Free legal advice online: what AI can and can't do

Most people put off legal questions because a lawyer feels expensive or intimidating. AI tools now answer legal questions instantly, often for free. They are useful, but it helps to know where they stop.

What AI is good at

• Explaining the law in plain words. What does a notice period mean? Can my landlord keep my deposit? What is an indemnity?
• Reading documents. Upload a rent agreement or offer letter, and AI can point out unusual or one-sided clauses.
• Drafting simple documents. A basic NDA, a rent agreement or a letter to a builder, as a first draft.
• Helping you prepare. Knowing your rights and the right questions makes a meeting with a lawyer shorter and cheaper.

What AI can't do

• Represent you. Only an advocate can appear for you in court.
• Know every fact. AI answers what you tell it. A missing fact can change the answer completely.
• Take responsibility. A lawyer is professionally accountable for their advice; an AI tool is not.
• Be always right. AI can be wrong or out of date. Check anything important before you act on it.

When you should see a lawyer

• You have received a legal notice, summons or police complaint.
• There is a deadline, such as a limitation period or a reply date.
• A lot of money, property or your job is at stake.
• Family matters: divorce, custody, inheritance.
• You need to sign something you can't undo, such as a property sale.

Free legal aid in India

Under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, many people are entitled to free legal services, including a lawyer, from the National, State and District Legal Services Authorities. Eligible groups include women and children, members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, people with disabilities, industrial workers, victims of disasters or trafficking, people in custody, and people with income below the limit set by their state.

You can approach the District Legal Services Authority at your district court, or visit the NALSA website. The Government of India's Tele-Law service also connects people with lawyers for advice through Common Service Centres.

A sensible approach

Use AI to understand your situation and prepare. Use a lawyer when the stakes are high. April does both: Ask April answers your questions for India and the UAE in plain words, and suggests the next step, including when to speak to a lawyer.

This article is general information, not legal advice.