Why wills planning still needs a human touch

In an increasingly digital world, clients have more access to information than ever before.

Tools such as artificial intelligence platforms can offer general guidance, but when it comes to complex legal matters, particularly personal matters such as wills, trusts and later-life planning, there is no substitute for a qualified, regulated professional.

The growing popularity of AI highlights how quickly attitudes are changing. Research by STEP found that almost three-quarters of adults in their early 30s would consider using AI to write a will. Yet the same research found that legal practitioners are already seeing mistakes in wills where AI has been used, underlining the risks of relying on technology without professional oversight.

No two clients are the same. Effective estate planning advice requires a lawyer to understand a client’s personal circumstances, including the nature and value of their assets, how those assets are owned and the family dynamics involved. This ensures advice is tailored to a client’s objectives and long-term needs.

While AI tools can summarise general principles, they cannot assess risk in context, identify unintended consequences or provide bespoke legal strategies based on individual circumstances. Without a full understanding of a client’s assets, ownership structures and family circumstances, it is difficult to ensure decisions align with their objectives and long-term needs

Even seemingly straightforward decisions can have unintended consequences. The way property is owned, for example, or the legal status of different family relationships can significantly affect how an estate is distributed. These are issues that require careful consideration and informed advice rather than a standardised response generated from a prompt.

There is also a practical risk in relying on AI to assist with legal matters. Content generated by automated tools may not be protected by legal privilege or confidentiality, and sensitive personal information could become exposed or misused.

Expertise and experience continue to matter. Our lawyers are members of recognised professional bodies focused on wills, trusts and later-life advice, including the Association of Lifetime Lawyers and STEP, and our department holds the Law Society’s Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS) accreditation.

These accreditations reflect a commitment to maintaining high professional standards through ongoing training and continuing professional development. In an area of law that continues to evolve, often with significant tax and financial implications, keeping knowledge up to date is essential.

Professional accountability is another important consideration. Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and must comply with formal codes of conduct, act with integrity, hold professional indemnity insurance and always act in their clients’ best interests. These safeguards cannot be replicated by automated tools.

A will is one of the most personal and important documents a person will ever complete. It represents a lasting legacy for family and loved ones, and errors can have serious, sometimes devastating, consequences. The decisions made as part of the process often involve important personal, financial and family considerations that require careful thought and discussion.

Technology has an important role to play, but it should support rather than replace professional legal advice. Specialist lawyers bring not only technical expertise and regulatory protection, but also human understanding, empathy and judgement – qualities that remain essential in an AI-driven world.