AI in Chambers: A Framework for Judicial AI Use
Today I am releasing AI in Chambers: A Framework for Judicial AI Use, a practical guide for judges and their staff who are considering or already using AI tools in their chambers.
This is not a technical manual or a recommendation that every judge begin using AI. It is simply a structured approach for those who have decided to explore these tools. The decision depends on your comfort level, your court’s policies, and available resources. For many, waiting may be the right choice.
But for those ready to proceed, this framework offers a disciplined methodology and rests on a principle I’ve found useful:
AI is a tool that belongs in the workflow, but not on the bench.
These tools can organize filings, synthesize briefs, summarize transcripts, and accelerate drafting. But they cannot think like a judge, understand nuance, or weigh credibility. The burden of getting it right remains entirely with the judge.
The attached guide reflects this reality through clear, judge-controlled phases. Each step preserves ownership, verification, and judicial independence.
AI is already entering our profession. This guide attempts to provide one framework for thoughtful engagement with appropriate safeguards.
Please feel free to share it, criticize it or ignore it. The path forward will vary among courts, and this framework will certainly need refinement based on our collective experience.
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