As the digital revolution continues to shape industries across the globe, the legal profession is not immune to its transformative powers. Artificial Intelligence (AI), once thought of as science fiction, is now significantly changing the field of law. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a nation known for its progressive outlook, AI’s influence on the legal landscape is poised to redefine how legal professionals work, deliver services, and interact with clients. AI offers an array of capabilities that are changing the way legal tasks are accomplished. From automating repetitive processes to analyzing vast datasets for insights, AI is proving to be a game-changer for law firms, judicial departments, and the broader legal ecosystem.
AI’s Influence on UAE’s Legal System
The UAE government understands the value of implementing artificial intelligence to improve its services. This AI adoption extends to the court and judicial departments, where it is being actively integrated to boost efficiency and effectiveness in multiple facets of the legal process.
In the year 2021, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department introduced the world’s first AI-driven interactive case filing service. The objective of this service is to facilitate the submission of cases by court users, allowing them to engage with the digital service, where they input data to identify the case’s category and the appropriate court. The innovative digital measures and solutions implemented by the Judicial Department are solidifying its position as a global leader. This is particularly evident with the introduction of the 100% remote litigation program, a key component of its new 2021-2023 Strategic Plan. This plan is designed to enhance the satisfaction of court users by offering cutting-edge judicial and legal services. It strives to create a unique and exceptional experience by harnessing technological advancements and incorporating AI-driven smart services.
With the objective of expediting legal proceedings in court, the Ministry of Justice had, by May 2015, converted 95 percent of its services into electronic services. Among these services is the ability to inquire about the status of a case, allowing individuals to access the hearing schedule online. AI plays a pivotal role in the ministry’s efforts to streamline case management. The Case Management System facilitates the electronic submission of documents, significantly reducing delays in civil court cases. Moreover, it enhances efficiency by ensuring that information is readily accessible to all parties involved.
In Dubai, the DIFC Courts introduced the world’s inaugural International Digital Economy Court. They devised standardized intelligent forms to facilitate information processing via a dynamic AI-powered platform. In alignment with the court’s commitment to a paperless environment, proceedings will also be conducted through advanced digital systems.
Dubai Courts Department has introduced a smart and electronic notary service, enabling customers to access notary public services conveniently at their own doorstep. The new platform enables customers to carry out their transactions from the comfort of their homes or any other location at any time, without the need to visit the notary public.
In July 2023, Dubai initiated the creation of the world’s inaugural digital judicial rental system, accessible to litigants both domestically and internationally. This groundbreaking system harnesses AI for data analysis and the issuance of judgments, minimizing the need for human involvement. The outcomes generated by the program are reviewed and verified by a judge before being distributed to the concerned parties.
Ethical Considerations and Regulatory Approaches
As the UAE embraces AI in the legal field, it is imperative to address ethical considerations. Confidentiality, data security, data privacy, and transparency are paramount concerns when implementing AI tools. The UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain has been entrusted with the responsibility of suggesting policies that foster an environment conducive to AI. Its mandate includes advancing research in this field and encouraging partnerships between public and private sectors, including international organizations, to expedite the adoption of AI. The National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, a pivotal component of the UAE’s 10-year strategic plan, plays a central role in the nation’s AI ambitions. The vision is for the UAE to emerge as a prominent global leader in AI by 2031. This strategy adopts an all-encompassing approach, concentrating on bolstering the country’s capabilities and leveraging global expertise to forge cutting-edge technological solutions for both the public and private sectors. Additionally, it aims to establish legal and organizational frameworks that promote the responsible integration of AI.
In 2023, the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications Office released “AI Ethics: Principles and Guidelines.” This publication aims to provide guidance to both the public and private sectors in ensuring the ethical development and implementation of AI systems. The UAE has unveiled a comprehensive ‘Generative AI’ guide for harnessing Generative AI applications. This guide offers a thorough overview of Generative AI, delving into the potentials and obstacles of various digital technologies while providing optimal strategies for their efficient administration. It places a significant emphasis on safeguarding data privacy and elucidates strategies for capitalizing on these technologies. This will help government entities to maximize the advantages of AI technologies across diverse sectors and equip the community with top-tier digital solutions, promoting the widespread implementation of advanced technology across various domains.
Conclusion
AI’s ongoing evolution will undoubtedly further improve the UAE’s legal system. The integration of AI aids legal professionals in streamlining operations, improving accuracy, and enhancing client services. However, while AI promises transformative benefits, it also poses challenges that require thoughtful consideration and regulatory adjustments. The incorporation of AI into the legal system should be executed in a manner that guarantees data quality and impartiality. Additional technological improvements must be taken into consideration concerning data privacy and security. As AI continues to shape the legal landscape, the UAE’s legal community stands at the forefront of innovation, prepared to harness technology’s power for the betterment of the public and the practice of law.
Download the article here.