The risks of AI-generated Wills: why legal expertise still matters

According to research conducted by Censuswide, 72% of UK adults aged 30 to 34 would consider using AI for will-writing. This shift comes at a time when only around half of UK wills are drafted by solicitors, raising red flags around the risks of inaccuracy, invalidity, and unintended consequences.

The Wealth Preservation team at Greenwoods recognise AI’s innovation and potential in the legal space. When used responsibly, technology can enhance access to legal information and streamline certain processes. However, when it comes to estate planning and Will drafting, the stakes are simply too high to rely on AI alone.

A Will is not a one-size-fits-all document. It requires a deep understanding of personal relationships, family dynamics, and evolving legal and tax considerations. AI cannot capture the intricacies of blended families, estranged relationships, dependant beneficiaries, or cross-border assets. Nor can it provide the strategic, forward-thinking guidance required to mitigate inheritance tax or future disputes.

As The Association of Lifetime Lawyers rightly points out, while AI platforms can generate a document that resembles a Will, these drafts are often riddled with vague language, lack of personalisation, and structural inconsistencies. While it’s reassuring that many AI platforms recommend seeking legal advice, the risk remains that people will not take the advice.

We have already encountered clients who came to us after trying to navigate Will writing alone, only to discover critical oversights that could have jeopardised their estate and caused unnecessary stress for their loved ones.

This is why professional legal oversight is not just advisable, but essential. Working with an experienced solicitor ensures your Will is clear, valid, and truly reflective of your wishes. It also opens the door to wider conversations around lifetime planning, such as Lasting Powers of Attorney, trusts, and inheritance tax planning, all areas where a tailored, human approach is irreplaceable.

Technology will continue to shape the future of our profession, but certain things must remain grounded in expertise, empathy, and human judgment. Writing a Will is one of those things.

We advise anyone considering AI for such a task to think carefully. The true value of a solicitor lies not just in the document we produce, but in the peace of mind we provide.

Contact our Wealth Preservation team to discover how we can help you protect what matters most and ensure the legacy you leave is the one you intended.