Divorce Lawyer Warns Gen Z May Face Unfair Settlements Using AI Chatbots A prominent divorce attorney has raised concerns that members of Generation Z are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence chatbots to navigate divorce proceedings, potentially leading to unjust settlements. Hossein Berenji, founder of Berenji & Associates in Los Angeles, highlighted that approximately 27 divorces occur per 1,000 Gen Z individuals, with over 1 million young people using AI tools for legal guidance. A recent federal court ruling on February 17, 2026, underscored the legal vulnerabilities of AI-generated conversations, stating they lack the protections afforded to traditional lawyer-client communications. Gen Z has grown accustomed to seeking advice from AI for personal and professional matters, often treating chatbots as confidants. Many describe platforms like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot in human terms, such as therapists or friends. Nearly half of Gen Z workers have shared personal secrets with AI chatbots, which they have never disclosed to others. This trust in AI extends to divorce planning, where young couples often prioritize cost and convenience over traditional legal representation. Online platforms and general-purpose chatbots offer significantly lower fees than hiring a lawyer, making them an attractive option for financially strained individuals. However, the reliance on AI for legal matters carries significant risks. Chatbots may appear authoritative but often fail to account for state-specific laws that govern custody, property division, and financial support. For example, California law presumes community property is split 50-50, yet an AI tool might suggest a 60-40 split that violates state statutes. Custody decisions, which depend on strict best interest standards, can also be compromised.#los_angeles #chatgpt #hossein_berenji #berenji_associates #microsoft_copilot
