In a historic move that signals the digitization of Pakistan’s legal system, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has officially approved the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for drafting court judgments. This decision marks a major leap forward in modernizing the country’s judiciary and improving the speed and accuracy of legal decision-making.

According to court sources, AI technology will initially be used to assist judges in generating draft judgments by analyzing legal precedents, case details, and relevant laws. Final decisions will still be reviewed and approved by human judges to maintain legal oversight and ensure fairness.

Why AI in Judiciary?

The primary goal of integrating AI into the judiciary is to tackle Pakistan’s massive case backlog, ensure timely delivery of justice, and streamline the judicial process. With thousands of cases pending across various courts, the move is seen as a much-needed innovation to improve efficiency.

How It Works

The AI system will use natural language processing (NLP) and legal databases to suggest possible verdicts based on case facts. It will also help reduce human error and increase consistency in legal interpretation. However, it will not operate independently—judges will maintain full control and accountability for every judgment.

Benefits Expected:

  • Faster case processing
  • Reduced backlog
  • Improved consistency in legal reasoning
  • Enhanced transparency
  • Support for overburdened judges

Concerns and Safeguards

While the decision has been widely praised, legal experts have also raised concerns about data privacy, algorithmic bias, and over-reliance on machines. In response, the Supreme Court has assured that AI tools will be introduced in phases with full data protection protocols and human oversight.

What This Means for Pakistan

This decision places Pakistan among the few countries experimenting with AI in the legal sector. It reflects a broader push toward digital governance and smart justice, paving the way for future innovations in the legal landscape.

As AI continues to reshape industries worldwide, its inclusion in the Pakistani judiciary could be a game-changer in delivering faster, smarter, and more accessible justice.