I recently had an experience where I had to exercise a great deal of self-control.
Having spent hours researching estate planning and drafting a will with the assistance of ChatGPT, I felt confident about the document’s structure but recognised the importance of having it reviewed by an experienced solicitor. My research had opened my eyes to several complex elements, like discretionary trusts, which I might have otherwise overlooked. Feeling accomplished but cautious, I sought out a local solicitor whose profile mentioned expertise in wills and trusts.
From his online profile, it was clear he was an older gentleman, which I took as a positive sign. Surely, I thought, decades of experience would mean deep knowledge, especially about discretionary trusts. I called him to ask for a rough quote to review the will. When he inquired who had drafted it, I honestly answered that I had used ChatGPT extensively for research and drafting.
What followed was nothing short of exasperating. He launched into a condescending lecture about why I hadn’t simply consulted a solicitor from the outset. He struggled to even remember the term "ChatGPT" or "AI," so I had to fill in the blanks for him. Rather than engage in a meaningful discussion about the draft, he seemed fixated on the idea that I had dared to do my homework without immediately enlisting professional help.
In the end, his lack of experience with discretionary trusts meant he couldn’t help me anyway. What irritated me the most wasn’t just the waste of time, but the dismissive tone and outdated scepticism he exhibited toward a tool like ChatGPT. I was tempted to suggest he give it a try before criticising it, but his tone made it clear that was a non-starter.
My key takeaway from this experience: Don’t mention ChatGPT to solicitors, especially older ones. Even if they’re brilliant in their field, generational gaps in understanding technology can lead to unnecessary condescension. Starting with “I drafted this myself” might save you an earful.
Knowledge workers like solicitors are vulnerable to generative AI. Tools like ChatGPT aren’t replacing solicitors yet, but they’re democratising access to knowledge. Professionals need to adapt or risk being left behind.
Be prepared for scepticism. Generative AI is still a polarising topic. Some embrace its potential; others resist it, often due to a lack of understanding or fear of disruption.
This was a striking reminder of the need for professionals to evolve with the times. A client like me, who had done thorough research, should have been seen as engaged and proactive - not scolded for it. All I wanted was a quote!
About Fusion Associates
Since 1998, Fusion Associates has been placing experienced professionals across the globe within consumer markets including consumer goods, fashion, sporting goods, healthy living and luxury.
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