ChatGPT, a powerful large language model (LLM) developed by OpenAI, has the potential to revolutionize the way law students learn and research. This guide will explore the various ways ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for law students, from streamlining research and improving legal writing to enhancing learning and comprehension. If you are looking for practical tips for effectively using ChatGPT—including crafting effective prompts, evaluating output, and addressing ethical considerations—this is the guide for you!
The Law Library has a limited number of ChatGPT Plus licenses available to law students. These licenses can be checked out for a period of 30 days. Interested students should complete this form to check out a license. Note that licenses are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority granted to specific law students who attended the ChatGPT workshop in March 2025. Any questions about accessing the licenses should be directed to Ayyoub Ajmi (ajmia@umkc.edu).
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| "System 1" Tasks that ChatGPT CAN Perform | "System 2" Tasks that ChatGPT CANNOT Perform (Well) |
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"Give me some potential arguments for a breach of contract claim." (generates a list of common arguments: failure to perform, material breach, etc.) "Summarize the key facts from Palsgraf v. Long Island Railroad Co." (quickly identifies, extracts, and rephrases relevant information) "Create five multiple-choice questions about intentional torts." (produces a question and answer choices based on general knowledge) |
"Analyze the implications of Citizens United on campaign finance law, considering First Amendment principles." (requires nuanced, original analysis of the case's complex legal implications) "Will the court rule in favor of the plaintiff in this case?" (cannot accurately assess outcomes without contextual analysis of legal strategy, the judge's tendencies, and the ability to make nuanced predictions) "Draft a motion to dismiss based on Rule 12(b)(6)." (requires meticulous attention to detail, legal expertise, and the ability to tailor the document to the specific circumstances of the case) |
Are you unsure how to use the ChatGPT Plus license in a way that most benefits you? Take a look at this helpful guide that includes use cases, prompt ideas, and more:
Need ideas for what to use ChatGPT Plus for, and how to use it effectively? Look no further! Our law librarians have prepared these helpful guides to show you the possibilities.
There are a lot of other resources out there about prompt engineering and using ChatGPT in law school. We've compiled a list of a few resources we believe are most helpful:
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