In May 2025, the UK regulator, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (“SRA”), approved the operation of the first law firm in England and Wales that provides legal services exclusively through artificial intelligence – Garfield.Law Ltd.
While there are already several firms that utilize AI in the background of their operations, Garfield.Law is the first law firm whose entire service delivery model is based on AI technology and has been officially authorized to provide legal services.
This firm primarily works with small and medium-sized companies, offering them a digital assistant for litigation – an AI tool that helps users recover debts of up to £10,000 and guides them through the small claims court process. In other words, the firm supports clients through every step necessary to prepare their case for trial, helping them draft and submit relevant documents and respond to any court or debtor correspondence (Garfield.Law represents only creditors). However, the firm does not provide legal advice on the merits of a case.
The SRA recognized the significant potential of such models, especially in terms of increasing access to legal services. Given that many individuals and companies face difficulties in accessing legal assistance, the use of AI is seen as a way to provide faster, simpler, and more affordable solutions for everyday needs.
Nevertheless, such innovations also bring new challenges, such as data protection, conflict of interest management, and quality control of services. Before granting approval, the SRA thoroughly examined the firm’s operational model and how it manages specific risks, including so-called AI hallucinations – instances where AI systems may generate inaccurate or fabricated information.
Although AI plays a key role in this firm, no decision can be made without the user’s confirmation. During the early stages of operation, additional oversight by the SRA is planned to identify potential issues in a timely manner. Furthermore, lawyers remain ultimately responsible for the firm’s operations, including anything generated by the AI system. The firm must also maintain appropriate insurance coverage to protect client interests.
The SRA has a dedicated team supporting innovation in the legal sector, working with law firms and tech partners to develop new service delivery methods that could bring broader social benefits.
The approval of Garfield.Law marks the beginning of a new era in the provision of legal services. While it is unlikely that AI will completely replace lawyers, one thing is clear – the legal sector is entering a new chapter where technology will play an increasingly important role.
What we can expect is that some standardized legal services may, in the future, be handled by AI, while specific services that require complex analysis and specialized knowledge – particularly in certain legal niches – will likely remain within the exclusive domain of traditional law firms.
Author:
Ana Radojević, Senior Associate
Email: ana.radojevic@prlegal.rs; legal@prlegal.rs;