Artificial Intelligence Can Handle Routine Tasks, Freeing Lawyers' Time For High-Value Work: CJI DY Chandrachud

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can significantly enhance the efficiency of the legal profession. Drawing a parallel to how lawyers have previously adapted to technological advancements, he expressed confidence that they would similarly embrace AI.

Speaking at the inaugural address of a two-day National Conference on "The Landscape of Technology in Courts in India and the Way Forward" at the Chandigarh Judicial Academy, the CJI highlighted the transformative impact of technology on the legal field. He noted that younger lawyers have been "freed from hours of mundane tasks," allowing them to concentrate on developing core skills like rigorous legal analysis, persuasive writing, and thoughtful problem-solving—skills that are fundamental to the profession.

"I believe that the transition to Artificial Intelligence will mirror the earlier embrace of technology by lawyers. It will augment efficiency without impacting the foundational skills of our profession," CJI Chandrachud stated.

He underscored the importance of welcoming AI for automatable tasks while cautioning against its use in areas that require creativity and sophisticated legal argumentation—domains that remain uniquely human. He pointed out that routine tasks such as case law research, filing of pleadings, reviewing contracts, and conducting due diligence can greatly benefit from AI and automation. By delegating these tasks to AI, lawyers can dedicate more time to high-value activities like legal strategy, innovative argumentation, and personalized client services.

"Sophisticated legal argumentation continues to remain in the exclusive realm of human lawyers. However, several routine tasks such as case law research, filing of pleadings, reviewing contracts, and conducting due diligence can deeply benefit from artificial intelligence and automation. In fact, relegating such tasks to artificial intelligence leaves lawyers with more time and bandwidth. They can focus their time on high-value activities such as legal strategy, innovative argumentation and personalized client services," said CJI.

The event was attended by Supreme Court judges Justice Surya Kant and Justice Rajesh Bindal, along with Chief Justices of various High Courts and judges of the Punjab & Haryana High Court.

Use Of Technology Intrinsically Linked To Values Of Transparency, Democracy, And Equitable Access To Justice

CJI said that technology being a tool to access justice is not just a modern convenience or a trendy topic – "it is deeply intertwined with the very foundations of our republic."

"Not only does the use of technology make our courts more accountable and responsive, but it also brings people closer to the courtroom. The use of technology is intrinsically linked to the values of transparency, democracy, and equitable access to justice," CJI stated.

Giving example of live streaming of court proceedings and virtual hearings, the CJI said, "It is quintessential example of technology augmenting transparency in our judicial system."

"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 the best legal representation is accessible to our citizens. Significantly, even litigants can now log into their hearings and witness proceedings firsthand," added the CJI.

The CJI referred to the transcripts of arguments before the Constitutional bench in Supreme Court, which are generated using AI in the Supreme Court, stating that it is a valuable resource and source of perspective for lawyers, researchers and academics as well.

"I, too, have found them to be extremely helpful when crafting judgments on complex questions of law. I often find myself revisiting the transcripts to better appreciate the nuances of the arguments before the Court. When future generations interpret our judgments, these recordings will reflect the perspectives of the legal minds that shaped our decisions. When interpreting landmark judgments, future generations will be able to better contextualize the observations of our court by reviewing the arguments presented. In this way, transparency not only makes our institution more accountable but also enhances the quality of our jurisprudence," said CJI.

The CJI further said technology is also aiding in breaking linguistic barriers in our diverse country for people to engage with the judiciary, particularly higher courts which use English.

"Here too technology has emerged as a powerful enabler. With the help of an artificial intelligence software called Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software or SUVAS, the Supreme Court is actively translating its judgements and orders into regional languages. We are working hard to expand this initiative and translate the judgements of the Supreme Court in all scheduled languages," CJI said.

At the end CJI Chandrachud extended his warmest wishes for a productive conference, and said "my colleagues from the Supreme Court would undoubtedly will return with a bag full of ideas to implement in our court"..."may this conference spark meaningful connections, ignite fresh ideas, and drive progress in our shared pursuit of justice.