Artificial intelligence could make legal research faster and legal services more accessible, but its use must be accompanied by human oversight, accountability and the protection of constitutional rights, speakers told a conference informed by the work of LexisNexis South Africa.
These were among the issues explored at the inaugural Future of Law Conference in Sandton on 3 November 2026. Convened by TopCo Media and informed by the thought leadership of LexisNexis South Africa, the conference brought together legal professionals, academics, business leaders and technology experts to consider how the law must respond to a changing society.
Attorney and former Mpumalanga premier Dr Mathews Phosa and LexisNexis South Africa CEO Ian Andrews were among the keynote speakers.
LexisNexis South Africa CEO on trust and technology
Andrews said trust in institutions and technology was central to the discussion about the future of law.
Artificial intelligence, he said, was creating opportunities to improve speed and productivity, while raising questions about the skills legal professionals would need and how the risks associated with new tools should be managed.
He also highlighted the importance of human skills and oversight, as well as the need to ensure that technology is fair, open and accessible.
According to Andrews, the way the law develops affects more than the legal profession. It also shapes the economy, investor confidence and how individuals and communities experience their rights.
Human judgment must remain central
Phosa said that, despite technological change, the law must continue to protect human dignity and serve justice.
AI could improve legal research, speed up court processes and make legal information more accessible, he said. This could be particularly valuable in South Africa, where many people struggle to afford legal representation.
However, he warned that AI can produce incorrect information, perpetuate historical discrimination and put confidential information at risk.
Phosa identified five principles for the responsible use of AI in the legal system:
- Accountability: People must remain responsible for decisions affecting the rights and freedoms of others.
- Verification: Information generated by AI must be checked and validated.
- Confidentiality: Personal information and privileged communications must be protected.
- Fairness: People affected by automated decisions must have an opportunity to challenge them and seek appropriate remedies.
- Inclusion: Technology must serve South Africans regardless of their financial circumstances, language, location or digital skills.
Access to justice in a digital society
Online courts, virtual consultations and digital legal services could help reduce costs and delays, Phosa said.
He cautioned, however, that modernisation must not create new barriers for people who lack reliable internet, access to technology or the skills to use digital services.
A person living in a rural community should enjoy the same constitutional protection as someone in a major city, he said. Vulnerable citizens should also not be excluded from justice because of limited financial resources or digital access.
Phosa described the protection of personal information and cybersecurity as matters of governance and public trust. Legislation provides safeguards, but institutions must also manage information responsibly and give people meaningful ways to challenge unlawful or unfair decisions.
Legal information and notices online
The growing availability of legal information on digital platforms forms part of the broader conversation about access to justice.
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The Future of Law Conference also considered how the legal profession, businesses and public institutions can adapt to new technology while protecting South Africa’s constitutional values.
