Introduction
Garfield Law Ltd [2] [3] [4] [7], also known as Garfield AI, has become the first law firm in England and Wales to receive authorization from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to operate exclusively using artificial intelligence for providing regulated legal services. This pioneering move marks a significant advancement in the legal services sector [8], particularly benefiting small claims and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Description
Garfield Law Ltd [2] [3] [4] [7], also known as Garfield AI, has made history as the first law firm in England and Wales authorized by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to operate solely on artificial intelligence [4], providing regulated legal services [2] [3] [4] [5]. This groundbreaking authorization enables the firm to deliver legal assistance primarily through AI, marking a significant milestone in the legal services sector [8], particularly for small claims up to £10,000. Co-founded by Philip Young [1] [5] [7], a former lawyer [7], and quantum physicist Daniel Long [6], Garfield AI focuses on assisting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in recovering unpaid debts while minimizing the high costs typically associated with traditional legal services. For as little as £2 [6], the firm can draft a “polite chaser” letter, and for £50 [6], it can file claims in small claims court [6], significantly lowering the financial barriers to accessing legal support.
The firm operates as an AI-powered litigation assistant [4] [7], specifically designed for debt recovery in small claims court [3]. It guides users through the process by automating essential tasks such as drafting letters before action, issuing claims [1] [7], and preparing for trial. Users can upload unpaid invoices [6], after which the AI checks relevant facts [6], reviews Companies House records [6], and assists them throughout the small claims process [6]. Utilizing a hybrid approach of AI and expert systems, the platform enables users to calculate owed amounts [7], draft necessary documentation, and file for default judgments [7], all while adhering to SRA regulatory requirements [1].
As the named regulated solicitor [1] [2] [5] [7], Philip Young is responsible for maintaining high professional standards and overseeing the outputs generated by the AI. He emphasizes the firm’s commitment to quality control [7], initially reviewing all outputs before transitioning to a risk-based sampling method as the system matures [7]. Garfield Law has established processes for quality-checking work, ensuring client confidentiality [2] [5], and addressing conflicts of interest [5]. The firm is also subject to mandatory insurance requirements, reinforcing accountability for professional standards [3]. The responsible implementation of AI has the potential to enhance service delivery and affordability while maintaining public trust through adherence to established rules and necessary protections.
The SRA supports innovative legal service models [7], recognizing the potential for AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency while ensuring consumer protections are in place [7]. Prior to granting authorization [2], the SRA conducted a thorough review of Garfield Law’s compliance with regulatory standards [4], focusing on quality-check mechanisms [4], confidentiality safeguards [2] [3] [4] [5] [7], and conflict of interest management strategies [4]. The regulatory body has implemented stringent measures to manage risks associated with AI, including addressing concerns about ‘AI hallucinations,’ which can lead to inaccuracies or irrelevant case law suggestions. Importantly, the firm is not autonomous; client approval is required for actions taken by the AI [7], and there are monitoring processes in place to identify potential issues during the initial rollout phase [7]. Additionally, measures are being taken to mitigate AI-specific risks, such as the potential for large language models to generate fictitious cases and judgments [5], by refraining from proposing relevant case law [5].
Garfield Law’s regulatory approval is particularly significant in contrast to similar initiatives in the United States that have faced legal challenges [7]. The judiciary has expressed support for such technological advancements [6], with Lord Justice Birss highlighting their potential to improve access to justice [6]. The SRA’s chief executive has underscored the approval of an AI-based law firm as a significant development for legal services in the UK [2], emphasizing the role of responsible AI use in enhancing access to legal services for individuals and small businesses [2]. A dedicated team has been established by the SRA to support innovation in the legal sector [2], collaborating with law firms and technology providers to create beneficial new practices [2]. The SRA will closely monitor the firm’s progress as it pioneers this new model in the legal landscape [7], ensuring compliance and addressing the unique risks associated with AI in the legal field.
Conclusion
The authorization of Garfield Law Ltd to operate as an AI-driven law firm represents a transformative step in the legal industry, offering a more accessible and cost-effective solution for SMEs and individuals seeking legal assistance. This development underscores the potential of AI to revolutionize legal services, improve access to justice [1] [6] [7], and maintain high professional standards [2] [7] [8]. The SRA’s proactive approach in supporting and regulating such innovations ensures that consumer protections remain a priority, paving the way for future advancements in the sector.
References
[1] https://www.nonbillable.co.uk/news/garfield-ai-law-firm-sra-approval
[2] https://legal.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/solicitors-regulation-authority-authorieses-first-ai-based-law-firm-in-england-and-wales/120930543
[3] https://www.lexisnexis.co.uk/legal/news/sra-authorises-first-ai-driven-law-firm-to-provide-regulated-legal-services
[4] https://www.solicitorsjournal.com/sjarticle/sra-approves-first-ai-driven-law-firm?category=News
[5] https://www.legalcheek.com/2025/05/sra-approves-ai-driven-law-firm/
[6] https://www.lawfuel.com/sra-approves-uks-first-ai-only-law-firm/
[7] https://legaltechnology.com/2025/05/06/uk-regulator-gives-green-light-to-tech-only-law-firm-garfield-law-interview/
[8] https://www.sra.org.uk/sra/news/press/garfield-ai-authorised/
