ROLE OF AI IN ACCESS TO JUSTICE AND LEGAL SERVICES

ABSTRACT 

Artificial intelligence is necessarily the first comprehensive attempt to invite changes in the conventional practices of attaining justice. It has a significant role in the legal profession accompanied by certain challenges and considerations that generate a push towards new techniques and methods, The new technology has been subject to many controversies regarding its ambit of application and sufficiency in the legal profession. Many questions are generated over the implications of AI questioning how society shall respond to growing trends. There exists a clear interplay between law and AI so it becomes important to verify its intensity of public acceptance. Along with specific solutions as to how one can adapt to the changing needs of society with the introduction of AI under law 

KEYWORDS  

Artificial Intelligence, Conventional practice, Justice, Ambit of application, legal profession, Implications, public acceptance, solutions 

INTRODUCTION

In recent times AI technology has had a crucial role to play. The future seems bright, completely revolutionized through the use of AI. It is one of the latest topics of discussion now and then. Much research has been done to get an idea about how AI can contribute to a specific field. we can use it in the field of law to impart justice and equality in society as well. Although many debates have been done on the potential risks involved in AI certain people needless to say that AI would at the same time cause great advantages that no other invention coils bring in present times. with the growing trend of AI, its roots are spreading all over the world so many examples show how legal developments have used AI to improve access to justice and legal services.

Essentially what matters is how AI can be useful in legal education. How can it contribute to transforming the older practices and replacing them with modern new ones? We must understand the impact of AI in legal practices, and its imperative role in access to justice and legal services but we must keep in mind certain ethical considerations while using it. Things have started to actively change in the legal field where the contribution percentages of AI have actively increased. It would be safe to say that AI would be one of the biggest revolutions in humankind, if approached with proper objectives and strategies it can call for some commendable changes in different fields be it law or any other domain. The legal field would serve as a great example of how AI and humans can work together to improve the quality, time, and efficiency of legal justice delivery.

The primary objective of this research paper is to acknowledge changes that will be introduced in the legal field after the coming of AI. outcomes this innovation would bring, how will it be different from the traditional practice and way of legal proceedings? The implication of AI and its acceptance in society in general regarding the same also mention the drawbacks attached that can disintegrate the very foundation of society and how these limitations can be overcome in the present scenario.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The paper is based on information collected from secondary sources stating the deep analysis of how imperative AI is in the legal field. The study revolves around the use of AI its impact and implementation in present society plus the sole requirement of skills for its efficient usage. It is descriptive while the sources of information are articles, review journals, blogs, and websites. through their analysis, the researcher aims to offer insights into the subfield of ‘ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND LAW’ 

     LITERATURE REVIEW

Things have currently started to hang in the legal field with the help of technology it saves human time and can actively contribute in the field of law. Indeed, it is widely available and easily accessible Artificial intelligence represents a very useful tool for law and legal science. In AI there is a subfield of ‘artificial intelligence and law. This section aims to describe in correlation with the same subfield. How to apply knowledge in AI to solve or at least find the solution to legal problems. At the same time tools and techniques developed to solve specific problems in law. we will try to explore the role of AI in both the legal profession and education It can actively contribute to legal research in the following manner:

SIMPLIFICATION OF LEGAL RESEARCH: AI-powered tools can enhance the accuracy of research making it simple and more socially desirable in terms of attempt. It uses a deductive approach through which the vast amount of data present on a particular topic be it cases, reports, articles, or commentaries can provide wholesome information of a particular topic and also represent the different aspects in one single topic for example in some judgments opinions are covered on varied aspects on constitution be it about preamble or about federalism so detailed research becomes integral to get a fair idea regarding any sub-topic In such cases AI can simplify the process of research 

FLEXIBLE LEARNING AND VIRTUAL GUIDANCE 

When any learning is done through a virtual platform it automatically becomes adaptive learning. giving the learners the flexibility and an opportunity to understand the material at their own pace. These personalized learning experiences will be set according to the merit and interest of each individual. Enabling them to get sufficient information about any particular domain of law and gaining a specialty in the same.[1]

AI-DRIVEN DOCUMENT REVIEW 

It can categorize large volumes of documents and help in figuring the ratio decidendi as per the requirement of the user. The time-absorbing task of document review will become easy, precise, and spontaneous at the same time1

IMPROVED QUALITY OF WORK 

It generates a higher value of work because all the relevant internal and external references can be determined. This just helps to organize the area of focus where users know what to read. This would just save time and encourage them to use their analytical skills and think of alternative solutions that AI may not provide. The comparative study between cases, assessing the precedents, and differentiating the obiter dictum and ratio decidendi won’t be a troublesome task.2

AI IN LEGAL SYSTEM A ROAD TO JUSTICE 

AI USED FOR RISK ASSESSMENT 

When any legal proceeding starts from any court the smart modern firms already identify the relevant information and then form strategies based on that. Out of the massive and large information that is present now they can point out the potential risks and further make sensible decisions based on the same[2] 

AI SOFTWARE INCLINATION TOWARD CLIENT INTEREST 

Helping the layers to ignore redundancy makes the initial tasks less time-consuming the layers will be able to interact more with their clients forming a rapport with them, client counseling figuring out the important aspects and paying more attention to minuscular details of the case thus making the very foundation of case strong in itself and at the same time keeping the client base informed about stage of legal proceedings.2

A TOOL FOR PREDICTION OR RISK ASSESSMENT

When any legal proceeding starts from any court the smart modern firms already identify the relevant information and then form strategies based on that. Out of the massive and large information that is present now they can point out the potential risks and further make sensible decisions based on the same. It is also useful in predicting the results of the case, through historical research assessing the patterns present and further using them. It can act as an aid for legal practitioners in fulfilling the expectations of clients.2

MAINTAINING RECORDS -KEEPING ALL INFORMATION INTACT 

By tracking the deadlines, and the record of courts all relevant information can be stored under one head safely reducing the scope of human errors. This even helps in reducing paperwork enhances efficiency and enables proper process of proceedings 

ONLINE PLATFORM SETTLEMENT APPROACH

Many platforms are currently present online that seek to resolve the dispute laying down the solution following the very foundation of law. These AI algorithms can be really useful in quickly and affordably getting access to justice free from biases without any requirement of traditional court proceedings. 

 FREE LEGAL AID FOR USERS 

The users to protect their rights can use some highly developed online platforms assisted with AI technology providing free legal assistance and suggestions to people all over the world regarding different laws and even laws of different countries. It can be really helpful, especially for that stratum of society that finds uneasiness in going for traditional time-consuming, and at times expensive proceedings 

LAWHELP 

Assist the users with legal documentation or review of any contract figuring out the loopholes and suggestive changes, especially in small businesses regarding the preparation of their legal documents. For various legal matters. especially the AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants which can at least provide basic legal knowledge guidance and support in the journey to justice. like Legal Zoom is an online platform that provides users with AI-driven tools to assist individuals and small businesses with legal document preparation, contract review, and other legal needs  

EASY DOCUMENT DELIVERY 

an Australian company has already initiated a chatbot for clients who are seeking for solutions maintaining privacy. the instant conversation interface and can provide consumers with law information and generate policies specific to the needs of clients it is also associated will the automated delivery of relevant legal documents

NEW INNOVATIONS IN LAW PRACTICE

AI has undoubtedly made roads inside the legal industry. It can be advantageous for small law firms they get access to material that was limited to some famous law firms earlier. Due to tools available almost in every area of legal research, it will form a way for new advancements like  Lyn Lucas through the use of technology to set up an online divorce lawyer despite being based in Newcastle this firm has an opportunity to provide its services all over the land then. Law Path is another example of an Australian business based on the sharing economy model. It offers clients a network of as many as 700 lawyers.3

MEETING THE ENDS 

Two different firms have always been on the end of the legal spectrum but never met. Some exclusive resources with famous firms made them maintain high-quality standardized work with an efficient workforce. AI changes everything. A single-lawyer firm, with the right AI tool, is just as likely to find the relevant information. as any other group of legal advisors in big firms[3]

IMPACT ON SKILLS DUE TO AI AND NEW REQUIREMENTS

Where AI is popularizing, Millennials will have more active contributions to the world’s workforce they are still active contributors to the GDP of many countries but it must be noted that there will be a requirement to work across the digital spectrum of many industries to survive in this dynamic AI operative economy. The employers will be challenged to apply new mindsets including thinking beyond the bars and presenting something unheard from what has already been assessed. It would be critical to what learning and development would mean in their respective fields; it won’t be a task for AI to provide some solutions that almost every individual can access. The requirement would be to work beyond that. Many reports have proven that future fields will require skills inclusive of digital know-how, problem-thinking, creativity, entrepreneurship, strong analytical skills, and complex problem-solving. Such characteristics that would separate humans from machines like management quality, leadership, empathy, creativity, and curiosity would have more significance in the education and recruitment of future lawyers. New programs will be introduced on how to operate AI wisely and efficiently. The nature of challenges would also differ, contract and project-based.[4]

IMPLICATIONS OF AI AND PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE

 Irrespective of any impact on the number of jobs especially at ground level there will be a change like jobs required in the legal field. The change in the employment structure will be accompanied by a change in the organizational structure as well, the traditional methods would be overlooked which can cause a potential risk of inequalities in society between the desirable skills. The earnings distribution will thus be impacted. however, it must be noted that AI limitations are currently socio-technical so it becomes certainly important for the machine designer to determine how healthy relations can be built between people and machines. how harmony can be maintained enabling machines to make the best use of human creativity and skills instead of just simply replacing them4   

 The popular notion of how AI can cause loss of opportunities depends on who uses it and for what purpose. Some reports like that of the NITI Aayog named, ‘National Strategy on Artificial Intelligence’, discussed the challenges, focus areas, and global development of AI. It also stated concerns related to privacy, infringement of some moral rights, lack of awareness of people regarding AI and its application in their business, low intensity of AI research, and low awareness for adopting AI in business processes, can be some of the stepping stones in successful development of AI.[5]

Chief JusticeJohn G. Roberts Jr. predicts that judicial work particularly at the trial level can be affected by AI but this would include analysis of how AI has been used in a particular case law. In his 2023 annual report, he emphasized the importance of humans in courts in upholding the trust of people in the judicial system as they tend to expect more fairness, equality, and empathy from a human judge/lawyer rather than a machine. But concerning the upcoming revolution, it is important to have knowledge of law and AI technology at the same time.[6]

SUGGESTIONS 

It is now clear that AI is a double-edged sword just like we can earn benefits from its applications we need to be ready for the evils associated with such novel technology. its application has been successful in many places but certain disadvantages are also attached to it. As a result, it becomes extremely important to primarily generate awareness in people about the application of AI and how it can have a sincere contribution in the field which problems will be overlooked and how will the structure become more efficient and inexpensive, because reports prove that only less than 10% lawyers are access AI tools. At the same time, it becomes essential to introduce people to the risks associated with it. This causes them to take some precautionary steps to maintain a collaborative relationship with machines where both components can make the best use of each other’s skills. certain statutory laws shall also be introduced to safeguard the interests of practitioners as well as clients. people believe that AI would bring great levels of unemployment but it would just require the set of skills to be changed if entry levels of jobs decline there will be a change in organizational structure and new or enhanced skills/ set of skill requirements will also change AI today lack general intelligence and the issue of liability around legal system could increase the need of legal support. thus, if used wisely AI can be an opening gate for many new opportunities.

CONCLUSION 

The active use of AI-generated technology in every dimension would also include its contribution to the field of law from documentation to providing pro bono legal advice then sorting the conflicts on online platforms and so on, accompanied by some important implications of AI. It can get the work done in less time more effectively and efficiently. There is the intersection of AI and Law at many levels has revolutionized many sectors of industry and law is no exception. This technology can simplify and organize the process increasing access to justice and overall enhancing the domain of law. So, it becomes our responsibility to make the best use of this innovation along with the required precautions to modernize the traditional structure of accessing justice and legal education.

 


[1] Samriddhi Sharma, the role of artificial intelligence in legal education and the legal profession, legal service India, March 17, 2024, time:19;06, https://www.legalserviceindia.com/legal/article-12037-role-of-artificial-intelligence-in-legal-education-and-legal-profession.html

[2]Manupatra,https://www.manupatra.com/corporate/Blog/AI-in-legal.aspx(last visited march 17,2024)

[3] LexisNexis, https://www.lexisnexis.com.au/en/insights-and-analysis/practice-intelligence/2018/Lawyer-vs-AI-A-legal-revolution, ( last visited March 17, 2024)

[4] AI(ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE) and Legal profession, The Law Society, The Law Society, https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/research/ai-artificial-intelligence-and-the-legal-profession

[5]Ananth Kini, Artificial intelligence and the legal profession: An intelligent way ahead, BAR AND BENCH, March 17, 2024 time 19:15, https://www.barandbench.com/columns/artificial-intelligence-and-legal-profession-an-intelligent-way-ahead

[6]Judges’  Journal, Artificial Intelligence In the courts: Best practices, benefits, and challenges, Winter 2024, 63 No.1 judgesJ’1, west law classic,https://1.next.westlaw.com/Search/Results.html?query=judges%20journal&isPremiumAdvanceSearch=False&saveJuris=False&contentType=ANALYTICAL&querySubmissionGuid=i0ad6ad3b0000018e4cbcdf68f1bd058a&startIndex=1&categoryPageUrl=Home%2FArtificialIntelligenceLegalMaterialsNews%2FArtificialIntelligenceSecondarySources&searchId=i0ad6ad3b0000018e4cbcdf68f1bd058a&kmSearchIdRequested=False&simpleSearch=False&isAdvancedSearchTemplatePage=False&skipSpellCheck=False&isTrDiscoverSearch=False&thesaurusSearch=False&thesaurusTermsApplied=False&ancillaryChargesAccepted=False&proviewEligible=False&eventingTypeOfSearch=NAT&trailingSpace=False&citationSortable=False&useNonBillableZoneClientId=False&transitionType=Search&contextData=%28sc.Search%29#I3d32c7a2d6ca11ee8921fbef1a541940