Stop Sounding Robotic: How Law Firms Can Avoid the Most Common AI Writing Pitfalls
AI tools can be incredibly helpful for drafting content, but legal audiences are quick to spot anything that feels stiff, generic, or impersonal. The challenge isn’t just about “sounding human” it’s about sounding credible, trustworthy, and uniquely you. When your writing comes across as formulaic or hollow, potential clients tune out fast.
Let’s look at the most common signs of AI-generated legal content and how to steer clear of them so your firm’s voice stands out.
Common Overused Phrases That Undermine Trust
- Let’s be honest
- Unlock your full potential
- Discover the power of…
- Transform your practice
- Take your strategy to the next level
- Join us on this journey
- It’s no secret that…
- In today’s fast-paced legal landscape
- At the end of the day
- Whether you’re a solo attorney or a large firm
- We’ve got you covered
- A game changer
- Future-proof your practice
- Supercharge your results
- Your go-to legal resource
Words That Make Legal Content Sound Generic
- Unlock
- Journey
- Discover
- Empower
- Transform
- Revolutionize
- Optimize
- Ultimate
- Next-level
- Cutting-edge
- Seamless
- Innovative
- Dynamic
- Authentic (ironically!)
- Proven
- Limitless
Stylistic Habits That Signal AI, Not Expertise
Your legal content should reflect your authority not read like a tech blog. Watch out for these red flags:
- Overuse of em dashes for emphasis
- Too many ellipses to create “drama”
- Rhetorical questions in every section
- Bullet points that feel overly polished
- Starting too many sentences with “Let’s…”
- Repetitive sentence structures (“Not only X, but also Y”)
- Forced enthusiasm with exclamation points
- Using emojis or icons instead of professional language
What Actually Works for Law Firms
Think of AI as a legal assistant not a licensed attorney. It can help you structure ideas or speed up drafting, but your insight is what builds trust.
Here’s how to make your content sound authentic and credible:
- Read it aloud. If it doesn’t sound like how you’d speak to a client, revise it.
- Use specific examples. Vague promises don’t win trust. Real case types and clear outcomes do.
- Cut the fluff. Get to the point. Your readers are busy professionals or clients seeking fast answers.
- Sound human, not perfect. A professional tone is great, but it shouldn’t sound robotic.
- Build your own list of banned words or phrases. Keep your firm’s messaging sharp and consistent.
Why This Matters
At Regal Law Media, we know that effective legal marketing isn’t just about rankings it’s about building relationships. Clients don’t hire firms they don’t trust. When your writing sounds authentic, informed, and specific to your firm, it sets you apart.
Before You Hit Publish, Ask Yourself
- Does this solve a real concern for a prospective client or referral source?
- Could this content come from any law firm, or does it sound like us?
- Is the headline or opening strong enough to capture interest fast?
BONUS: Attorney Content Rewrite Prompt
“Rewrite this draft to sound more natural and approachable for legal clients. Avoid these words and phrases: [insert your banned list here]. Eliminate rhetorical questions, excessive dashes, and any forced enthusiasm. Use clear, direct language that builds trust. Include specific legal examples or a brief client story to make it relatable. Write as if you’re explaining the topic to someone with no legal background, offering practical, honest guidance. Keep it concise—skip lengthy intros and unnecessary filler.”
