Emerging Technologies and Judiciary | 05 Apr 2023

The world has witnessed a significant transformation in the past two decades, with digitalisation being the driving force behind it. The advent of new technologies has transformed all sectors, from banking to healthcare, changing the way we conduct business and access services. With the potential to improve efficiency and enhance experiences, digitalisation has earned its stature as the buzzword of the day.

In this context, the judiciary is an area that has significant potential for emerging technologies to play a bigger role.

There is no doubt that emerging technologies will play an indispensable role in strengthening the nation. While there are always concerns that arise with change, it is up to us to leverage potential, offset risks with checks, and deliver solutions that can truly impact change in a significant way.

How Emerging Technologies can Transform the Judicial System?

• Digitalization of Court Proceedings:
  • One of the most significant benefits of emerging technologies is the digitalization of court proceedings.
  • The use of electronic systems can help in reducing paperwork, improving accessibility, and facilitating the efficient management of cases.
  • The digitization of court records can help in making them easily accessible, improving transparency, and speeding up the judicial process.
  • For example, the e-Courts project aims to computerize the working of courts in the country and make the judicial system more efficient.
• Use of AI and Machine Learning:
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning can help in analyzing vast amounts of data, identifying patterns, and predicting outcomes.
  • Several SC and HC judges have recognised the value and proposed that AI tools be introduced to enhance the efficiency of the justice delivery system – both in terms of quality and quantity.
    • Currently, the courts have implemented two tools – Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software (SUVAS) and Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Court’s Efficiency (SUPACE) in its systems.
      • SUVAS is an AI-enabled translation tool for conversion of orders/judgments to vernacular languages, while SUPACE is being developed to function as an AI Research Assistant tool.
• E-filing of Cases:
  • The use of e-filing can make the process of filing cases faster, more efficient, and cost-effective. E-filing can help in reducing the time taken for filing, improve data accuracy, and eliminate the need for physical presence in court.
    • For example, the e-filing portal of the Supreme Court of India enables lawyers and litigants to file cases and access case records online.
• Video Conferencing for Hearings:
  • The use of video conferencing can help in conducting hearings remotely, making it easier for lawyers and litigants to participate in the judicial process. Video conferencing can save time and money, reduce the burden of travel, and ensure the safety and security of all participants.
    • For example, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Indian courts started using video conferencing to conduct virtual hearings.
• Blockchain for Secure Record-Keeping:
  • Blockchain technology can help in ensuring the security and transparency of court records. The use of blockchain can help in preventing tampering, maintaining the integrity of data, and ensuring that court records are secure and accessible only to authorized users.
    • For example, the Indian state of Telangana is using blockchain technology to secure land records and prevent fraud.

What are the Challenges with Application of Emerging Technologies in the Judicial System?

• Data Security:
  • With the increasing amount of sensitive data being collected by the judicial system, it is crucial to ensure that this data is kept secure. Any data breaches could compromise the integrity of the justice system and undermine public trust.
• Bias and Discrimination:
  • Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may inadvertently perpetuate bias and discrimination if the algorithms used are not designed with care. There is also the risk that these technologies could amplify existing biases and inequalities in the justice system.
• Lack of Understanding:
  • Many legal professionals may not have the technical expertise required to fully understand the capabilities and limitations of emerging technologies. This could lead to misunderstandings about how these technologies should be applied and result in ineffective or inappropriate use.
• Privacy Concerns:
  • The use of emerging technologies could potentially violate privacy rights.
    • For example, facial recognition technology could be used to identify individuals without their consent, and there is a risk that this technology could be misused by law enforcement or other organizations.
• Cost:
  • The implementation of emerging technologies can be expensive, and the judicial system may not have the resources to invest in these technologies.
  • This could limit the potential benefits that these technologies could bring to the justice system.
• Ethical Considerations:
  • There are several ethical considerations that need to be taken into account when implementing emerging technologies in the judicial system.
  • There is also concern with respect to the lack of the human element or ‘conscience’ required for the act of judging.
  • For example, it is essential to ensure that these technologies do not compromise the rights of individuals or undermine the integrity of the justice system.

What Should be the Way Forward?

• Ethical Considerations:
  • Emerging technologies can have ethical implications, and the judicial system needs to ensure that these technologies are being used in a way that is consistent with ethical standards.
• Data Privacy and Security:
  • Emerging technologies such as AI and Internet Of Things (IoT) rely heavily on data collection, and it is important to ensure that this data is being collected and used in a way that is compliant with data privacy and security regulations.
• Accessibility:
  • The judicial system must ensure that emerging technologies do not create barriers to accessibility for individuals with disabilities or those with limited access to technology.
• Transparency and Accountability:
  • The use of emerging technologies must be transparent and subject to accountability measures to ensure that they are being used fairly and justly.
• Training and Education:
  • The judicial system must ensure that judges, lawyers, and other stakeholders are properly trained and educated on the use of emerging technologies to ensure that they are being used effectively and appropriately.