News & Updates
New Lawyer Swearing In
Please join LMICK in congratulating and welcoming all the lawyers who will be sworn in on October 17, 2025! Lawyers Mutual welcomes each newly admitted attorney and wishes them the best in their future endeavors. LMICK would also like to remind you that if an attorney who was just sworn in is joining your firm, they need to be added to your LMICK policy. To add an attorney, you may click here.
New Jefferson County Court Facilities Fee
Following an ordinance recently passed by the Louisville Metro Council, court costs and filing fees in Jefferson County will soon be increasing. Beginning November 1, 2025, a Court Facilities Fee will be implemented. The new charges, which range from $10 to $25, apply to both Circuit and District court cases. The specific fee increases include:
- Circuit Civil cases: The filing fee will increase by $25. This also includes a $25 additional filing fee for appeals to the Court of Appeals.
- Circuit Criminal cases: Court costs will increase by $25.
- District Civil cases: The filing fee will increase by $10.
- District Criminal cases: Court costs will increase by $10 for traffic and misdemeanor cases.
The new Court Facilities Fee will be automatically applied to court costs and civil filing fees when either efiled or conventionally filed starting November 1st.
Practice Management
Reality Check: How Courts Are Confronting AI Hallucinations
As part of LMICK’s continued AI series, this month LMICK wants to explore how various courts across the country are handling AI hallucinations in court filings. In prior LMICK Minute Issues, we’ve discussed the importance of checking and double-checking any citations that AI generates and provides as the citation may be incorrect or the citation itself may point to a non-existent case or authority. These fabricated citations, misquoted authorities, and non-existent cases generated by AI tools have led to real-world consequences for attorneys and litigants alike.
The law firm of Ropes & Gray has created an interactive database of “Standing Orders, Local Rules, and Decisions of the Use of AI” for the majority of states. This database contains information concerning how both Federal and state courts have been handling parties and litigants who have been misusing AI. For Kentucky, the database discusses Buckner v. Hilton Glob., 2025 WL 1725426 (W.D. KY, June 20, 2025), in which the pro se plaintiff sought to have the judge recused and “chastised the Court for commenting on [his] citation to nonexistent caselaw” in its prior opinion (where the court previously warned the plaintiff that his pro se status “will not be tolerated as an excuse for citing nonexistent case law,” 2025 WL 890175, at *15 (W.D. Ky. Mar. 21, 2025)). Judge Michael J. Buckner, Jr. addressed the plaintiff’s critique, holding that although courts are to “construe filings by pro se litigants liberally,” the court nonetheless has an “obligation to prevent fraud on the court from misuse of [AI],” such as through the inclusion of hallucinated cases in court filings. The court further likened the use of AI to draft legal filings to “ghostwriting,” which “‘evades the requirements’ of Rule 11” and “creates serious concerns for maintaining candor to the Court.” The court concluded that the plaintiff’s “citation to nonexistent case law . . . directly violates his duty of candor,” wastes the time and money of both opposing counsel and the court, and is not a proper basis for recusal.
In Ohio, in Smith v. Gamble, 2025 Ohio App. LEXIS 2317 (Ohio App. Ct., July 7, 2025), the appellant moved to strike the appellee’s brief for including “phantom cases and inappropriate, inaccurate citations” in violation of Rule 11 of the court’s Local Rules (which require parties to submit accurate legal authority). Although the court declined to strike the brief, as the arguments asserted in the brief were necessary to address the appellant’s claims on the merits, Judge Piper concluded that the pro se appellee in fact cited to hallucinated authority and granted the appellant’s motion for sanctions, ordering the appellee to pay attorney’s fees, expenses, and costs associated with the search for the non-existent authority.
In Indiana, in Mid Cent. Operating Eng’rs Health v. Hoosiervac LLC, 2025 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 100748 (S.D. IN, May 28, 2025), the magistrate judge recommended that the defendant’s attorney be sanctioned $15,000 for submitting three briefs with false citations. The attorney claimed this penalty was inappropriate given the “‘significant and irreversible harm to [his] professional reputation’” that he has faced since the original order to show cause was issued. Judge Hanlon ultimately reduced the sanction to $6,000 based on the attorney’s attendance at continuing education programs on the “responsible use of AI” and “adhere[nce] to ‘the highest standards of professional conduct moving forward.’” The court noted that the sanction was still substantial given the repeated use of AI-generated citations and the fact that attorneys in other cases continue to cite to non-existent authorities.
Also in Indiana, in Parrish v. Miller, 2025 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 137247 (S.D. Ind., July 18, 2025), the plaintiffs included various hallucinated citations in support of their motion for reconsideration. Although the use of AI was not part of the court’s reasoning for denying the plaintiffs’ motion, the court warned that it has “recently admonished and sanctioned parties for submitting briefs containing miscited or non-existent cases.”
In Arizona, in Mavy v. Comm’r of Soc. Sec. Admin., 2025 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 157358 (D. Ariz. Aug. 14, 2025), the plaintiff’s attorney retained an “attorney contract writer” to draft the opening brief to the Social Security Administration. During the drafting process, the plaintiff’s firm flagged for the contract writer that courts in “every jurisdiction” are “cracking down on the use of artificial intelligence,” and the contract writer in fact acknowledged receipt of this message. However, “the majority of authorities cited [in the plaintiff’s opening brief] were either fabricated, misleading, or unsupported,” an outcome the court described as “egregious.” In response to the court’s order to show cause, the plaintiff’s attorney accepted “full responsibility for all filings submitted in this matter” and admitted that “several case citations” were inaccurate but were not knowingly included.
Instead of imposing monetary penalties, the court imposed the following sanctions as part of “deterrence”: (i) removing plaintiff’s counsel’s pro hac vice status; (ii) striking the plaintiff’s opening brief; (iii) serving a copy of this order on the plaintiff and affording plaintiff the ability to self-represent or retain new counsel; (iv) writing letters to the three judges “to whom [plaintiff’s counsel] attributed fictitious cases”; (v) requiring plaintiff’s attorney to send a copy of this order to every judge assigned to any case in which the attorney is counsel of record; and (vi) ordering the Clerk of Court to serve a copy of this order on the Washington State Bar Association. Magistrate Judge Bachus admonished plaintiff’s counsel for failing to both supervise the drafting attorney and carefully review a brief to which she affixed her signature. As a final matter, the court highlighted how plaintiff’s counsel’s attempt to identify and rectify her hallucinated citations in response to the order to show cause was erroneous, as certain hallucinated cases were not included in the “citation correction table,” and certain quoted language was improperly attributed. This, according to Magistrate Judge Bachus, fell short of attorneys’ duties of candor to the court.
The cases above should hopefully serve as a warning that hallucinations generated by AI can have detrimental effects on your case and to you. Courts are taking different approaches on how to deal with the improper usage of AI. LMICK recommends that you use caution when using AI for research and be sure to always check and double-check any citations generated by AI.
Questions? Contact
Avoiding Hidden Risks: The Dangers Attorneys Face When Performing Title and Lien Searches
LMICK has recently seen an uptick in the number of claims reported by insureds related to title and lien searches they have conducted. Performing title and lien searches is a critical part of many legal practices—particularly in real estate, probate, and transactional law. Yet, it’s also an area where even a small oversight can lead to significant professional liability. Missing a recorded lien, judgment, or encumbrance can expose an attorney to malpractice claims, client financial losses, and reputational harm. The process demands meticulous attention to detail and a firm understanding of the public record systems involved.
One of the greatest dangers attorneys face is the incomplete or inaccurate search of the title record. Errors can occur if the search is limited to the wrong name variation, fails to include prior owners, or overlooks filings in different jurisdictions. Additionally, reliance on outdated databases or third-party title reports without independent verification can lead to missed liens or encumbrances that still affect the property. Attorneys must also be alert to unrecorded interests—such as equitable claims, tax liens in process, or pending litigation—that may not yet appear in the public record.
To exercise due diligence and reduce risk exposure, attorneys can follow these key practices:
- Verify all name variations – Search under all known variations of the property owner’s name, including maiden names, business entities, and previous owners.
- Check multiple jurisdictions – If the property straddles municipal or county boundaries, or if liens may be recorded elsewhere (such as state tax offices), ensure all relevant registries are reviewed.
- Confirm recording dates and updates – Review the most current data available, and always re-check immediately before closing or final opinion issuance.
- Review supporting documentation – Do not rely solely on title summaries. Examine the original instruments to verify accuracy and completeness.
- Document your search process – Maintain detailed records of the databases used, search parameters, and results reviewed in case your diligence is later questioned.
- Consult with title professionals – When in doubt, collaborate with licensed title agents or use reputable title companies to supplement your work.
- Stay current on local recording practices – County and state recording offices may have different indexing systems or delays that affect search accuracy.
By approaching title and lien searches with the same rigor as any other legal analysis, attorneys can help safeguard their clients’ interests—and their own professional liability. The key lies in thoroughness, documentation, and the recognition that even “routine” searches demand careful, methodical attention.
Questions? Contact
NetGain Technologies: How to Spot, Identify & Recognize Phishing Emails
NetGain Technologies, a leading provider of IT services and security solutions, recently published an article that discusses phishing emails. Lawyers Mutual has discussed phishing in past LMICK Minute Issues, and how cybercriminals use this trick to enter and attack your network. LMICK recommends that you read the entire article for all the important information that the article discusses.
As the article point outs, there are ways in which you can spot a phishing email. Look for these warning signs:
- Urgent Calls to Action or Threats – Messages that say “Your account will be suspended today” or “Immediate payment required” are designed to pressure you into acting without thinking. This false urgency is a classic phishing tactic.
- Grammar, Spelling, and Formatting Errors – Professional companies rarely send emails full of mistakes. Typos, broken logos, or sloppy formatting can all point to scams.
- Generic Greetings and Unfamiliar Senders – “Dear Customer” or emails from odd addresses often indicate a phishing attempt. Always double-check the sender’s domain for authenticity.
- Suspicious Links and Attachments – Hover over links before clicking. If the URL looks strange or unrelated to the sender, don’t open it. Attachments—especially PDFs or ZIP files—are another common way malware spreads.
The article also provides a quick checklist of how you can identify phishing emails before you click on them. NetGain recommends that you do the following:
- Verify the sender’s email address and domain.
- Hover over links before clicking.
- Look for urgent language or scare tactics.
- Watch for poor grammar, odd phrasing, or unusual requests.
- Never open unexpected attachments.
- Confirm requests through another channel (e.g., call the sender directly).
NetGain also provides a checklist of what to do if you think you’ve been phished. If you’ve accidentally clicked a link or shared information act quickly and do the following:
- Disconnect from the internet to stop further data transfer.
- Reset any potentially compromised credentials immediately.
- Notify your IT team and security provider.
- Monitor bank accounts or credit card activity if financial information was shared.
- Follow your organization’s cybersecurity incident response plan. Stay tuned for a draft cybersecurity response plan in an upcoming LMICK Minute.
Swift and immediate action by you and your staff limits the damage and helps IT teams contain the breach.
Questions? Contact
Lawyer Well-Being
Fall Fitness for Attorney Well-Being: Simple Ways to Move and Refresh After Work
As autumn arrives and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time for attorneys to step outside, stretch, and focus on their well-being. Between client calls, court appearances, and long hours at the desk, finding time for exercise can seem impossible—but even brief, intentional movement can make a significant difference in both physical health and mental clarity.
Step Outside
A brisk evening walk or light jog through your neighborhood or a local park can help you decompress after a demanding day. Fall’s cooler weather and colorful scenery make it easy to enjoy 20–30 minutes of movement while letting your thoughts settle. On weekends, consider a short hike or nature walk to recharge and reconnect with your surroundings. But also remember to stay social. Plan regular coffee chats, walks or video calls with friends/family. Isolation tends to worsen seasonal mood dips, so small doses of connection help a lot.
Move Indoors
At home, short and simple routines can go a long way. Try 10-minute stretching or yoga sessions to release tension in your neck, shoulders, and lower back. A few sets of bodyweight exercises—squats, push-ups, lunges, or planks—can strengthen your body and boost energy without any equipment. Even small habits, like standing on one leg while brushing your teeth or practicing mindful breathing before bed, contribute to greater balance and focus. Also consider a light therapy lamp. A 10,000-lux light therapy box used for 20-30 minutes in the morning can be highly effective for seasonal depression.
Why It Matters
Regular movement isn’t just about fitness—it’s about sustainability in a demanding profession. Exercise helps lower stress, sharpen focus, and promote emotional resilience, allowing you to better serve clients while maintaining your own well-being.
This fall, take advantage of the season’s cooler air and slower pace to reset, move more, and invest in your health—the foundation of every successful practice.
Are You Feeling “SAD”?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (“SAD”), or seasonal depression, is very common as we transition from summer to fall, and the days shorten and get cooler. Here’s how to spot and avoid SAD before it takes hold:
How to Spot Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Changes in Mood and Energy
- Feeling unusually sad, low, or irritable as the days shorten.
- A noticeable drop in motivation or energy — even for things you normally enjoy.
- Sleep Pattern Shifts
- Sleeping more than usual but still feeling tired.
- Trouble getting out of bed or staying alert during the day.
- Cravings and Weight Changes
- Strong cravings for carbs and sugar, often leading to weight gain.
- Eating more out of comfort or boredom.
- Social Withdrawal
- Avoiding social activities or finding yourself “hibernating” more than usual.
- Turning down invitations you’d normally accept.
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Trouble focusing, making decisions, or getting through work efficiently.
If you notice several of these symptoms that come back each fall or winter, it may be SAD or a milder version often called “seasonal blues.”
How to Avoid or Minimize SAD
- Start Early with Light Exposure
- Get outside within an hour of waking — morning sunlight is powerful for your body clock.
- Consider a light therapy lamp (10,000 lux, UV-free) for 20–30 minutes each morning starting in early fall.
- Stick to a Routine
- Keep a consistent sleep and wake schedule, even on weekends.
- Eat balanced meals and avoid skipping breakfast — your body relies on rhythm and consistency in darker months.
- Exercise Regularly
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity, 3–5 times per week.
- Outdoor walks in daylight hours are ideal.
- Stay Connected
- Schedule time with friends or family — social connection protects mental health.
- Join a group, club, or volunteer project to maintain engagement.
- Check Your Vitamin D
- Low vitamin D levels can worsen seasonal mood issues. Ask your doctor about testing or supplementation.
- Use Mindfulness or Therapy Tools
- Meditation, journaling, or cognitive-behavioral strategies help manage negative thoughts.
- If symptoms persist or worsen, see a mental health professional early — SAD responds well to treatment.
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 spring, 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)!
October 17: New Lawyer Swearing In Reception, Frankfort
October 23: Kentucky Law Update, Lexington
October 26: LBA Pickleball, Louisville
October 30: NKBA Family Law Section, Covington
November 6: Kentucky Land Title, Louisville
November 18: KBF Judge Johnstone Dinner, Paducah
November 20: Kentucky Law Update, Bowling Green
December 4: Kentucky Law Update, Louisville
We want to hear from you! Have a CLE topic you would like to see? Send suggestions to
Need a CLE Speaker? We would love to speak to your group! You can check out our updated list of available topics and request to schedule, here.