Been at lawyer classes all day, continuing legal education requirements to keep my license. One session was on artificial intelligence in the legal field. Presenter was talking about the increased use of AI in all areas, and the growing use in the judicial system. I was thinking about the recidivism prediction computer tools used in presentence investigations. Nope, a growing use of AI to handle actual judicial functions. A couple of computer companies are pushing systems that allow an input of facts, a legal issue, and the system will spit out a decision supported by statutory and case law authority. Other systems that don't give recidivism predictions, but actually give full sentencing recommendations. She goes on to say that some studies have been done that show judges "get things right" about 68% of the time, but computers hit closer to 90%. She also said that computers don't carry gender and race biases, and aren't swayed by emotions. Selling points are lower cost than human jurists, more efficient work output, reduced unwarranted incarceration, and reduced appellate review, as the computers are more better than people. Her prediction? In the next 15 years, plus or minus, court staff will change to fewer judges who handle things computers can't do yet, a lot of data input staff, and some kiosks in courthouses where people can "plead guilty" to the machine for low level offenses, see a clerk and probation officer, and have the whole thing done in half an hour instead of weeks/months to get through the system. So, what does the hive mind think? Are robes and gavels going to be replaced by touch screens and printers?
