Artificial intelligence-driven digitization of legal system in Sri Lanka - A challenging approach

Abstract

The judiciary in Sri Lanka faces serious problems of case backlogs, resulting in inevitable delays in the delivery of justice. This paper considers the possibility of utilising computer technology and artificial intelligence (AI) as a method of overcoming this urgent problem. The introduction of AI-powered tools to study the digitised legal records helps to automate the administrative workload, manage the case flow through predictive analytics, and identify inefficiencies in the system. It aims to streamline the judicial process by ultimately improving the efficiency of Sri Lanka's legal system. Evidence for this proposal is derived from publicly available data, including Ministry of Justice reports and global best practices in digital legal systems. The paper highlights the feasibility of digitalising certain areas of the legal system and implementing AI-based solutions based on successful examples from countries like Australia, China, India, and Singapore. The expected outcomes include faster resolving of cases, reduced administrative burdens, and improved public trust in the legal system, ensuring all citizens have timely access to a more transparent criminal and civil justice system.