Background

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming legal services and, more broadly, all industries; it is an evolving and inevitable trend.

As a market-leading law firm, VdA is committed to upholding the highest professional standards with regard to the use of AI tools.

Purpose

This policy sets out the fundamental principles governing the use of AI tools at VdA. Its purpose is to inform our Clients, Partners and other stakeholders of VdA’s commitment to the ethical, secure and responsible adoption of these technologies within the scope of our services and operations.

VdA uses AI tools to enhance productivity, quality, efficiency and speed in the provision of legal services, whilst always ensuring compliance with applicable ethical standards and legal requirements, as well as the protection of the interests of our Clients and Partners.

AI Tools and Their Use

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools encompass a range of technologies, including generative AI, natural language processing, machine learning and predictive analytics systems, among others. At VdA, we use a range of AI solutions, including third-party solutions and tools developed in-house, to support the provision of legal services across various areas. Key use cases include legal research, document and contract analysis, content creation and summarisation, document translation, and the optimisation of internal processes.

Internal Governance and Training

VdA has appointed a dedicated team, led by the Managing Partner, to oversee the development and responsible implementation of artificial intelligence systems within the firm, as well as the various regulatory, technological and organisational challenges that arise in this field. This team – the AI Team – comprises the Head of Innovation, the Business & Knowledge Director, the Technology Director, the Talent Director, the Head of Knowledge Management, the Head of Digital Acceleration and the Head of Client Value. Its composition, priorities and mandate may be adjusted whenever necessary to respond to the evolving needs of the firm and the regulatory framework applicable to AI.

All VdA staff are bound, inter alia, by the Internal Artificial Intelligence Policy, the Information Security Policy, the Office Premises Security Policy, the Data Protection Policy and the Code of Ethics and Conduct.

In addition, VdA invests continuously in the training of its staff through specific programmes that promote the integration of AI across the firm’s various areas of activity, including the “AI in Action” initiative. These programmes include training and awareness-raising activities on the ethical, secure and responsible use of AI tools, ensuring that all staff have the necessary knowledge and preparation to use them correctly.

Principle I: Confidentiality, Security and Accuracy

VdA uses AI tools predominantly in its own environments or in private instances, thereby ensuring high levels of control, security and confidentiality of information.

These tools are subject to the same rigorous information security standards as those applicable to VdA’s other systems, including compliance with current legislation and the controls set out in the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standard, according to which VdA is certified.

Before adopting any AI tool, including generative AI, VdA assesses its security, confidentiality, data protection, data location, licensing model and terms of use. VdA thus proactively manages the risks associated with the use of AI tools throughout their entire lifecycle, from selection and implementation through to their use and ongoing monitoring.

All data sources used, as well as any content or outputs generated by these tools, are subject to appropriate assessment and validation to ensure their quality and accuracy, whilst always maintaining appropriate human oversight.

The Internal Artificial Intelligence Policy allows VdA, Client or Partner information to be entered only into AI tools approved by the firm.

Moreover, VdA has systems and technological tools in place to control the flow of information relating to VdA, Clients or Partners to external sources. Among other security layers and policies, these systems and tools:

• restrict unauthorised cloud-based data-sharing solutions;
• block the use of removable data storage devices;
• monitor and issue alerts in respect of private data and sensitive information in transit; and
• monitor and issue alerts in respect of deviations from application and service usage patterns.

Principle II: Responsible Use of AI 

VdA uses AI tools in accordance with the ethical and professional principles that govern its operations, whilst respecting the rights, interests and expectations of its Clients, Partners and other stakeholders.

The use of AI takes into account equity, diversity and the social and organisational impacts of these technologies, seeking to ensure a positive and proportionate effect.

VdA actively participates in knowledge-sharing initiatives and is committed to the development and analysis of tools that promote the ethical and responsible use of AI. As a member of the Center for Responsible AI, it actively collaborates in promoting the responsible development and use of these technologies. At the same time, it proactively monitors developments in best practices, international standardsand emerging trends in the use of AI, ensuring that its activities remain aligned with the highest standards of responsibility and innovation.

Principle III: Transparency and Open Engagement

VdA maintains transparent and open communication with our Clients and Staff regarding how we use Artificial Intelligence (AI), addressing queries and providing information whenever necessary.

VdA values ongoing dialogue, encouraging our Clients and Staff to raise suggestions and concerns in order to ensure that our practices meet the highest standards of responsibility.

Where appropriate, VdA is available to assess and adjust its use of AI tools in line with the specific needs, preferences or contexts of its Clients and Partners.

VdA is committed to keeping all stakeholders informed of any relevant developments in this field, thereby strengthening trust and collaboration regarding the use of AI.

Update of the AI Policy

This document shall be valid from the date of its approval and shall remain in force until a new version is communicated and approved.

In view of the rapid technological and regulatory developments in this field, this policy shall be regularly reviewed and updated whenever necessary, to ensure it remains appropriate.

 

Approved by the Board of Directors on 2 July 2026