Thinking of Using AI for Probate?

Losing a loved one is never easy. On top of the emotional toll, there’s often a mountain of paperwork to deal with - banks to notify, property to sort out, and a legal process called Probate to go through.

You might have come across AI tools or online services claiming they can help you do it all yourself. And while that might sound appealing, especially when you’re trying to keep costs down, Probate is not something you want to get wrong.

Here’s why using a qualified Probate Solicitor is often the safest and most sensible option - even in today’s tech-savvy world.

What Is Probate – And Why It’s Not Just a Form-Filling Exercise

Probate is the legal process of sorting out someone’s money, property, and possessions after they die. If they had a Will, it usually involves applying for a legal document called a Grant of Probate so that you (as the executor) can access their bank accounts, sell their home, and distribute their assets to the right people.

It might sound simple, but it’s not. There may be tax forms to complete, legal duties to follow, and strict rules around who gets what, especially if there isn’t a Will.

AI tools can’t always explain these rules properly or give tailored advice based on your unique situation. A Probate Solicitor can.

Avoid Costly Mistakes – You’re Personally Responsible

Did you know that if you’re named as an executor, you’re legally responsible for sorting out the estate correctly? That includes paying any debts, completing tax returns, and making sure all the right people get what they’re owed.

If anything goes wrong, for example, a debt is missed or money is given to the wrong person, you can be held personally liable.

Probate Solicitors understand the process and can protect you from making costly errors. AI systems, no matter how clever, don’t carry that responsibility - but you still do.

AI tools may suggest forms or processes that are no longer in use.

For example:

When testing an AI chatbot recently it misadvised completing an older version of the IHT205 form - not realising that the process for estates that fall within the 'excepted estate' rules had changed.

Result: The application could have been stopped by the Probate Registry, causing delays of several weeks.

Every Family (and Estate) Is Different

Some estates are straightforward. Others are not.

For example:

• What if there’s no Will?

• What if two siblings disagree over the Will?

• What if there’s a property abroad, or a business to deal with?

• What if a beneficiary has gone missing?

  
  

AI can't deal with these kinds of real-life complexities. A Probate Solicitor can step in, help resolve issues fairly, and offer clear, human advice when things get messy.

You’ll Need to Deal with HMRC, Banks, and the Courts

Applying for Probate usually means dealing with the HMRC, the Probate Registry, and multiple banks or institutions. They each have their own forms, procedures, and timelines.

While an AI tool might help you generate a template or point you to a website, it can’t speak to these bodies on your behalf, chase up delays, or provide tailored legal documents.

A Probate Solicitor will handle all of that for you, giving you one less thing to worry about.

It’s One Less Stress at a Difficult Time

Grief is hard. Trying to deal with Probate on your own, while holding down a job or supporting a family, is even harder.

Using a Probate Solicitor means you can pass the burden to someone who does this every day — and who understands both the legal process and the emotional side of things. It’s about peace of mind, knowing it’s being handled properly.

While AI tools can be useful for basic tasks, they’re no replacement for real legal advice - especially when it comes to something as important as Probate.

If you’ve recently lost someone and aren’t sure where to begin, speak to a Probate Solicitor. They can guide you through the process, protect you from mistakes, and give you the support you need to do things right.

Probate doesn’t have to be done alone.