Overruled: Why AI Should Never Be Your Lawyer

What Recent Court Cases Reveal About the Limits of AI in Legal Matters 

In early 2024, the Missouri Court of Appeals issued a decision that quickly made national news. In Kruse v. Karlen, 692 S.W.3d 43 (Mo. Ct. App. 2024), a pro se (self-represented) individual filed an appellate brief relying on what looked like legitimate legal authority, including quotes, case names, citations…everything. But it was fake. The “cases” had been fabricated by an artificial intelligence. 

The court dismissed the appeal outright and imposed $10,000 in sanctions. The judges were blunt: courts cannot, and will not, accept filings created by AI without legal expertise and verification by a human, licensed attorney or otherwise. It has happened in Oklahoma as well. 

In Mattox v. Product Innovations Research USA (Case No. 6:24-cv-235-JAR; E.D. Okla., Oct 22 2025), Judge Timothy DeGiusti confronted a violation on a scale that frankly, would never have happened before there was AI.  In Mattox AI created 2 citations that were either false or misleading; 3 actual authorities that were either misquoted or taken out of context; and at least 7; yes 7 cases that simply did not exist. Judge DeGiusti ordered the pleadings stricken and the plaintiffs pay the defendant over $11,700 for their attorney fees…and all before the first witness would take the stand.  

The problem was not with the AI. The problem was with the lawyer; a lawyer that should have known better.  As Mattox tells us: AI cannot replace a lawyer. Trusting it to do so can put your case, your rights, your future, and your money in jeopardy.   

At Ball Morse Lowe, we know how overwhelming legal challenges can feel. But cutting corners, especially with tools not equipped to give legal advice, can do far more harm than good. 

AI Can Inform. It Cannot Protect 

Many people turn to AI because it feels easy and inexpensive. But it is important to remember when you rely on AI alone, you are relying on a tool that: 

• Does not understand your situation 

• Does not create an attorney/client relationship 

• Does not owe you confidentiality or loyalty 

• Cannot appear in court or stand behind its advice 

Nothing you type into an AI chatbot is protected by attorney/client privilege. And if the AI misunderstands your facts or gives incorrect guidance, you are the one who will bear the consequences, not Chat GPT or other software developer. 

AI Often Gets the Law Wrong, And That Can Cost You 

Part of the reason Kruse v. Karlen made national headlines is because the problem is so common. Generative AI tools frequently: 

• Invent case law 

• Mishmash laws from different states 

• Generate incorrect deadlines 

• Misstate procedural requirements 

• Use language that harms a litigant’s credibility 

These tools generate text that sounds accurate, not necessarily text that is accurate. And when you are dealing with something as important as your family, your money, or your freedom, “sounding right” simply is not good enough. 

Oklahoma Courts Expect Accuracy From Everyone 

Whether represented by counsel or not, Oklahoma courts require filings to meet strict procedural and substantive standards. Oklahoma judges have already begun issuing guidance on the use of AI in legal documents. Attorneys must verify the accuracy of anything produced by AI, and self-represented litigants are held to similar standards. 

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma has issued a standing order with specific mandates for any party using generative AI in court filings.  

• Disclosure and Certification: Any document prepared using a generative AI tool must disclose the specific tool used. 

• Accuracy Verification: The attorney or unrepresented party must certify they have checked the accuracy of any AI-drafted portion, including all citations and legal authority.  

• Responsibility and Sanctions: The individual filing the document is held fully responsible for its contents. Failure to disclose or certify accuracy may result in sanctions. 

If AI leads you to file something that is incomplete, incorrect, or misleading, whether intentionally or not, the judge will hold YOU responsible.  As Kruse & Mattox demonstrate, courts impose real consequences when litigants rely on AI-generated errors. 

Legal Issues Require Judgment, Not Just Information 

While AI tools can summarize concepts, they cannot provide the judgment, strategy or nuance a real case requires. 

Legal matters often involve: 

• Protecting children and parental rights 

• Navigating major business decisions 

• Addressing property and financial disputes 

• Responding to criminal accusations 

• Managing emotionally difficult family circumstances 

These are not situations where one should trust their future to generic answers or automated guesses. You deserve thoughtful guidance, a clear plan, and someone who knows how Oklahoma courts actually operate. 

AI Is a Helpful Tool for Lawyers, Not Instead of Lawyers 

At Ball Morse Lowe, we use technology to work more efficiently for our clients, but never at the expense of accuracy or professionalism. AI can assist with rote tasks, research, and organization, but every strategy, pleading, and piece of advice is reviewed, verified, and tailored by an experienced attorney who understands both the client and the law. 

AI may speed up tasks, which is a good thing.  At Ball Morse Lowe, we are actively implementing AI to handle generic tasks to reduce billable time, thus reducing the client’s bill. But AI can never replace thoughtful, nuanced, and experienced human judgment required to safeguard your rights and advocate for your interests. 

If It Really Matters, Get Real Legal Counsel

The cautionary tales from Kruse & Mattox are reminders that when legal issues arise, shortcuts can be costly. AI is a powerful tool, but it cannot guide you through the Oklahoma legal system or protect you from the consequences of incorrect information. 

At Ball Morse Lowe, we are here to help you understand your options, make informed decisions, and move forward with confidence. 

If you need guidance, we’re ready to help. Contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney who always puts your interests first.