This course explores the intersection of legal writing and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools such as large language models (LLMs). Students will learn about the capabilities and limitations of tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Google Bard, and the ethical implications of their use in legal writing.

Students will gain hands-on experience using and fine-tuning prompts to engage GenAI tools in drafting a series of short legal documents like contracts, client alerts/blogs, pleadings, discovery requests, privilege logs, demand/meet-and-confer letters, professional emails, and motions to compel discovery. Further, students will explore the concept of “writer identity formation” as part of their professional identity formation at NYLS. Students will practice giving and receiving peer-to-peer feedback on written work. Assessments in this course will focus on process rather than product, empowering students to develop a sound personalized research/writing/editing system. Students will engage in self-reflection throughout the course. Students also will have opportunities to practice public speaking through class participation and end-of-semester presentations. Over the course of the semester, students will compile an individualized portfolio of written work as part of building their NYLS-branded writer identity.

This course satisfies the Writing Requirement. It does not satisfy the Experiential Learning Requirement. Enrollment is limited.

Recommended for the following Professional Pathways: Business and Financial Services; Intellectual Property and Privacy; Government and Public Interest Law.

3 credits