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The dangers of using AI to write your Will

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an inescapable headline in the past two years. As the technology has developed, its impact is being seen across more aspects of life.

It is no surprise then, that people are considering its role in legal services, including Will-writing.

According to new research from the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, 72 per cent of UK adults aged 30 to 34 would consider using AI to update their Will.

However, while AI might be useful for many administrative tasks, drafting a legally sound Will is not one of them.

The risks of AI-generated Wills

Here are some of the reasons why relying on AI to write or amend your Will could put your estate and loved ones at serious risk.

Errors and inaccuracies

A Will is a legally binding document that must be precise.

Even minor mistakes such as incorrect wording or missed clauses can render a Will invalid or lead to serious disputes.

AI-generated Wills may not fully grasp the terminology and complexity of legal language, potentially leaving your final wishes open to misinterpretation or legal challenge.

Ambiguous wording

Legal documents require unambiguous phrasing to avoid disputes.

AI models generate text based on patterns, but they cannot apply legal reasoning or predict how a phrase might be interpreted in court.

Vague or poorly structured wording could lead to confusion, increasing the risk of inheritance disputes among beneficiaries.

Failure to meet legal requirements

Wills must comply with strict legal formalities to be valid in the UK. For example, a Will must be signed and witnessed correctly.

AI tools cannot ensure that these requirements are met, meaning that an AI-generated Will could be invalid from the outset.

No personalised advice

Every individual’s estate is unique. AI cannot assess complex family dynamics, tax implications, or potential legal risks in the way a solicitor can.

For example, an AI tool may not consider the impact of Inheritance Tax planning or how a Will interacts with other legal documents like trusts.

Increased risk of disputes

Poorly drafted Wills are one of the leading causes of inheritance disputes.

If your Will is unclear or does not properly reflect your wishes, it could be challenged in court.

This can lead to stress, delays, and unnecessary legal costs for your loved ones.

Why professional legal advice matters

While AI is a powerful tool in many areas, it cannot replace the expertise of a qualified solicitor. A professionally drafted Will ensures:

Legal accuracy – Your Will meets all formal requirements and is legally binding.
Clarity – Your wishes are clearly expressed, reducing the risk of disputes.
Personalised advice – A solicitor can help with estate planning, Inheritance Tax, and family considerations.
Protection for your loved ones – A valid Will ensures your estate is distributed as you intend, giving your family peace of mind.

AI has its place in modern life, but when it comes to something as important as your Will, human expertise is irreplaceable.

A solicitor provides the reassurance that your final wishes will be upheld, your estate will be protected, and your loved ones will be cared for.

Instead of taking risks with AI, ensure your Will is drafted by a professional who understands the law, not just the language.

If you need advice on making or updating your Will, contact our expert team today.

Rachel Blackburn

Head of Wills, Probate and Older Client Services

I joined Mander Hadley’s Wills, Probate and Older Client Services Team in 2018.I specialise in the preparation of Wills, Probate and estate administration, trusts and trust administration and Lasting Powers of Attorney. I also have experience of care fee planning and appeals of Continuing Health Care decisions.

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