Artificial intelligence (AI) has impacted case management making legal research quicker (Microsoft, 2026). AI-powered tools have significantly transformed the legal research process (Microsoft, 2026).

AI can dramatically increase the speed at which legal research can be done, allowing lawyers to streamline the process of preparing for cases (Microsoft, 2026). AI can also assist in drafting legal briefs, reviewing legal documents and analyzing contracts (Microsoft, 2026). Tools such as natural language processing (NLP) algorithms enable rapid analysis of legal documents, judgments, statutes, and scholarly articles. This capability not only expedites research but also enhances the accuracy of information retrieval (Microsoft, 2026).

Using AI to Enhance Decision Making

AI is excellent at conducting thorough research, analyzing information, and drafting legal tasks. Implementing AI technology in court processes 

frees staff to focus on critical aspects of legal cases, allowing them to perceive nuances, gain context, connect the dots, and build stronger legal cases to enhance judicial outcomes (Microsoft, 2026).  

AI should be used by the courts to educate, empower, encourage, and promote critical thinking on the laws (Microsoft, 2026).

AI can also assist federal prosecutors in streamlining case management (Microsoft, 2026). By utilizing AI-driven tools, prosecutors can analyze large volumes of case law and precedent quickly, identifying patterns and potential outcomes that would take human legal teams significantly longer to uncover (Microsoft, 2026). This efficiency can expedite the judicial process (Microsoft, 2026).

Enhancing Access to Justice

Access to fair and timely due process through the judicial system is foundational and essential to our nation’s democracy (Microsoft, 2026). However, as courts continue to face growing demands, staffing shortages, and case backlogs, access to timely due process and justice is threatened (Microsoft, 2026). Integrating AI technology into court processes enhances resource management, improves efficiency, ensures timely case resolutions, and speeds access to justice for courts at every level (Microsoft, 2026).

References

Microsoft. (2026). Copilot [Large language model]. https://copilot.microsoft.com

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Mark Bond has worked in law enforcement and has been a firearms instructor for more than 34 years. His law enforcement experience includes the military, local, state, and federal levels as a police officer and criminal investigator. Mark obtained a BS and MS in criminal justice, and M.Ed in educational leadership with Summa Cum Laude honors. Mark has a doctoral degree in education (EdD) with a concentration in college teaching and learning. Mark is currently an associate professor of human justice studies and teaches undergraduate and graduate criminal justice courses.