Why AI Tools Like ChatGPT Can’t Replace a Nebraska Guardianship Lawyer
I met with a client this week who shared a story that perfectly illustrates a growing issue in the legal world.
They had used ChatGPT to draft a guardianship petition, thinking it would save time and money. But when they went to file it, the court clerk actually paused the process—asking if they really wanted to proceed with what was submitted, and suggesting they might want to speak with an attorney first.
By the time we met, the client was understandably confused. They asked if they needed to submit a birth certificate to prove they were the parents, along with several other documents… none of which I’ve ever needed in 12 years of practicing law in Nebraska.
And this is exactly why AI tools like ChatGPT aren’t here to replace attorneys.
Look—I’m not anti-technology. AI can be very useful for research, brainstorming, and early drafting—when used properly by legal professionals. But there is a big difference between using an AI tool and hiring an experienced, trusted advisor.
Guardianship proceedings in Nebraska are not just about filling out forms. They are governed by specific statutes—Nebraska Revised Statutes, Chapter 30, Article 26—and they require notice, proper filings, and court approval. Local procedures vary by county, and every judge has their own expectations. A tool like ChatGPT doesn’t know the difference between what’s required here and what might apply in another state—or what doesn’t apply at all.
In this client’s case, the confusion about needing a birth certificate was a great example of the kind of error that happens when AI lacks context. In most Nebraska guardianship cases, parentage isn’t the issue being litigated, and birth certificates aren’t required as part of the standard petition. The AI simply generated something that sounded plausible. The client almost filed it, which could have led to delays—or worse, a dismissed petition.
This is also where the risks of unauthorized practice of law can creep in. Courts expect filings to meet specific legal standards. When non-lawyers rely on AI-generated documents—especially if they start advising others based on what AI produced—they can easily cross that line, even unintentionally.
More importantly, the law isn’t static. Legal issues often evolve during a case. In a Nebraska guardianship matter, concerns might arise at the hearing stage, or a judge may request additional information. A seasoned Nebraska guardianship lawyer knows how to adapt and respond in real time—something an AI simply cannot do.
Here’s just a short list of what experience brings to the table in Nebraska guardianship proceedings:
understanding what is required under Nebraska law
knowing how local court procedures actually work in your county
anticipating what each judge typically expects to see
knowing which documents are actually needed—and which aren’t
guiding the strategy, tone, and approach of your case
being able to adapt if complications arise during the process
So can AI be part of the legal process? Sure. But it is no replacement for having an experienced Nebraska guardianship attorney by your side—especially when the stakes are this high. Guardianship cases in Nebraska can affect fundamental rights: whether an adult retains their ability to make their own decisions, or who will be responsible for a child’s care. You want to make sure it’s done right.
If you’re considering guardianship here in Nebraska—whether for a loved one with disabilities, an aging parent, or a child—don’t rely on AI alone. Get experienced legal guidance from someone who understands the law, the courts, and the real-world process.
If you’d like to talk about your situation, you can reach me at 402-259-0059 or zach@zandersonlaw.com. I’d be happy to help.