The Promise and Shortcomings of Artificial Intelligence in the Federal Courts

Chief Justice John Roberts explores the world of artificial intelligence in his annual report, highlighting its potential and pitfalls within the legal profession.

In his year-end report, Chief Justice John Roberts directs our attention to the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the federal courts. Interestingly, he avoids mentioning Supreme Court ethics or any legal controversies surrounding Donald Trump, instead focusing on the "latest technological frontier" that is AI.

Roberts delves into a discussion about the advantages and disadvantages of computer-generated content in the legal profession. He addresses a recent case involving ex-Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, where AI-generated fake legal citations infiltrated official court records. The Chief Justice emphasizes that using AI always poses potential risks, cautioning that any utilization of this technology must be approached with both care and humility.

Nevertheless, Roberts acknowledges the positive aspects of employing AI in the courts, particularly when it comes to enhancing access for those with limited financial resources. He highlights how these innovative tools can help bridge the gap between available resources and the urgent needs within our court system.

This report concludes a year filled with controversy surrounding the justices' ethical practices. In response to mounting criticism, the Supreme Court took action by adopting its first code of conduct. While much of the scrutiny was directed at Justice Clarence Thomas for his failure to disclose travel, hospitality, and financial ties with influential conservative donors such as Harlan Crow and the Koch brothers, Justices Samuel Alito and Sonia Sotomayor also faced their fair share of examination.

Overall, Chief Justice Roberts invites us to recognize both the promises and potential drawbacks of AI in the legal realm. As we embrace these technological advancements, it is crucial to proceed with prudence and maintain a steadfast commitment to justice.

The Role of Judges and the Impact of Technology

As the country moves into an election year, the Supreme Court is poised to be involved in ongoing criminal cases against former President Trump and his potential inclusion on the 2024 ballot. Chief Justice Roberts, along with his eight colleagues, rarely discusses cases that come before the Court. Instead, he has focused on advocating for increased security and salaries for federal judges, acknowledging their resilience during the pandemic, and addressing technological advancements in the court system.

Roberts, known for comparing judges to umpires, now turns to tennis to convey his point about the irreplaceability of judges by technology. He highlights that optical technology has taken over the role of human line judges in determining whether a serve is in or out at tennis tournaments. With precision to the millimeter, there is no room for interpretation; the ball either hits the line or it doesn't. However, legal matters often involve gray areas that necessitate human judgment.

Looking ahead, Roberts expresses caution about the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the courts. While he believes that human judges will remain an essential part of the legal system for the foreseeable future, he acknowledges that AI will significantly impact judicial work, particularly at the trial level.

In conclusion, Chief Justice Roberts underscores the importance of human judgment in legal determinations, especially when faced with nuanced situations that require a thoughtful application of the law. While technology may increasingly play a role in certain aspects of the judiciary, the human element will continue to be indispensable.