Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been rapidly impacting education and the workforce with users using a variety of platforms, such as ChatGPT, CoPilot, Gemini, and other large language models. These tools have led to the expansion of learning opportunities available at one’s fingertips. By using AI to generate questions for your initial estate planning consultation, these tools can allow you to guide the conversation with an Attorney and have an understanding of legal terminology before your appointment.

Tips for Using AI:

1. Start with specific questions versus general questions to get an answer tailored to you. For example, asking “what’s the difference between a will and a living trust”? as opposed to “tell me about estate planning”.
2. Treat it as a conversation.
3. Ask follow up questions or circle back to previous answers to gain more information. If any information is confusing, ask AI to break it down into simpler terms or ask for examples.
4. Verify information with an Estate Planning Attorney, since AI doesn’t have a law degree.

Guiding Questions to Consider:

Here are some sample prompts that can help get you started using AI to prepare for your initial consultation with your estate planning attorney.  Being better informed will make the estate planning process go more smoothly, both for your and your attorney.

Personal and Family Considerations

1. How can I avoid family conflict over my estate?
2. Who should I appoint as my executor/trustee/agent?
3. How can I ensure my money goes to who I want?
4. Who will care for my minor children if something happens to me?

Legal Documents

1. What estate planning documents do I need (e.g. Will, Living Trust, Healthcare Directives, Financial Power of Attorney)?
2. What’s the difference between a Will and a Living Trust?
3. How often should I update my Estate Planning Documents?

Healthcare and End of Life Decisions

1. Who will make medical decisions for me if I become incapacitated?
2. What does a healthcare directive or living will include?
3. How can I ensure my wishes are followed in end of life care?

Logistical Concerns

1. Where should I store my Estate Planning documents?
2. How does Probate work in my state and how can it be avoided?

Special Considerations

1. What should I consider for my estate planning if I own property in multiple states?
2. What special estate planning considerations are there if I’m part of a blended family or have stepchildren?
3. What do I need to consider for my estate plan if one or more of my children has special needs?
4. If I have a LLC, how does it affect my estate plan?

Even though AI is a tool to help develop questions and understand legal jargon, remember it cannot replace the work of an experienced estate planning attorney and cannot create legally binding documents. Nielsen Law PLLC provides family-focused estate and business planning to individuals and families in Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, and the Central Texas area. For more information, and to learn about our firm, please contact us. We look forward to working with you.