Lassen — General Order 2026-04 - Use of Artificial Intelligence in Filings

Source: https://www.lassen.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general-orders/general-order-2026-04.pdf

THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF LASSEN FILED Clerk of the Superior Court GENERAL ORDER County of Lassen 2026-04 MAY 11 2026 By_=-L. NIE'. -{-- l;+-+ USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN FILINGS +-1,' .,,.._/ DEP't.JTY Y ry Lawyers and Pro Se litigants have a long-established duty of candor to this court. All pleadings, motions, briefs, and other papers filed herein, whether submitted by counsel or by a party appearing pro se, are also subject to this requirement. By presenting a filing to the Court, the attorney or unrepresented party certifies that the filing is the product of reasonable inquiry and that the authorities cited therein do in fact exist and are accurately represented. It is not the province of the court to regulate, restrict, or require disclosure of the tools or assistance used to prepare filings. Attorneys and unrepresented parties may employ any lawful means of drafting or research, including artificial intelligence programs. Nevertheless, regardless of the method of preparation, the person who signs and submits a filing bears responsibility for its contents. The use of technology does not diminish, shift, or excuse that responsibility. The submission of a filing which includes fabricated quotations, nonexistent authority, or materially inaccurate descriptions of legal authority constitutes a breach of the duty of candor to the court. This principle is not new. The submission of fictional authority has never been permissible. That such authority may appear facially plausible or be technologically generated does not alter the analysis. If the Court determines that a filing constitutes a breach of the duty of candor, or other applicable governing rules, the Court may impose appropriate sanctions. Sanctions will be proportionate to the conduct at issue and tailored to the circumstances of the case. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to, striking the filing in whole or in part, monetary sanctions, referral to appropriate disciplinary authorities, or any other measure the court deems appropriate to protect the integrity of the judicial process. This general order is intended to be incorporated into a future revision of the Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Lassen, effective January 1, 2027. Upon successful incorporation into the Local Rules of Court, this General Order shall be deemed automatically revoked and rescinded.

Dated: May 11, 2026 _______________________________ Honorable Mark Nareau Presiding Judge of the Superior Court

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