In an era where legal practice and technology increasingly intertwine, Cleveland State University Law School, in collaboration with AltaClaro, has announced a groundbreaking course that aims to bridge the gap between generative AI (GenAI) tools and legal training. The course, titled "Fundamentals of Prompt Engineering for Lawyers," is designed to equip law students with the necessary skills to effectively and ethically utilize GenAI in their future legal careers.

The course will be offered as an extracurricular program three times during the academic year, reflecting a strong interest with over 130 students enrolled within the first week of its announcement. Students who complete the course will receive a certificate, enhancing their appeal in a competitive job market increasingly driven by technological competence.

Brian Ray, Co-Interim Dean at CSU College of Law, emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative, stating, "Our goal is for employers to know that CSU|LAW graduates are entering the profession prepared to use these powerful tools thoughtfully, ethically, and competently."

AltaClaro’s unique approach to legal training involves a three-step process: foundational knowledge, hands-on practice, and interactive review sessions with experts. This method is designed to ensure that students not only learn about GenAI tools but also gain practical experience and feedback, which are crucial for mastering new technologies in legal settings.

However, the introduction of such courses raises several critical questions. The optional nature of the course prompts a debate on whether GenAI training should be mandatory, given its growing significance in legal practice. Additionally, the course’s ability to foster critical thinking and real-world application remains a point of discussion.

Despite these concerns, the initiative is a positive step toward addressing the urgent need for tech-savvy legal professionals. Law firms and legal systems are already grappling with the challenges posed by GenAI, such as the generation of inaccurate legal documents and the reliance on inexperienced lawyers for technological tasks. By providing structured training in GenAI, Cleveland State is positioning its students to not only enhance their own careers but also to contribute positively to the evolving landscape of legal practice.

As the legal profession continues to evolve, the integration of systematic GenAI training in law school curriculums seems not just beneficial, but necessary. The question remains not if, but how quickly other institutions will follow in Cleveland State’s footsteps to prepare the next generation of lawyers for a technologically advanced legal environment.