Guidelines for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Canadian Courts

The Canadian Judicial Council (CJC) has released Guidelines for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Canadian Courts:

 

"These Guidelines aim to provide Canadian judges with a principled framework for understanding the extent to which AI tools can be used appropriately to support or enhance the judicial role. The objective is twofold: to establish a rationale for a consistent approach to the utilization of AI in Canadian courts and to shed light on both the opportunities and risks inherent in AI’s potential incursion into court administration and judicial decision-making. We hope this guidance can also serve as the basis for a more standardized approach to judicial education across all jurisdictions in order to foster continued competence as these systems evolve (...)"

"Formulating AI guidelines at this juncture necessitates a delicate balance between  embracing innovation and acknowledging that many of the ramifications of this potent technology remain uncharted. Established values and fundamental principles must not be discarded solely due to the pressures of modernization. At the same time, AI shows promise in providing innovative solutions to longstanding practical challenges within the justice system."

"Consequently, this modest endeavour proposes to adhere to three guiding principles: (1) Awareness and Education, (2) Caution and (3) Leadership."

The CJC's  role is to ensure the proper conduct of federally appointed judges and to improve the quality of judicial services, court management and technology. It is chaired by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada.