By Pat Trevino | June 20, 2026
De Witt, Tx -The District Courts serving Cahoun, DeWitt, Goliad, Jackson, Refugio, and Victoria counties have issued a new Standing Order addressing the growing use of artificial intelligence in legal work. The order applies to all pending and future cases in these courts and establishes strict requirements for anyone who uses AI tools while preparing legal documents or conducting legal research.
According to the order, generative AI systems—such as ChatGPT, Copilot, Claude, Westlaw AI, Lexis+ AI, and similar platforms—are increasingly used in professional settings but remain prone to errors. The courts note that these systems may produce inaccurate information, fabricate citations, or introduce bias. Because AI programs are not licensed attorneys and are not bound by the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct, the courts emphasize that human oversight is essential.
Under the new rule, any attorney or self‑represented litigant who uses AI to assist with legal drafting, research, or analysis must complete and file a certification form before submitting AI‑generated material in any court filing or proceeding. The certification requires the filer to affirm that all AI‑generated language, citations, quotations, and legal analysis have been personally verified for accuracy using traditional legal research methods. The filer must also acknowledge that they are fully responsible for any errors and may face sanctions for failing to comply with the order.
The courts reiterate that signing a pleading in Texas already carries an obligation to ensure that all legal claims and arguments are grounded in existing law or supported by a legitimate argument for changing the law. The Standing Order reinforces that responsibility and clarifies that reliance on AI does not excuse inaccuracies or fabricated information.
District Clerks in all six counties have been directed to file the order with the Office of Court Administration, post it among their administrative orders, and display a file‑marked copy as a public notice at each courthouse and on their respective county websites.
The Standing Order takes effect immediately and will remain in place unless modified or replaced by the district courts.
