SWLAW Blog

Bullocks Wilshire Building

January 12, 2026

Southwestern Law School Launches Schoolwide Introduction to AI & Law Program for 2026 in Partnership with Wickard.ai

Los Angeles, CA- Southwestern Law School announced today the launch of Introduction to AI & Law, a new schoolwide program designed to equip law students at every stage of their legal education with practical, job-ready training in artificial intelligence and its role in modern legal practice. 

The program, developed in partnership with Wickard.ai, reflects the rapid integration of artificial intelligence across law firms, in house legal departments, courts, and regulated industries. 

“Employers increasingly expect new lawyers to understand how artificial intelligence is used in legal research, drafting, and other core legal workflows, as well as the ethical and professional responsibility obligations that accompany its use,” said Dean Darby Dickerson. “Through this program, Southwestern Law School is ensuring that our students graduate with the knowledge and practical awareness needed to be practice ready in an AI enabled legal profession.”  

Introduction to AI & Law is open to all J.D. and LL.M. students at Southwestern Law School. Instruction focuses on how AI is used in legal practice, including research, drafting, and litigation support, as well as identifying and managing risks such as hallucinations, confidentiality concerns, and ethical and professional responsibility obligations. The program emphasizes practical, practice ready skills. 

Introduction to AI & Law builds upon the collaboration between Southwestern Law School and Wickard.ai in 2025, during which Wickard delivered AI education and training for Southwestern Law School’s Parris Academy for Excellence in Law & Leadership. 

“Southwestern Law School has long been ahead of the curve on innovation in legal education, and this program is a natural extension of that leadership,” said Oliver Roberts, CEO and Founder of Wickard.ai and instructor for Introduction to AI & Law. “Dean Dickerson and Southwestern have demonstrated a clear commitment to ensuring that students are prepared for AI in modern legal practice” 

Upon successful completion, students earn Southwestern Law School’s Law & Generative AI badge, a credential that may be listed on resumes and professional profiles. The badge signals to employers that a student has received verified training in AI, understands current legal and ethical considerations, and is prepared to operate in a modern legal environment where AI is increasingly embedded in daily practice.  

About Southwestern Law School 
Southwestern Law School, founded in 1911 and located in Los Angeles, prepares students for impactful legal careers through rigorous training, expansive professional networks, and one of the nation’s most adaptable J.D. programs. With strong roots in public interest, entertainment, and industry-connected practice, Southwestern combines academic depth with extensive real-world experience. Its graduates serve across the legal profession—in courts, government, public service, and leading law firms—shaping the future of law in California and beyond.

About Wickard.ai 
Southwestern Law School, founded in 1911 and located in Los Angeles, prepares students for impactful legal careers through rigorous training, expansive professional networks, and one of the nation’s most adaptable J.D. programs. With strong roots in public interest, entertainment, and industry-connected practice, Southwestern combines academic depth with extensive real-world experience. Its graduates serve across the legal profession—in courts, government, public service, and leading law firms—shaping the future of law in California and beyond.  

Media Contacts 

Steven Lopez
Southwestern Law School 
slopez@swlaw.edu
https://www.swlaw.edu/ 

Oliver Roberts 
Founder and CEO, Wickard.ai 
media@wickard.ai 
www.wickard.ai