Technology has been increasingly helping us in our day-to-day life  and the  internet gives us all information in an efficient and readily available manner. With the use of Chat GPT becoming more convenient and accessible, it is easy to question whether there is any need to use a specialist and pay for their advice, in all walks of life, not just solicitors.

The legal profession have also questioned whether AI will replace them for this very reason.

Although AI and technological development can, without any doubt, be a great tool, the content that AI produces is occasionally inconsistent or does not take into account the individual facts of a case. You might have heard about a solicitor who used two fake cases which were generated by AI during Court proceedings, much to their embarrassment.

 The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) approves the use of AI, but they also warn us against the incorrect information produced by this system and encourages us to verify it. Why? Because incorrect information can lead to poor advice and wrong outcomes.

There are numerous reasons why you can decide to ask Chat GPT; availability, time pressures or simply, concern that the question may seem “stupid”.

There is no such this as a stupid question when it comes to legal matters. You should always ask your solicitor to assist you with any questions you might have, and it is important to feel confident especially when you are purchasing a property, although they may not be able to answer straight away. Solicitors do not judge, they advise – we know that we deal with these types of matters everyday, but this may be your first time, so something obvious to us, may not be to you.

Although, we are not always available whilst dealing with other matters, we will always find time to respond to your questions and the last thing we want is to exchange Contracts without your full knowledge of your new home.

When it comes to property, we know that reports on title are very lengthy and daunting documents (especially when you are purchasing leasehold property), but they summarise all your obligations and rights. You should always read through them and raise with your solicitor anything that is unclear before giving authority to proceed to exchange of contracts. This document allows you to learn about your property, not only to make the decision whether to buy it, but also to know how to use it after completion and anything that may prevent works you wish to do.  Using AI to summarise the content of such a report, whilst tempting, may give you an incorrect summary as it will be out of context.

Our role as solicitors is to help you and guide you through your matter, whether it is property, litigation or dealing with tax matters, with a human hand.

Our advice: do not leave important details of your matter to be explained by Chat GPT!

This advice is not only applicable to residential conveyancing clients, but also other areas of law. There are a number of reasons why you cannot sell or purchase a property without instructing a solicitor and these largely are to ensure that you are making an informed decision.  Property matters potentially are likely to be the biggest transaction you will make in your lifetime. Since you will have already instructed solicitor, why would you not ask them all the relevant questions?

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your residential conveyancing transaction and wish to discuss this with one of our solicitors, please do not hesitate to contact Jenny Austin or Karina Kulczak.