A lawyer in Victoria made headlines in December 2025 for the wrong reasons. He used generative AI to prepare a court submission, but the tool produced entirely fictitious case citations. The material was not properly checked before being filed. As a result, the lawyer was restricted from practising as a principal and must work under supervision for two years.
This matter is a clear reminder that while technology can assist, it cannot replace professional judgement, expertise or responsibility—particularly in legal and property work.
During a hearing on 19 July 2024, the lawyer provided a list of authorities requested by Justice Amanda Humphreys in a family law matter. When the Court reviewed the material, the cases could not be identified. The lawyer later admitted the list had been generated using AI and had not been verified.
Key outcomes:
- The lawyer issued an unconditional apology and paid costs for the vacated hearing.
- On 19 August 2025, the Victorian Legal Services Board varied his practising certificate, preventing him from acting as a principal or handling trust money.
- He is required to practise under supervision for two years and report to the Board quarterly.
- Since this incident, more than 20 Australian matters have identified AI-generated documents containing inaccurate citations.
Courts and regulators, including the Law Council of Australia, acknowledge that AI has practical benefits, but emphasise that it must be used with caution. Practitioners remain responsible for verifying all content. Courts are particularly concerned about fabricated authorities, although a blanket ban on AI is neither practical nor desirable.
The broader lesson for property professionals is straightforward: while platforms such as PEXA streamline transactions, human oversight remains essential to verify documents, protect clients and ensure legal compliance.
Flash Conveyancing advice:
Always review contracts and documents carefully, even where technology has assisted in their preparation. Proper verification reduces risk, protects your interests and prevents costly errors.
Flash Conveyancing, led by Julian and Renee, delivers tailored support across property transactions throughout New South Wales. With hands-on experience navigating councils such as Blacktown, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, The Hills, Hornsby and Parramatta, they focus on clarity, precision and proactive risk management at every stage of the process. Whether you’re securing a purchase or finalising a sale in Acacia Gardens, Marsden Park, Stanhope Gardens or North Kellyville, their approach is built on getting the details right the first time—so your settlement proceeds without uncertainty or delay.