Introduction
At RPC (the Firm) we are committed to making informed and responsible choices in the use of authorised Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). We recognise the potential AI has to offer in increased efficiencies, improvements on decision making and a range of other benefits available to enhance the client experience.
The value of an AI Governance Framework
As a global law Firm, we are dedicated to fostering innovation while complying with our legal and regulatory obligations in working to maintain our professional and ethical standards in the use of AI.
This AI Governance Framework underpins the basis upon which we as a Firm will operate when leveraging the benefits of AI. This Framework is the cornerstone of our approach and seeks to set the tone for our on-going accountability.
Underpinning this Framework are a series of policies, processes and stakeholder input to reassure our clients of our commitment to the safe and ethical implementation of AI at RPC.
Policies and processes that underpin our framework
This includes the following:
- Guiding principles: as set out below.
- Governance structure: to include an AI Executive Committee to oversee all AI related activities and which is accountable to the Board. Sub committees to include representatives from key areas of IT & Systems Implementation, Knowledge Expertise, Risk Management and Information Security, Change Management and Content Marketing.
- Policies and know how: to include an AI User Policy highlighting various guardrails and guidance to the Firm on the safe and a detailed Security Risk Management Framework.
- Training and education: to include mandatory training to all staff.
- Continuous improvement: to include periodic on-going monitoring, policy reviews and technology refresh.
RPC has defined a set of principles that will be adhered to consistently in our use of AI, which guides all RPC users on its safe and effective use. These principles sit within our wider AI Framework and compliment associated policies, procedures and guidance.
The Principles
01. Integrity and responsible use
Any RPC person that uses AI must successfully complete training which addresses the Firm’s requirements for responsible and ethical use of AI, which incorporates the requirements of adhering to our applicable legal and regulatory obligations that govern our work.
02. Collaborative and transparent
Explainability, honesty and transparency on our use of AI is paramount in providing legal services in an engaging and fair way. We aim to be transparent with our clients and employees on our use of AI.
03. Confidentiality, security and robustness
Privacy, security and data protection are all embedded in our AI Framework, policies and approach adopted by the Firm and individual users in its use of AI. Our rigorous due diligence and security assessments aim to address risk and best practice which must be satisfied and approved, with ongoing assessment to apply throughout the AI life cycle in developing/building AI use. All suppliers will be subject to confidentiality and data protection obligations.
04. Accountability and governance
All AI use must operate and be used in accordance with the Firm’s documented AI Framework, policies and procedures which designate roles and responsibilities and must be reviewed periodically. We remain accountable for the accuracy our work and advice and understand the importance of knowing the limitations of AI, therefore always ensuring appropriate human oversight of any AI decision-making at the right stages.
05. Alignment with strategic goals and objectives
We are selective about our use of AI systems and use cases must align to the Firm’s broader strategic goals and objectives, our legal and regulatory obligations and the AI Framework to include these Principles. Any use case will be subject to review by our independent steering group who will assess any application against these criteria before making a recommendation.
06. Correct and proper use
We will always ensure we are using AI systems correctly and in a thoughtful way to select the right tool for the job. We respect the limitations that AI systems can have and appreciate that some systems will not be appropriate for certain tasks, which will be determined as part of the due diligence process.
Our AI Principles and Framework will be kept under review with changes being made to reflect developments in law and regulatory guidance.