Group precedent files that share the same opening words
Key facts
- Human involvement
- YellowClose supervision
- How AI is used
- Group file names whose opening clause is the same text, and quote that shared opening. Write no merged precedent and no choice of which file to keep.
- What the lawyer must review
- You decide which file remains. A merged text would be a new precedent that later lawyers may sign into a client's document, so Model Rule 1.1 and ABA Formal Opinion 512 require you to verify it. The tool only groups identical opening words. Model Rule 1.6 applies if the precedents contain information relating to a representation and the comparison tool will not keep that information confidential. Informed consent, or a confidential configuration, is required before that comparison is run. The grouping is not a statement that the clauses have the same legal effect.
- Written for / version
- United States versionUS
Who does what
| Role | What they do |
|---|---|
| Assistance | Do not begin AI assistance until the responsible lawyer has defined and confirmed its permitted scope. |
| Lawyer | Set the scope, supervise the work closely, verify every part relied on, resolve omissions and exceptions, and approve the exact output. |
Checklist
- Review operative clauses in the complete document, including definitions, cross-references, schedules and inconsistencies with the instructions.
- Confirm that the actual tool, feature and processing terms permit use of this information, including access, retention, training and disclosure conditions.
- Confirm the output against the client’s instructions and the complete relevant source material, including omissions or contradictions.
- Resolve exceptions and record the responsible lawyer’s approval of the exact output and intended use.