AI and family law: where it can help, and where it cannot

I attended the Resolution Innovation Conference 2026 in London recently. Resolution is the national organisation for family lawyers who are committed to resolving issues constructively. Unsurprisingly, one of the biggest talking points was the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in family law and the wider legal profession.

There is no doubt that AI is here to stay. It is already changing the way we work, communicate and access information, and it has the potential to bring real benefits, particularly when it comes to improving access to information and helping people organise their thoughts. As legal professionals, we need to understand and embrace these developments where appropriate. However, the discussions at the conference also echoed some concerns I have been seeing first hand in my own family law cases.

Can AI help with a family law issue?

More clients are turning to AI tools for help with family law issues. In the very early stages, this can sometimes be useful. AI may help you gather your thoughts, understand broad legal concepts or identify areas where professional advice might be needed. In fact, AI often concludes by recommending that you speak to a family lawyer, which is usually the best next step.

What are the risks of sharing your information with AI?

What concerns me most is when people upload sensitive information into AI platforms without fully understanding the potential risks. This could include personal details, court documents, correspondence, legal advice, or information about a former partner or children. While it may seem convenient, there can be important consequences that are not always obvious.

Depending on the circumstances, using AI in this way could raise issues around privacy and confidentiality, compliance with court orders or reporting restrictions, legal privilege (the protection that keeps advice from your lawyer confidential), disclosure obligations and the accuracy of any guidance received. There is also the well-known risk of AI producing incorrect information or presenting biased responses.

I have also seen AI generate lengthy documents that appear impressive at first glance but, in reality, add little value to the case. In some situations, these documents can create additional work, increase costs and make it harder to focus on the issues that really matter.

Why can AI not replace a family lawyer?

Family law is, at its heart, about people. Every family is different, and every situation comes with its own challenges, priorities and complexities. The law cannot be reduced to a simple formula. Effective legal advice relies on experience, judgement and a detailed understanding of the wider circumstances. While AI can process information, it cannot replace the insight, strategic thinking and practical problem-solving that an experienced family lawyer brings to a case.

Does AI show you all of your options?

It is also important to remember that many family disputes can be resolved without going to court. Options such as negotiation, mediation, collaborative law and other forms of dispute resolution can often help families reach constructive agreements. AI tools do not always provide a complete picture of these alternatives or help individuals assess which approach is likely to be most effective for their particular circumstances. As a result, there is a risk that relying solely on AI-generated responses could unintentionally increase conflict or lead to unnecessary court proceedings.

So, should you use AI for family law?

Technology certainly has an important role to play, and I am very much in favour of innovation. The discussions at the Resolution Innovation Conference 2026 highlighted both the exciting opportunities and the challenges that AI presents. Used carefully, AI can be a valuable tool. However, when decisions involve your children, your finances and your future, there is simply no substitute for receiving tailored advice from an experienced family lawyer who can see the full picture and help you make informed choices.

Have questions about AI and your family law matter?

If you are dealing with a family law issue and have questions about using AI, whether your own use or that of the other party, please do get in touch. I would be happy to discuss your situation and explore how I may be able to help.

We offer an initial fixed-fee appointment of £200 plus VAT (£240) with a senior solicitor. In that meeting, we can look at your situation, explain your options and, if you have been using AI, help you make sense of what it has told you.

If you would like to book an appointment, or simply talk it through first, please call 01603 558 713 or email kjackson@nicholsonslaw.com.