curve on innovation in legal education, and this program is a natural extension of that leadership,” stated Oliver Roberts, CEO and Founder of Wickard.ai and instructor for the upcoming course. He praised Dean Dickerson and the institution’s commitment to preparing students for the integration of AI in modern legal practice.
Upon successful completion of the Introduction to AI & Law program, students will earn a badge in Law & Generative AI. This credential will be recognized on resumes and professional profiles, signaling to employers that participants have received verified training in AI-related legal skills, along with an understanding of current legal and ethical considerations surrounding its use.
The introduction of this program marks a significant step in legal education, as law schools increasingly adapt curricula to meet the evolving landscape of the legal profession. The rise of AI tools in law has raised questions about the future of traditional legal roles and the requisite skills for new lawyers entering the field. By offering practical training in AI applications, Southwestern Law School aims to ensure that its graduates are not only knowledgeable but also equipped to navigate the complexities of modern legal practice.
As AI continues to reshape various industries, the legal field is no exception. The ability to leverage AI for tasks such as document review, contract analysis, and predictive analytics is becoming essential. The launch of this program at Southwestern Law School reflects a broader trend among educational institutions to incorporate technology into their curriculums, preparing students for a future where AI will play an increasingly critical role in legal services.
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