AI in judiciary: Efficiency at risk without oversight, experts warn

Artificial Intelligence is increasingly being used in courts and law offices across India for case listing, legal research, document summarisation, and predictive analytics , aiming to reduce backlog and improve efficiency. The Supreme Court of India has already adopted AI tools for translating judgments and improving access to court records, while several High Courts are exploring automated cause-list management and e-filing scrutiny. Globally, AI has been used for bail recommendations and risk assessments.

Experts caution that AI cannot replace human judgment . One major concern is algorithmic bias . AI systems trained on historical data may replicate existing inequalities, affecting marginalized communities. Unlike human judges, AI cannot weigh context, empathy, or constitutional values. If used without oversight, AI in bail, sentencing, or case prioritisation could silently perpetuate injustice.

Transparency is another critical issue. Many AI systems are “black boxes,” making it unclear how decisions are generated. This undermines accountability, a cornerstone of natural justice. Judicial data is highly sensitive, and without robust data protection , AI could expose confidential information to breaches or misuse.

Even as a supportive tool, AI poses the risk of automation bias , where judges might over-rely on machine-generated summaries or insights, diluting independent reasoning. Experts stress that AI must remain a tool, not an authority.

When responsibly integrated, AI can streamline processes and assist legal research. But the safeguards are non-negotiable: clear ethical guidelines , mandatory human oversight , and strong data protection frameworks . The judiciary, as the guardian of rights, must embrace technology cautiously ensuring efficiency does not come at the cost of fairness and equality.