Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud recently emphasised the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to significantly improve the efficiency of the legal profession, drawing a comparison to how lawyers have previously adapted to technological changes. Speaking at the National Conference on “The Landscape of Technology in Courts in India and the Way Forward” held at the Chandigarh Judicial Academy, CJI Chandrachud expressed confidence that the legal community would embrace AI just as they have other technological advancements.
During his inaugural address at the two-day event, CJI Chandrachud highlighted how technology has transformed the legal landscape, particularly for younger lawyers. He noted that AI could relieve lawyers from time-consuming tasks, allowing them to focus on essential skills such as legal analysis, persuasive writing, and problem-solving.
“I believe the transition to Artificial Intelligence will be similar to the legal profession’s previous embrace of technology. It will enhance efficiency without diminishing the core skills that define our profession,” CJI Chandrachud remarked.
However, he stressed that while AI could be valuable for automating routine tasks, it should not be relied upon for areas that require creativity and complex legal reasoning, tasks that remain within the domain of human expertise. He cited examples of tasks such as case law research, contract review, and due diligence as areas where AI could be particularly beneficial, freeing lawyers to focus on more strategic aspects of their work.
“Sophisticated legal argumentation will continue to be the purview of human lawyers. However, AI and automation can significantly benefit routine tasks like case law research, filing of pleadings, reviewing contracts, and conducting due diligence. Delegating these tasks to AI allows lawyers more time for high-value activities like legal strategy, innovative argumentation, and personalised client services,” the CJI stated.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Supreme Court Justices Surya Kant and Rajesh Bindal, as well as Chief Justices and judges from various High Courts and the Punjab & Haryana High Court.
CJI Chandrachud also emphasised that the use of technology in the judicial system is not just a modern convenience but is deeply connected to the core values of transparency, democracy, and equitable access to justice. He highlighted how technology has made courts more accountable and accessible to the public.
Using live streaming of court proceedings and virtual hearings as examples, CJI Chandrachud pointed out how technology has enhanced transparency in the judiciary. “This shift amplifies transparency and accountability for all stakeholders, litigants, lawyers, and the public. With hybrid hearings, lawyers can now appear before courts across the country, ensuring that citizens have access to the best legal representation. Even litigants can log into their hearings and witness proceedings firsthand,” he said.
He also referenced the use of AI in generating transcripts of arguments before the Constitutional bench in the Supreme Court. These transcripts, according to the CJI, are valuable resources for lawyers, researchers, and academics, and they contribute to the quality of jurisprudence.
“I, too, have found these transcripts extremely helpful in crafting judgments on complex legal issues. Revisiting them allows me to better understand the nuances of the arguments presented. When future generations interpret our judgments, these recordings will offer insights into the legal minds that shaped our decisions. Transparency, in this way, not only makes our institution more accountable but also enhances the quality of our jurisprudence,” CJI Chandrachud added.
Furthermore, he highlighted the role of technology in breaking down linguistic barriers in India’s diverse judicial landscape. The Supreme Court’s AI-based translation software, Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software (SUVAS), is actively translating judgments and orders into regional languages, making the judiciary more accessible to the public.
In conclusion, CJI Chandrachud extended his best wishes for the conference, expressing hope that it would inspire new ideas and progress in the pursuit of justice. He expressed confidence that his Supreme Court colleagues would leave the conference with valuable insights to implement in their courts.
