AI-policy

De Bont Advocaten AI Policy
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken off in recent years. De Bont Advocaten is committed to keeping pace with and investing in this technological development. Within the legal profession as well, the use of these tools can (in the long run) lead to cost savings and may contribute to quality in certain areas. At De Bont Advocaten, “human work” remains the guiding principle. This policy outlines the principles, conditions, and responsibilities for the use of AI within our firm. The policy has been drafted in accordance with the recommendations of the Netherlands Bar Association (NOvA) and aims to safeguard client interests and the core values of the legal profession.

1. Purpose and Scope
This policy applies to all attorneys, legal staff, and other individuals who, under the responsibility of De Bont Advocaten, perform work involving the use of AI tools. AI is used exclusively as a supportive tool and never as a substitute for the attorney’s professional judgment.

2. Definition of AI
AI is defined as: software or systems that recognize patterns based on data and generate (partially) autonomous output, such as text, analyses, or summaries.

3. Permitted Use
AI tools are used exclusively for support tasks, such as structuring information, summarizing public sources, and translating documents. AI output is never adopted without verification.

4. Prohibited Use
Entering confidential client data into public or AI tools not approved by the firm is not permitted. AI is not used for independent legal judgment or strategic decision-making.

5. Responsibility
The attorney remains fully responsible at all times for the content, quality, and accuracy of the legal work. The use of AI does not affect this responsibility.

6. Client Consent
In our engagement letter, we have included a provision stating that by signing, you grant consent for the use of AI in our services. You may always notify us that you do not (or no longer) consent to the use of AI in your case.

7. Confidentiality and Data Protection
When using AI, the GDPR, professional confidentiality, and internal security guidelines are strictly adhered to. De Bont Advocaten uses only AI tools for which appropriate contractual and technical safeguards apply.

8. Training and Awareness
De Bont Advocaten ensures that attorneys and staff have a basic understanding of and awareness regarding AI. New employees are instructed on this AI policy, and developments regarding AI are discussed with all employees annually.

9. Final Provision
This AI policy applies to all cases pending at De Bont Advocaten. The provisions of Article 6 take effect on May 1, 2026.
However, existing clients may also notify us if they wish to have AI use discontinued in their case. For questions regarding our AI policy, please contact the attorneys handling your case or submit your inquiry via info@debontadvocaten.nl.