News & Updates
LMICK Welcomes Two New Members to its Board of Directors
Matthew P. Cook and Zoe Jessie will be joining LMICK’s Board of Directors in September. Mr. Cook is a litigation partner at Kerrick Bachert, PSC located in Bowling Green, KY. His areas of practice are Insurance Defense, Employment Law, Municipal Law, and Medical Malpractice. Mr. Cook comes to LMICK’s Board in his capacity as the KBA’s President-Elect. Ms. Jessie is a graduate of the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law and serves as the YLD representative on LMICK’s Board. Welcome to LMICK’s Board Matt and Zoe! We appreciate you both sharing your time and talent with us.
LMICK would also like to thank its outgoing Board members, Fletcher Schrock, and Kyle Bunnell. Both Mr. Schrock and Mr. Bunnell served LMICK’s Board with distinction and LMICK thanks them for their service.
Emma Lyons is LMICK’s new Office Manager. Emma was born and raised in Belgium, and she speaks Dutch/Flemish and French in addition to English. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, gardening, puzzling, baking bread and giving back to the community through fostering and volunteering. She lives with her husband, their two energetic sons and two cats, and loves spending quality time with her family. Welcome, Emma!
Practice Management
Authorized Intelligence: Defining AI’s Role in the Law Office
As part of LMICK’s continued AI series, this month LMICK discusses “Authorized Use Policies” (“AUP”) for using AI within your office, and why they are important to have and implement. An AUP for AI in a law firm setting provides crucial structure and risk management parameters. As Lawyers Mutual has discussed in earlier LMICK Minute Issues, law partners and supervising attorneys are responsible for the conduct of the law firm’s employees and subordinates. They are also charged with ensuring that the Rules of Professional Conduct are adhered to by everyone. See SCR 3.130 (5.1), (5.2), and (5.3). These supervisory duties extend to AI and how your firms integrate and use this technology within your firms.
Some of the key benefits of an AI AUP are:
- Risk Mitigation and Compliance
- Protects confidentiality: Prevents unauthorized disclosure of client data to AI tools.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to ABA and KBA Model Rules, data privacy laws (HIPAA, etc.)
- Limits malpractice risks: Reduces the chances of inaccurate or AI-generated errors influencing legal advice or filings.
- Clear Guidelines for Usage
- Clarifies who can use AI, for what purposes, and how.
- Sets boundaries (e.g., drafting memos vs. analyzing confidential case files).
- Avoids unauthorized or rogue use of generative AI tools.
- Preserves Ethical Obligations
- Reinforces duties of competence (SCR 3.130 (1.1)), confidentiality (1.6), and supervision under professional conduct rules (5.1), (5.2), and (5.3).
- Encourages proper human review and oversight of AI-generated content.
- Supports Efficiency with Accountability
- Encourages smart use of AI (e.g., automating document review, legal research) while ensuring lawyers remain accountable.
- Balances innovation with quality control.
- Training and Awareness
- Helps staff and attorneys understand what AI can and can’t do.
- Encourages continuous learning and promotes a responsible AI culture in the firm.
For your reference, here is a sample AUP (generated with the assistance of ChatGPT) for AI usage in a law firm setting. It is tailored to address ethical, professional, and practical concerns relevant to attorneys, staff, and legal support personnel:
[Law Firm Name]
Acceptable Use Policy for Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Effective Date: [Insert Date]
Last Updated: [Insert Date]
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the responsible, ethical, and secure use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies at [Law Firm Name]. This policy ensures that AI tools are used in a manner that upholds our firm’s professional standards, client confidentiality, and applicable legal and ethical obligations.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all attorneys, staff, contractors, interns, and other authorized users who access or use AI tools, whether developed internally or provided by third parties, in the course of work at [Law Firm Name].
3. Permissible Uses of AI
AI may be used to support the following tasks, provided all ethical and security standards are maintained:
- Legal research assistance
- Drafting standard or preliminary legal documents
- Summarizing case law, contracts, or deposition transcripts
- Organizing and managing data
- Automating administrative or operational processes
- Enhancing client service tools (e.g., chatbots, scheduling assistants)
4. Prohibited Uses of AI
The following uses of AI are strictly prohibited:
- Relying solely on AI for legal advice or final legal opinions
- Inputting confidential or privileged information into non-secure or public AI systems
- Using AI to impersonate clients, attorneys, or other individuals
- Employing AI to conduct surveillance, harassment, or discrimination
- Using AI to create or spread misinformation or deceptive content
- Violating any laws, court rules, or ethical obligations, including those related to client confidentiality, advertising, or the unauthorized practice of law
5. Confidentiality & Data Security
- AI tools must be vetted and approved by the firm’s IT and compliance teams before use.
- Users must not input client names, case numbers, or other sensitive identifying information into public or unsecured AI tools.
- Only firm-approved AI platforms with sufficient data protection and compliance assurances (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, ABA guidelines) may be used for client work.
6. Human Oversight
- All work product generated or assisted by AI must be reviewed, verified, and approved by a licensed attorney before being shared with clients, courts, or third parties.
- Users are responsible for understanding the limitations, potential biases, and accuracy risks of the AI tools they use.
7. Training and Compliance
- All users must complete annual training on responsible AI use, confidentiality obligations, and cybersecurity awareness.
- Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including termination or revocation of system access.
8. Reporting Misuse
If you suspect or become aware of AI misuse, data breaches, or ethical violations, promptly report the incident to the Managing Partner or the firm's Compliance Officer.
9. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect technological developments, regulatory changes, and industry best practices.
As mentioned above, this sample AUP was generated with the assistance of ChatGPT. This sample may be used in your own firm, or you may wish to revise it, with or without the assistance of AI, to fit your office’s current or expected integration of AI into your daily practice.
Questions? Contact
Rule 1.1, Comment (7): Competence and Mental Health
SCR 3.130 1.1 states, “A lawyer shall provide competent representation to a client. Competent representation requires the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness and preparation reasonably necessary for the representation.” Competent representation is critical and by having the requisite competency, you can avoid possibly violating other Rules. Fortunately, the Supreme Court has provided commentary to this Rule which provides guidance on how to conform to your conduct and make sure that you are providing competent representation.
However, many of our readers and audience members that we’ve met while traveling the state are unaware that there is a relatively new Comment, Comment (7), of which attorneys must be made aware. Comment (7) states:
“Lawyers should be aware that their mental, emotional, and physical well-being may impact their ability to represent client and, as such, is an important aspect of maintaining competence to practice law. Confidential resources supporting lawyer well-being are available through the Kentucky Lawyer Assistance Program. Other Rules that may be relevant include those addressing declining or terminating representation, supervisory duties, and reporting obligations. See Rule 1.16(a)(2), 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, and 5.8.”
Accordingly, as Comment (7) says, mental health is now considered an ethical concern in your daily practice. Being mentally and emotionally well isn't a luxury—it's an important tool in helping you discharge the duties owed to your clients. An attorney who is unwell will struggle to provide competent and diligent representation to their client. So, taking care of yourself is a critical risk mitigation tool. With that in mind, there are some simple, practical ways attorneys can help ensure their mental and emotional well-being is strong enough to provide competent representation.
Mental and Emotional Health Checklist
- Set Realistic Boundaries
- Limit after-hours work communications unless urgent.
- Schedule protected time for breaks, meals, and family/personal life.
- Take Regular Breaks
- Use the Pomodoro Technique (breaking work time into intervals) or similar methods to avoid burnout.
- Step away from the desk for brief walks, fresh air, or stretching.
- Check in With Yourself
- Ask: Am I overly stressed, irritable, or exhausted?
- Use tools like journaling and mindfulness apps.
- Talk to Someone
- Connect regularly with peers, mentors, or support groups.
- Seek therapy or counseling early, not just in crisis.
- Talk to KYLAP.
- Use Your Firm’s Resources
- Many law firms offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or mental health benefits – take advantage of them.
- Participate in well-being initiatives or mental health CLEs.
- Practice Mindfulness or Mediation
- Even 5 minutes a day of deep breathing or mindfulness can reduce anxiety and improve focus.
- Keep a Healthy Routine
- Aim for consistent sleep, nutrition, and physical activity.
- Avoid over-reliance on caffeine, alcohol, or other substances.
- Know when to Pause or Delegate
- If you’re overwhelmed, it’s OK to delegate or request help.
- Recognizing your limits is part of being a competent professional.
Questions? Contact
Civil Court Bonds Available Through LMICK
LMICK offers civil court bonds through The Bar Plan. Civil court bonds play a crucial role in the legal system by offering financial assurance to protect parties involved in litigation. Whether you're a plaintiff seeking a court order or a defendant challenging a ruling, civil court bonds can be required by the court to ensure fairness, accountability, and compliance.
To find out more information about bonds offered through LMICK, you may click here: https://lmia.onlinecourtbonds.com/.
Questions? Contact
Lawyer Well-Being
“Deskercises” and Stretches
For lawyers seeking easy ways to incorporate movement and stress relief into their workday, here are some exercises that can help burn calories, promote decompression, and improve overall well-being:
- Neck and shoulder rolls: Sit or stand with a straight back and gently roll your shoulders forward and then backward.
- Arm strength: Perform desk push-ups by placing your hands on the edge of the desk, stepping back slightly, and doing modified push-ups. You can also do seated arm raises using a full water bottle for light weights.
- Wrist stretches: Make a fist and rotate your wrists clockwise and counterclockwise to relieve tension from typing and writing.
- Abdominal stretches: Sit on the edge of your chair, place your hands behind your head, and twist your torso to the left and right for 20 repetitions.
- Leg extensions: While seated, extend one leg straight out and hold for a few seconds, then lower it. Repeat on the other side for 10-15 repetitions per leg.
- Calf raises: Stand up and raise your heels a few inches off the ground, hold, and then slowly lower. Repeat this exercise while standing at your desk, holding on for balance if needed.
- Chair squats: Stand in front of your chair, bend your knees, and lower your hips as if to sit, but stop just above the seat before standing back up. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.
- Hip flexor stretch: From a standing position, take one leg back a few feet, bend both knees in a lunge position, and lower your hips until you feel a stretch in the front of the hip. Hold for 10-30 seconds, then switch legs.
Movement and Mindfulness
- Take the stairs: Opt for the stairs instead of the elevator to add low-impact cardio throughout the day.
- Walk to a coworker's desk: Instead of emailing, walk over to discuss things in person.
- Walking meetings: If appropriate, suggest walking meetings to combine productivity with physical activity.
- Breathing exercises: Take deep breaths to calm your nerves and refocus your mind.
- Mini-meditation: Take short breaks to close your eyes, focus on your breathing, or visualize a peaceful scene.
- Listen to calming music: If your workplace allows, listen to soothing music to decrease feelings of anxiety.
Important Considerations
- Listen to your body and avoid any exercises that cause pain.
- Consult with a medical professional or physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or injuries.
- Maintain proper posture while doing desk exercises to maximize benefits and avoid strain.
- Combine these exercises with a balanced diet and adequate hydration for optimal results.
- By incorporating these simple exercises and mindfulness practices throughout the day, lawyers can proactively manage stress, improve their physical health, and enhance their overall well-being.
Questions? Contact
Know That Help is Always Available
If you are struggling with grief, sadness, anxiety, or any other emotion or stressor that is negatively impacting your daily life, please reach out for help. All Kentucky lawyers are eligible for four free visits with a mental health professional through the Kentucky Lawyers Assistance Program. For more information about the variety of confidential resources KYLAP offers, please visit www.KYLAP.org.
Upcoming Events
We look forward to seeing you!
We are proud to support the organizations that support you and your work! We will be out and about this winter, leading CLEs and sponsoring events. We hope you can join us at one of these currently scheduled events (and make sure to come say hello)!
August 27-29: Joint KDC/TDLA Conference, Nashville
August 28: Kentucky Law Update, Owensboro
September 4: Kentucky Law Update, Covington
September 17-19: KJA Conference, French Lick, IN
September 18: Kentucky Law Update, Ashland
September 21: LBA Pickleball, Louisville
September 24: NKBA CLE, Zoom
September 25: Kentucky Law Update, Paducah
October 9: Kentucky Law Update, London
October 23: Kentucky Law Update, Lexington
We want to hear from you! Have a CLE topic you would like to see? Send suggestions to
Need a CLE Speaker in 2025? We would love to speak to your group this year! You can check out our updated list of available topics and request to schedule, here.