Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how people search for information. Tools such as chatbots and AI assistants can provide instant answers on almost any topic. But when it comes to legal questions, should you rely on AI?
The short answer is no.
While AI can be a helpful tool for general information, relying on it for legal advice carries significant risks. From confidentiality concerns to incorrect information, there are several reasons why legal matters should still be handled by qualified lawyers.
One of the most serious risks when using public AI tools is the loss of confidentiality and legal privilege.
When you ask a solicitor for advice, your communications are generally protected by legal professional privilege. This is a fundamental principle of English law which protects confidential communications between a client and their lawyer for the purpose of obtaining legal advice.
However, when you input information into a public AI system, that protection does not apply. The information you provide may be processed, stored, or used to train the system depending on the platform’s terms.
A recent example illustrates the danger. A solicitor was reported to regulators after uploading confidential client documents into ChatGPT, raising concerns about breaches of confidentiality and professional obligations. The case highlights the real risk of sensitive legal information being exposed when using open AI tools.
For individuals seeking legal guidance, this means that details about your dispute, finances, or personal circumstances could potentially be disclosed outside your control.
Another major issue is the phenomenon known as AI hallucinations.
Large language models sometimes generate information that appears credible but is completely incorrect. In legal contexts, this can mean invented case law, incorrect statutes, or misleading legal principles.
There have now been numerous incidents in UK courts where lawyers or litigants have relied on AI-generated authorities that simply did not exist. In one widely reported analysis, at least twelve incidents of false citations and AI hallucinations in UK courts were identified.
In other words, the AI confidently produced legal cases that were entirely fictional.
For someone trying to resolve a legal problem, this can be extremely dangerous. Acting on incorrect legal information could lead to:
Solicitors, by contrast, verify legal authorities through recognised legal databases and professional research tools.
There is another crucial point that many people overlook.
The providers of general AI systems do not accept responsibility for legal advice given through their platforms.
Recent changes to AI usage policies make clear that these tools are not intended to provide legal advice. If the information provided by an AI system is wrong and you suffer loss as a result, you may have no practical recourse against the provider.
In other words, if the advice is incorrect, there may be no one accountable.
Artificial intelligence is not inherently a problem. In fact, when used properly it can enhance legal services.
At PCB Solicitors, our lawyers use specialist legal AI tools such as LexisNexis Protégé. Unlike public AI systems, these platforms operate within secure professional environments designed specifically for legal practice.
This means:
Crucially, the AI does not replace the solicitor.
Our lawyers review, verify, and apply the information using their professional training and experience. They are able to identify potential errors or hallucinations and ensure the advice is accurate.
Perhaps the most important difference is accountability.
When you instruct a regulated law firm:
If something goes wrong, the firm must take responsibility. AI tools cannot offer that protection.
AI can be useful for general information, but it should not be relied upon for legal advice.
Using public AI tools for legal questions risks:
If you have a legal issue, speaking to a qualified solicitor remains the safest and most reliable option.
At PCB Solicitors, we combine experienced lawyers with carefully managed legal technology to provide advice that is accurate, confidential, and accountable.
If you need legal advice, please contact our team today to discuss how we can help.
