Appelbaum Law founder Sharon Appelbaum authored an article for the Daily Journal’s Top Boutiques 2026 supplement examining the ethical and practical implications of artificial intelligence for boutique law firms handling white-collar defense, government investigations, and other high-stakes matters.

In “The Boutique Lawyer’s AI Problem Extends Beyond Hallucinations,” published October 14, 2026, Appelbaum explores risks that extend beyond inaccurate AI-generated legal research, including the potential exposure of confidential client information, the use of AI by outside vendors, and the implications of clients independently consulting AI tools during investigations.

The article addresses several considerations for attorneys and clients, including:

• Protecting client confidentiality: Understanding where sensitive information goes when it is entered into AI systems and evaluating the terms governing its use.
• Overseeing third-party vendors: Revisiting agreements with investigators, forensic examiners, IT providers, and other outside vendors to require approval before AI touches client matters.
• Advising clients about AI use: Educating clients about the potential consequences of entering sensitive information into AI platforms, particularly during criminal and regulatory investigations.
• Preserving attorney judgment: Independently verifying AI-generated information and documenting the legal reasoning underlying significant decisions.

Appelbaum emphasizes that AI can serve a valuable role in legal practice when used with appropriate safeguards and professional oversight. She identifies documenting attorney decision-making as “the most useful ethical application of AI, and the least discussed”: a record of the analysis and judgment behind consequential legal decisions.

The article reflects Appelbaum’s experience representing individuals, executives, and businesses in complex criminal defense matters and sensitive investigations, where confidentiality and strategic judgment matter most.

Read the full article: “The Boutique Lawyer’s AI Problem Extends Beyond Hallucinations”

Originally published in the Daily Journal, Top Boutiques 2026, October 14, 2026. Reprinted with permission.

Sharon Appelbaum was featured on the latest episode of The Litigator’s Path Podcast with Arthur Rothrock to discuss proactive defense strategies, client advocacy, and the realities of navigating complex white-collar investigations.

In this thoughtful conversation, Sharon shares insights from her experience as both a former prosecutor and a defense attorney, offering a rare perspective on how early, strategic engagement can make a critical difference in the outcome of a case.

Listen on Spotify

Listen on Apple Podcasts

A rare alignment between the government and a defendant has put a major double jeopardy question before the U.S. Supreme Court.
In her new Law360 article, “High Court Firearm Case Tests Limits Of Double Jeopardy,” Sharon Appelbaum analyzes Barrett v. United States, an unusual case testing whether overlapping federal firearm statutes allow cumulative punishment for the same conduct.

The Court’s decision could have far-reaching implications for defense strategy, prosecutorial discretion, and sentencing practices nationwide.

Read the full article here.