We’re already using AI to support us through divorce

Divorce is never just about two people—it’s about the whole family. For parents, the process brings an added layer of responsibility: supporting children emotionally while also managing the legal, financial and practical realities of separation. Increasingly, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of how families navigate this transition. According to EY consulting 70% of us are using AI in our daily lives. And research from YEF suggests children (13-17 year olds) are using it at similar rates overall – with 25% saying they are using it for mental health support. 

Family Law Professionals are adopting it too

Behind the scenes, family law professionals are already using AI to make the process more efficient. Mediators, barristers and other specialists are turning to tools like Nova to gather, organise and summarise client information. The early stages of divorce often involve large amounts of paperwork, from financial disclosures to timelines and personal statements. AI can streamline this “discovery” phase, helping professionals work more quickly and giving parents clearer, more structured conversations from the outset.

“We’re seeing a real shift in how families approach separation. Clients are no longer coming in cold, they’re arriving having already used AI to better understand the process, organise their thoughts, and even work through difficult conversations. When used well, that leads to more productive discussions from the outset. At Nova, AI is at the heart of our platform and see it as a tool that supports better preparation and enhances professional expertise. It helps structure information, reduce administrative burden, and create clearer starting points for conversations. This ultimately allows family law professionals to focus on the human side of what is often a very emotional process.” James Evans, Head Strategic Growth, Nova Law.

While the legal advice itself remains firmly human, AI can support better preparation—which may ultimately save time, reduce costs, and ease some of the pressure on families.

Parents are using AI to understand the process, organise their thoughts and reduce conflict

For parents themselves, AI is becoming a practical and emotional support tool. Many are using it to understand how the divorce process works—what mediation involves, how child arrangements are decided, or what financial steps come next. Having access to clear, on-demand explanations can make the process feel less overwhelming, especially in the early stages.

It can also help with day-to-day challenges. Parents might use AI to organise their thoughts before a difficult conversation, draft messages about co-parenting arrangements that don’t fuel conflict, or prepare questions for their solicitor. In moments of stress or conflict, having a neutral space to reflect can help parents respond more calmly and constructively.

25% of Children are already using AI for mental health support

For children, the rise of AI presents both opportunities and important considerations. Research from YEF suggests that around 25% of children are already using AI tools for mental health support. During a divorce, when children may feel caught in the middle or unsure who to talk to, this kind of support can feel accessible and private.

Platforms like Split Happens are designed with families in mind. Fully safeguarded for users aged 13 and over, it offers guidance tailored to young people experiencing separation at home. While it’s not a replacement for parental support or professional care, it can be a helpful addition—particularly for teenagers who may prefer to explore their feelings independently at first.

“We have designed Split Happens to act as a bridge to the resources, real-world conversations and support we know is effective. We need to meet young people where they are physically, emotionally and digitally to support them effectively through parental separation.” Erik Castenskiold, Founder and CEO of Your Direction who create Split Happens in partnership with amicable.  

AI can be part of the solution but not the whole answer

Of course, AI has its limits. Divorce involves complex emotions, family dynamics and long-term decisions that no technology can fully understand. Children, especially, need human reassurance, stability and open communication. AI can support conversations, but it can’t replace them.

Privacy is another key consideration for parents. When using AI tools, it’s important to choose trusted platforms and be mindful about sharing sensitive information, particularly when it involves children.

Ultimately, AI is becoming part of modern family life—including how families separate. For parents, it offers a way to feel more informed, more organised and sometimes a little less alone. Used thoughtfully, it can reduce some of the stress around the process, creating more space to focus on what matters most: helping children adjust, and building a stable path forward.