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Generative AI & the future of the courts

Courts must lead the way in responsible AI adoption, ethical oversight, and governance. The Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA) policy paper explores how generative AI can be integrated into court operations while ensuring fairness, transparency, and privacy. This paper outlines key opportunities, risks, and recommendations for courts navigating AI-driven transformation.

Who should read this?

  • Judges & court administrators: Understand AI policy and governance in court settings
  • IT leaders & policymakers: Develop AI standards, ethical frameworks, and risk mitigation strategies
  • Court staff & legal professionals: Learn about AI's potential applications and challenges in judicial environments

Why this policy paper matters

Generative AI is rapidly transforming legal systems. Courts must lead AI adoption with clear policies, ensuring that efficiency and accessibility do not come at the expense of due process and fairness.

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes 

Download the full policy paper

Key insights

AI competency is essential

Judges and court professionals must develop AI expertise to maintain public trust and confidence.

Transparency and privacy matter

Courts must establish clear standards for AI-generated documents, chatbots, and automated decisions.

AI can enhance court administration

Artificial intelligence tools can improve case processing, document review, and legal research, but human oversight is critical.

AI in the courts

40

states have adopted rules requiring legal professionals to maintain technological competence.

65%

of organizations are already regularly using AI in legal processes, according to a 2024 industry survey.

100M+

ChatGPT users within two months of launch, showing the rapid adoption of AI in everyday decision-making.

COSCA Justin Forkner, State Court Administrator – Indiana

What is COSCA?

The Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA) brings together top court leaders to develop policies that enhance court efficiency, access to justice, and judicial independence. This policy paper reflects COSCA's commitment to guiding courts through the evolving landscape of AI.

FAQs

Gain more AI insights

Read recommendations on AI governance, transparency, and ethical implementation in state courts.