Artificial intelligence is creating new complications for Canadians navigating divorce proceedings, with lawyers reporting a troubling trend of clients relying on inaccurate AI-generated legal advice.
The Rising Trend of AI Legal Consultation
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, more Canadians are turning to platforms like ChatGPT for guidance on sensitive legal matters, particularly divorce. The primary motivation appears to be cost-saving, given that legal separation proceedings can be financially draining. However, this approach is proving problematic according to legal experts.
Robert Shulman, managing partner at Shulman & Partners LLP, has observed a significant increase in clients who are now challenging their family lawyers based on information obtained from AI sources. "We're now seeing clients who suddenly are challenging family lawyers and telling them how to present or defend an issue — and that information is coming from AI," Shulman explained in an interview published November 17, 2025.
The Hidden Costs of AI Guidance
What begins as an attempt to save money may ultimately cost divorcing couples significantly more. The information sourced from AI platforms has been described as "mostly inaccurate" by legal professionals, creating additional stress during an already emotionally charged process.
"All our lawyers are seeing this emerging trend," Shulman continued, noting that the volume of calls, emails, and texts from confused clients has become frustrating for legal teams. The unreliable information overload from ChatGPT can cause individuals to question their legal counsel unnecessarily, complicating divorce and separation proceedings that are already psychologically taxing.
Shulman emphasized that AI systems are trained to agree with users rather than challenge their beliefs, creating echo chambers that may reinforce misconceptions about legal processes.
Privacy Concerns and Professional Alternatives
Beyond accuracy issues, privacy represents another significant concern when using AI for legal matters. "Any interaction with our lawyers is always confidential and your privacy is protected. That may not be the case with AI," Shulman warned.
While AI can provide helpful general information, Shulman acknowledged that specific legal scenarios require professional expertise that AI cannot reliably provide. The advice generated by artificial intelligence often ranges from contradictory to inconsistent to simply incorrect when applied to complex family law situations.
For Canadians considering divorce, Shulman offered clear guidance: "If there's one piece of advice I can give to clients on the use of ChatGPT, it's to be very careful. It's most likely inaccurate and it may store your information — so personal information may be exposed."
The legal professional community continues to monitor this developing trend as artificial intelligence becomes more accessible to the general public seeking legal guidance.
