Drafting your Will and the influence of AI

A will is likely to be one of the most important documents you will ever sign and so it is vital you get it right. It is a legal document that sets out how your estate should be distributed on your death and can also cover other important aspects, including guardianship of your minor children and the appointment of the  executors who will administer your estate.

Careful and expert drafting sits at the heart of a will. Whilst an AI generated will may be able to prepare a seemingly straight forward document to the untrained eye, the lack of scrutiny from a legal professional is likely to result in important elements in its drafting being missed. This could include a lack of consideration being given to an individual’s personal circumstances, relationships or financial situation. It may overlook the need for estate planning structures to protect a vulnerable beneficiary. In contrast, a legal professional trained in will writing and estate planning will consider all of this, as well as how the inheritance tax position of a person’s estate may interact with the structure of their Will. 

A Private Client solicitor understands that every person’s estate is unique; they will get to know their clients and their circumstances and provide tailored legal advice based on a wealth of training and experience. This ensures that a person’s wishes are unambiguously and validly set out so that unforeseen complications do not arise during the administration of the estate. If not identified and avoided, such difficulties can cause a practical, financial and emotional burden to family and loved ones at an already difficult time after a loved one has died. Therefore, whilst the use of AI within everyday life can present as a time and money-saving tool, in practice relying on it for ‘advice’ on your will poses a very real potential risk that your testamentary wishes are undermined - or even rendered invalid – after your passing. In the face of this reality, the risks posed by AI far outweigh any potential time or cost-saving benefit.

Our expert team can help guide you through the process of preparing a valid will tailored to your personal needs and wishes and ensuring the smooth administration of your estate for your family members. Whilst the preparation of a will can seem like a daunting task, we are here to help and answer any questions or worries you might have. If you would like to have a discussion with one of our team about the preparation of your first will or undertaking a review of an existing will, please contact our Private Client department at 0208 290 0440.