Guest post by Robert Webster, partner at Maguire Family Law
Webster: We cannot be complacent about AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly intertwined with family law. Clients are using it to draft initial enquiries, prepare statements and, in some cases, to support themselves as litigants in person.
While this growing accessibility to information can be empowering, it also presents new challenges for both clients and solicitors.
Many individuals now undertake their own legal research before speaking to a solicitor. This can create unrealistic expectations or misunderstandings about how the law applies to their specific circumstances, sometimes leading clients to question professional advice.
There is also a significant lack of awareness around the risks of entering sensitive information into AI platforms, which could potentially undermine confidentiality or legal privilege.
Used without guidance, AI can give the illusion of certainty where none exists. While it can educate and inform, those who rely on it as a substitute for legal advice risk compromising outcomes in what are often emotionally and financially critical moments.
That said, AI offers genuine benefits when used appropriately. It can help clients better understand legal processes, demystify complex terminology and feel more prepared for meetings with their solicitor.
It can also assist with gathering information, organising documents and exploring options, ultimately saving time and improving the quality of communication between client and adviser.
As legal professionals, we have a responsibility to help clients understand where to draw the line. As AI tools improve, the distinction between technology as a means of understanding and efficiency, rather than a replacement for litigation-tested judgment, is becoming clearer.
AI providers themselves increasingly emphasise that their tools are designed to offer general information rather than tailored legal advice. For example, OpenAI recently introduced new rules for ChatGPT, which state it can no longer provide specific legal advice.
This is a welcome acknowledgement that no system can fully account for the nuances of individual cases, the emotional dynamics of family disputes or the strategic considerations that experienced solicitors bring to bear.
The legal landscape is changing rapidly. Firms that wish to set themselves apart cannot afford to be complacent about AI. Embraced properly, it can deliver significant benefits to day-to-day practice, from streamlining case management to supporting legal analysis and reducing time spent on routine administrative tasks.
By freeing up capacity, solicitors can devote more time to developing bespoke strategies and resolving complex issues. This improves efficiency and delivers tangible benefits for clients, including lower costs, better outcomes and stronger long-term trust.
As AI continues to evolve, family solicitors will be able to manage higher caseloads without compromising quality, ensuring advice and expertise remain bespoke and considerate.
Crucially, however, the foundations of family law remain built on trust, empathy and human judgement. Clients come to us at some of the most difficult points in their lives and need reassurance that their adviser understands not just the law, but their situation.
This depth of understanding is intrinsically human and cannot be replicated by AI. While technology can enhance the solicitor-client relationship by empowering clients with accessible knowledge and enabling more efficient ways of working, it cannot replace compassion, experience or professional accountability.
Innovation should be embraced, but used wisely. Every case is unique, and there will always be a place for bespoke advice grounded in experience and the law. AI can help clients understand the road ahead, but it cannot walk it for them.
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