Artificial intelligence has already started changing the way people work, communicate and manage their finances. Now, it could also begin transforming the legal sector, particularly for people who have previously been priced out of pursuing legitimate claims.
A recent legal success involving an AI-powered law firm has sparked discussion about whether technology could make justice more accessible for landlords, leaseholders and small businesses facing costly legal disputes.
The case is believed to be the first time an AI-assisted law firm has successfully won a case in an English court. While the dispute was not directly related to property, it has prompted questions about how similar technology could support landlords dealing with legal disagreements.
The AI law firm, Garfield AI, acted on behalf of a freelance HR consultant seeking to recover an unpaid debt worth £7,000. The client reportedly paid around £400 for the firm’s services, making it a far more affordable option than many traditional legal routes.
Rather than replacing lawyers entirely, Garfield AI handled much of the legal preparation. This included drafting documents, managing the court paperwork and preparing the case before instructing a qualified barrister to represent the client during the hearing.
The successful outcome has been described as a significant milestone for the legal industry. It demonstrates how AI can support legal professionals while helping to reduce the cost of bringing straightforward claims before the courts.
Garfield AI’s co-founder, Philip Young, described the victory as an important step towards improving access to justice. He noted that many individuals and small businesses choose not to pursue valid claims because the legal costs often outweigh the amount they are trying to recover.
The firm is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and can currently assist with claims ranging from £30 to £10,000. This makes it suitable for many lower-value disputes where traditional legal fees might discourage people from taking action.
Although the recent case centred on an unpaid debt, the implications could extend far beyond commercial disputes. Landlords and leaseholders regularly face disagreements with freeholders, managing agents, contractors, local authorities and service providers.
In many situations, the financial cost of legal action can be a major obstacle. Even when someone believes they have a strong case, the prospect of spending thousands of pounds on solicitors and court proceedings can be enough to prevent them from pursuing it.
If regulated AI legal services continue to develop, they may offer landlords a more affordable way to resolve certain disputes. Lower legal costs could make it easier to challenge unfair decisions or recover money without facing the same financial risks.
Leaseholders may also benefit from this type of technology. Disagreements over service charges, property management or building maintenance can often become expensive, particularly when specialist legal advice is required throughout the process.
However, AI is unlikely to replace experienced solicitors or barristers in more complex legal matters. Cases involving intricate legislation, significant financial stakes or detailed property law will still require expert legal judgement and courtroom advocacy.
Instead, AI could become a practical tool that handles routine administrative work, prepares legal documents and assists with straightforward claims, allowing qualified lawyers to focus on the more complicated aspects of a case.
As AI continues to evolve, its role within the legal profession is expected to grow. For landlords, leaseholders and small businesses, this development could represent an opportunity to access legal support more easily and at a lower cost, helping to make the justice system more accessible for those who might otherwise struggle to afford it.
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