A senior Harrogate lawyer has issued a warning about the risks of using AI to write your will.

As growing numbers of people use artificial intelligence (AI) in their daily lives, some are now trusting the technology to write wills.

It’s becoming a national issue with new research by Censuswide commissioned by the Association of Lifetime Lawyers revealing that 72% of people in their early thirties would consider using AI to write their will.

But Ann Christian, Head of Personal Law at LCF Law, an award-winning full-service law firm which has offices in Harrogate, Leeds, Bradford and Ilkley, says the dangers can outweigh the benefits of this approach.

Ann Christian, Head of Personal Law at LCF Law in Harrogate says the dangers of doing an AI or DIY will can outweigh the benefits. (Picture John Steel Photography)

placeholder image — Ann Christian, Head of Personal Law at LCF Law in Harrogate says the dangers of doing an AI or DIY will can outweigh the benefits. (Picture John Steel Photography)

“It’s easy to see why writing a will with AI can seem attractive because it’s quick and free,” she said.

"But a will is one of the most important legal documents most people will ever sign, and all too often family members are left dealing with stress, delay and expense because of DIY wills.”

As a member of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, Ann says she has seen countless problems arise when a will has not been prepared properly.

“Families can face uncertainty, disagreements and delays at an already emotional time,” she said.

"Often, the cost of resolving those problems is far greater than the cost of getting clear, regulated advice in the first place.

"Once a person has died, mistakes in a will are usually far more difficult, and sometimes impossible, to put right.

"Plus, AI programs cannot legally witness, nor can they account for regional legal quirks.”

As well as being a member of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, Ann Christian is one of only a few lawyers in the region to complete the prestigious STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) Advanced Certificate in Cross-Border Estates qualification.

She is also warning to take care over cut-price short cuts to will making.

"DIY wills and low-cost online services are usually generic, but property, pensions, inheritance tax, business interests, digital assets, foreign property, trusts or providing for a vulnerable beneficiary, can easily be missed by a standard template,” she said.

“Professional advice gives peace of mind that a will is valid and tailored to the individual’s circumstances."