We live in a world where AI is a tool used by us all in everyday life, whether it's planning a holiday or looking for CV-writing help. For anyone going through a separation, it will no doubt be tempting to use AI to navigate the process and seek quick advice to questions without having to pay a solicitor. AI has its place in family law and will no doubt continue to do so.
However, relying solely on AI for family law advice can be risky and result in delays and additional costs being incurred attempting to resolve any problems that have been created.
AI cannot replace the role of your family law solicitor. However, it can be a useful tool to provide general information on procedures and next steps. Each divorce case is individual. AI cannot replace the role your solicitor plays in understanding your specific circumstances and calling upon their experience to guide and advise you, particularly through any Court process. For example, AI might tell you that you can make an application to Court for financial remedy if you are unable to agree a settlement with your spouse. But it cannot assist in how to best prepare for your case and the strategy required to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
A badly prepared Court document without consideration of the potential implications can have a negative impact on the outcome of your case when a Judge makes a final determination. All documents prepared in court proceedings are subject to intense scrutiny by a Judge at a final hearing. If your spouse is legally represented, they are likely to use any such mistakes to their advantage in any negotiations or Court proceedings. AI can't provide you with the technical expertise and strategy or practical and emotional support that you need when navigating family law.
There is also a risk that AI will make errors or present flawed or inaccurate information if the data it relies upon is incomplete or biased. Inputting any personal information to an AI tool can result in data privacy issues, sharing personal sensitive information can result in this being used or shared in a way you have no control over. AI tools can "hallucinate" – generating false or misleading information or information that doesn’t make sense.
There is no way of seeking recourse if the advice you receive from AI is wrong.
By all means supplement the advice you are receiving with AI if you wish in order to find out about next steps or options but solely relying on AI is full of risks and potential pitfalls.
Photo by Igor Omilaev on Unsplash
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