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Risks of Using AI to Draft a Will

Financial Times Companies •
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Lucy Warwick-Ching considers using AI to draft her will to save money but questions the risks. Adam Creasey, senior associate at Stevens & Bolton, notes AI chatbots are eager to please and will generate a will without hesitation, but may miss critical nuances. A will must reflect personal circumstances, family dynamics, assets, and inheritance tax complexities—areas where AI may lack the judgment of an experienced lawyer.

AI-generated wording, while seemingly sensible, can create ambiguity or unintended consequences due to unverified language. Legal formalities, including proper signing and the testator’s 'know and approve' requirement, are strictly enforced; solicitors provide a presumption of compliance, whereas AI wills face higher challenge risks. Even specialist legal AI tools require significant lawyer oversight and cannot yet produce reliable wills independently.

The cost of a properly drafted will is modest compared to potential disputes, delays, or tax traps from errors. The column emphasizes that a will is one of the most important documents a person signs, and professional advice should not be substituted with AI-generated content.