Do I need a client's consent to put their info into an AI tool?

Under Opinion 512 and MR 1.6, if entering client information into an AI tool creates a meaningful risk of disclosure — for instance a tool that uses inputs for training or lacks confidentiality protections — informed client consent is generally required; a…

register 09 · Compliance pins· ABA Formal Op. 512
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Answer.

Evidence / professional-responsibility rule · ABA Formal Op. 512.

Under Opinion 512 and MR 1.6, if entering client information into an AI tool creates a meaningful risk of disclosure — for instance a tool that uses inputs for training or lacks confidentiality protections — informed client consent is generally required; a closed, confidential tool may lower that bar, but the lawyer must evaluate it. The duty is to assess and, where needed, obtain consent. Planisphere measures tool behaviour, not your confidentiality posture, and provides no legal advice.

Cite-anchor: ABA Formal Opinion 512 — Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools · Formal Opinion 512 (2024-07-29); Model Rules 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 3.1/3.3, 5.1/5.3

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The mark behind the answer.

ABA Formal Op. 512 sets the bar an AI output must clear before a tribunal or a client relies on it — reliability, candor…

generative-AI duties · competence · confidentiality · candor · supervision.

→ Full reference for ABA Formal Op. 512

Prepare evidence for ABA Formal Op. 512 review.

First evidence record within 21 days of access · re-runs in a single business day. Planisphere measures model behaviour and emits a reproducible, sha-pinned record — it does not certify, file, or give legal advice.