4R Decision Framework: When Lawyers Should Not Use AI
With generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Harvey becoming increasingly common in legal practice, Singapore’s Law Society introduced a practical guide in May 2025: the 4R Decision Framework. Authored by Jessica Low and published in The Law Gazette, this framework helps lawyers determine when AI is appropriate—and when human judgment must come first
Feb 25, 2025
Shann Ng
Corporate Lawyer
4R Decision Framework: A Practical Guide for Lawyers on When Not to Use AI
With the rising adoption of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot, and Harvey in legal practices, lawyers face critical decisions about when these powerful technologies should—and shouldn’t—be used. In May 2025, Singapore's Law Society provided clarity through the introduction of the 4R Decision Framework, designed to help legal professionals navigate the appropriate and ethical use of AI.
Understanding the 4R Framework
The 4Rs represent four critical dimensions lawyers must consider before using AI in their practice:
Repetition:
AI excels at routine, high-volume tasks like legal research, preliminary document drafting, and e-discovery.
Recommended use: Automating repetitive, low-stakes legal tasks to boost efficiency.
Risk:
AI is unsuitable for high-risk scenarios, especially involving novel legal arguments, strategic client advice, or highly confidential matters.
Recommended use: Engage human judgment exclusively in high-stakes or nuanced legal decisions.
Regulation:
Adherence to data privacy, confidentiality, and professional conduct standards is paramount.
Recommended use: Carefully vet AI solutions and ensure compliance with local regulations and professional ethical guidelines.
Reviewability:
Lawyers must maintain transparency and accountability for AI-generated outcomes.
Recommended use: Implement robust oversight, documentation, and the ability to explain and justify AI-driven processes and outputs.
Why It Matters for Lawyers
Enhance, don’t replace judgment: The framework safeguards against overreliance and preserves professional expertise.
Ethical obligations remain: Confidentiality, competency, and candor are non-negotiable—even when using AI.
Practical governance: Firms need clear policies, oversight mechanisms, and staff training aligned with the 4R principles.
The Importance of the 4R Framework in Legal Practice
The framework emphasizes that while AI can significantly enhance legal productivity, it must never replace essential human judgment and ethical responsibilities:
Preserving Ethical Standards: AI must align with confidentiality, competency, and professional responsibility.
Mitigating Risk: The 4R approach ensures critical legal decisions aren't compromised by reliance on potentially flawed AI outcomes.
Fostering Responsible Innovation: Encourages law firms to innovate responsibly by clearly defining AI usage parameters.
Practical Implementation for Law Firms
Law firms can integrate the 4R framework effectively by:
Providing Comprehensive Training: Regular education on AI tools, ethical implications, and practical applications.
Establishing Clear Policies: Developing firm-wide guidelines outlining permissible AI usage, oversight processes, and accountability.
Ensuring Mandatory Human Oversight: Always involving qualified legal professionals in the final review and approval of AI-generated work.
Best Practices to Implement the 4Rs
R | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
Repetition | Automate low-risk tasks | Free up time and save costs |
Risk | Flag high-stakes matters | Protect clients and reputation |
Regulation | Vet AI vendors, review policies | Avoid compliance and data breaches |
Reviewability | Document inputs and outputs | Retain accountability and audit trails |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What exactly is the 4R Decision Framework?
A: It's a guideline provided by Singapore's Law Society to help lawyers decide when AI use is appropriate based on repetition, risk, regulation, and reviewability.
Q: Can AI completely replace lawyers?
A: No, lawyers must exercise professional judgment and oversee AI tools, especially in complex or sensitive legal scenarios.
Q: Are there ethical risks associated with AI use in law?
A: Yes, there are risks including confidentiality breaches, biased outcomes, regulatory non-compliance, and inaccuracies.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
The 4R Decision Framework provides a vital tool for navigating the intersection of technology and legal practice responsibly. How is your firm addressing the balance between innovation and ethical responsibility?
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