THE PERILS OF AN AI-WRITTEN WILL
Ann Christian, Head of Personal Law at LCF Law, explains why a quick, free will generated by artificial intelligence is no substitute for tailored legal advice.
Artificial intelligence can produce a document in seconds. When that document is your will, however, speed and convenience can hide serious risks.
It is easy to see the appeal of asking AI to write a will because it appears quick and free. However, a will is one of the most important legal documents most people will ever sign. If it is unclear, incomplete or incorrectly witnessed, loved ones may be left facing stress, delay and avoidable expense.
A will must do more than sound convincing
AI can generate confident-sounding wording, but it does not know your family, finances or intentions unless every relevant detail is identified and accurately explained. Phrases such as “my savings” or “divide everything equally” may seem straightforward yet become open to interpretation. A generic template can also miss blended-family arrangements, vulnerable beneficiaries, business interests, trusts, foreign property or the practical consequences of inheritance tax.
There are strict formalities too. In England and Wales, a will must be made voluntarily by someone with full understanding, put in writing, and signed in the presence of two adult witnesses who then sign in the will-maker’s presence. A beneficiary, or their spouse or civil partner, should not act as a witness because that can affect their gift.
Unlike AI, a lawyer can discuss your circumstances, ask important follow-up questions, assess capacity or possible undue influence, and take professional responsibility for the advice provided. They look beyond the words on the page to help ensure the will is valid, practical and tailored to your circumstances. They can identify scenarios you may not have considered and suggest how the will can cover them.
Professional advice brings lasting peace of mind
A solicitor can explain your options in plain English, draft precise provisions, guide you through signing and witnessing, and identify when wider estate planning may be needed. That human judgement can reduce the risk of ambiguity, invalidity and costly disputes after you are gone.
LCF Law is an award-winning firm with more than 145 staff across offices in Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate and Ilkley. Ann Christian has extensive experience helping clients put bespoke wills and trusts in place, providing reassurance that their wishes have been properly understood and recorded.
For tailored advice, contact Ann Christian, Head of Personal Law at
LCF Law, on 01943 885796 or email achristian@lcf.co.uk
Bradford
One St. James Business Park
New Augustus Street
Bradford
BD1 5LL
01274 848 800
bradford@lcf.co.uk
Harrogate
The Exchange, Station Parade
Harrogate
HG1 1TS
North Yorkshire
