The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has generated significant implications across various sectors, sparking a heated debate on how to harness its benefits while mitigating risks. In an interview with Maayan Arad, legal researcher Giulia Gentile discusses the transformative power of AI in the judicial system and its potential impact on public perceptions of justice.
Gentile’s research delves into two key areas. Firstly, she examines how AI is shaping the legal field, particularly within judicial systems. She highlights the challenges associated with integrating AI tools in court processes while ensuring compliance with the rule of law. Secondly, Gentile investigates collaborative research funded by the EU Commission, alongside Orla Lynskey, focusing on protecting public values in privately digitized public services. This examination questions whether such partnerships compromise public services, ultimately prioritizing private interests over transparency and accountability.
One significant finding is the intrinsic bias in AI systems due to the biases present in the data they utilize. This raises concerns about the potential lack of compliance with fundamental values like judicial independence and non-discrimination, posing a threat to the rule of law. Furthermore, the increasing use of AI in public administration, including courts, alters the role and perception of state authority in society. For instance, the introduction of AI-enhanced judges blurs the boundaries, potentially impacting public trust in the justice system.
AI is already at play in the legal profession. Law firms employ algorithms for contract drafting, litigation arguments, due diligence, and e-discovery processes. In the courtroom, AI aids in tasks such as guiding litigants, workload distribution among judges, research support, and producing skeleton judgments. However, the responsibility for creating these tools remains largely undiscussed in public discourse.
Gentile highlights that current public-private partnerships in the UK, involving the development of technological innovations for courts, prioritize value for money over vital public values like fairness, non-discrimination, transparency, and accessibility. This raises concerns about the potential undermining of democratic principles.
As AI technology advances, it is expected to reshape courts and their functioning. However, the implications of these transformations are still uncertain, with the potential to introduce both novelties and challenges to the legal system. Striking the right balance between embracing AI advancements and upholding public values will be crucial in ensuring the effective and ethical integration of AI in the judicial system.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is AI’s impact on the judicial system?
The integration of AI in the judicial system brings both opportunities and challenges. It has the potential to improve efficiency, aid legal professionals in various tasks, and enhance access to justice. However, concerns arise regarding biases in AI systems, potential threats to judicial independence and public values, and the impact on public perceptions of justice.
How is AI currently being used in the legal profession and courts?
In the legal profession, AI is utilized for contract drafting, litigation arguments, due diligence, and e-discovery processes. In courts, AI assists in guiding litigants, workload distribution among judges, research support, and producing skeleton judgments.
Who is responsible for creating AI tools used in the judicial system?
The responsibility for creating AI tools used in the judicial system is a topic of concern. Currently, public-private partnerships play a role in developing these tools, but discussions surrounding the creators and their accountability remain limited.
What are the potential implications of AI advancements in the judicial system?
The advancement of AI in the judicial system can lead to transformations in court processes, alter the role of judges, and impact public trust in the justice system. Striking a balance between embracing AI advancements and upholding public values will be pivotal in navigating these implications.