Artificial Intelligence and Family Law, a Cautionary Note

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more widespread in society every day, and the legal sector is no exception. But while there can be many advantages to using AI, there are just as many dangers — especially when it comes to family law matters. Notably, family law cases typically involve emotionally complex issues that are handled by attorneys who are trained in this area to provide personalized guidance and customized legal advice. Although AI can be a valuable tool, it cannot serve as a substitute for human knowledge, insight, empathy, and ethics.

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Artificial intelligence — commonly referred to as “AI” — is technology that simulates the human intelligence processes. It uses algorithms, data, and computational power to perform tasks that are typically associated with those performed by a human. By collecting data and correlating it with other data, an AI system can learn from experience and recognize patterns based on its study of the information.

How is Artificial Intelligence Used in Family Law?

AI can be used in various ways in family law matters. Not only can it serve as a supportive tool for the court to increase efficiency, it can also be relied upon by attorneys to save time, streamline the legal process, and reduce costs. It can also help to uncover inconsistencies that may reveal hidden assets and flag irregularities for a family law attorney to investigate. However, not all attorneys use AI in their practices — there can be many privacy and confidentiality concerns with uploading documents and data into these programs that put a client’s personal information at risk. In addition, AI cannot specifically tailor legal advice or strategize in the way an experienced family law attorney would.

Some things that artificial intelligence can do in family law cases that may be best left to the skill of an attorney can include the following:

• Provide basic legal information
• Find missing information in documents
• Review large quantities of documents
• Identify relevant clauses in documents
• Help evaluate evidence
• Generate legal documents
• Proofread legal documents and motions
• Arrange appointments
• Send reminders about court dates

AI technology also drives many child custody apps. Depending on the app, the technology can analyze text messages or emails for inflammatory language, organize co-parenting schedules, and provide a low-conflict communication platform that allows both parents to be on the same page at all times. Although AI powered apps can help to develop parenting plans, it should not be used without the oversight of an attorney.

What are the Dangers in Using Artificial Intelligence in Family Law?

Regardless of its advantages, artificial intelligence should be used with the utmost caution in family law. Importantly, family law matters are typically nuanced and highly fact-specific. While it can be tempting to use AI in a child custody or support case, it’s essential to understand that these platforms have limitations — they cannot replace human judgment. In addition, they do not account for individual circumstances and can have an adverse impact on your case when used without the guidance of an attorney.

Another risk of using AI is that it might not account for state-specific statutes or recent changes in the law. Family law attorneys must stay up-to-date on any new legislation and statutes that could affect their area of practice in their jurisdiction. While AI chatbots may contain disclaimers that the information provided may not be accurate, it’s vital to keep in mind that it does not have the qualifications to practice law, conduct tailored research, or give advice based on the specific facts of your case. As a result, false or inaccurate information may be computer generated by these programs.

Additionally, AI can raise a number of privacy concerns when it comes to family law cases since these matters often involve highly sensitive information. You should not input any personal details such as your full name, contact information, bank account numbers — or any other confidential data — into an AI platform. This is also a risk you must consider when using AI to review confidential data or documents. You also should not upload any personal documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, court documents, or correspondence. If you provide any of this information to an AI system or chatbot, your privacy and security may be compromised.

Should You Use Artificial Intelligence in Your Family Law Case?

Artificial intelligence has many benefits — but it must be used very carefully in divorce, child custody, child support, and property division cases. It’s crucial to understand that this technology can make serious errors that could affect the outcome of your legal matter. Not only might the algorithms misinterpret statutes and fail to consider legal precedent, but it can also fail to apply the law correctly to the facts of your case.

AI should not be used as an alternative to working with an experienced family law attorney. A skillful attorney will provide the legal help you require as you go through the family law court process — and offer you the emotional support you need. A compassionate family law attorney will listen to your concerns, help you navigate your case, and assist you with reaching a settlement agreement that reflects your goals and meets the best interests of your children.

Contact an Experienced Maryland Divorce Attorney

Family law matters can be complicated and it’s vital to have the guidance of an attorney who can protect your rights, walk you through the legal process, and advise you regarding your options. At the Law Office of Shelly M. Ingram, our Fulton, Maryland divorce lawyers are committed to providing personalized legal services and customized solutions for a wide variety of family law matters. Trained in collaborative divorce, mediation, and traditional divorce litigation strategies, we will work with you to reach a resolution that is custom tailored to your specific situation. To schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Maple Lawn divorce attorney, call us at (301) 658-7354 or contact us online.