This is not theoretical. Real-world implementations of AI and software as a service (SaaS) have already led to measurable improvements in judicial efficiency. Courts that embrace these innovations today will be positioned to meet the increasing demands of tomorrow. The question is no longer why modernize — it's how.
The legal system has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of society. However, courts are currently confronted with urgent challenges that necessitate immediate modernization. Judicial resources are being overwhelmed by case backlogs, which in turn delay justice and undermine public confidence. At the same time, cybersecurity threats have surged, with a 95 percent increase in government cyber attacks reported in the latter half of 2022. Additionally, shifts in criminal justice reforms are causing fluctuations in case volumes and alterations in legal processes, compelling courts to quickly adapt. Moreover, an aging infrastructure coupled with limited funding is making it increasingly difficult for courts to keep pace with escalating demands.
In this environment, modernizing court technology has become essential. Courts that do not embrace AI-driven automation and cloud-based systems are likely to face significant challenges in maintaining operational efficiency and delivering fair, timely justice.
AI IN THE JUSTICE SYSTEM
One of the biggest misconceptions about AI in the courts is that it will replace jobs. This is not the case. Instead, AI serves to enhance the workforce by automating repetitive tasks, which reduces staff burnout and allows employees to focus on higher-value work.
The positive impacts of non-generative AI are already evident in several U.S. courts. For instance, Tarrant County, Texas, has reduced document processing times from 48 hours to mere minutes, thereby freeing staff for more critical tasks. In Charlotte County, Fla., automated docketing has reached an accuracy of 98 percent, effectively eliminating bottlenecks. And Palm Beach County, Fla., saved $2 million by integrating AI into their filing processes, which enhanced both speed and precision.
In essence, rather than replacing human employees, AI empowers courts to accomplish more with limited resources, ensuring timely case resolutions and improved public service.
SaaS IS THE FUTURE OF COURT SYSTEMS
Most court systems continue to depend on on-premises infrastructure, which not only incurs high maintenance costs but also proves difficult to scale and remains susceptible to cyber attacks. In contrast, cloud-based SaaS solutions represent a significant strategic advancement.
SaaS solutions alleviate IT burdens by eliminating the need for on-site servers, which allows IT teams to focus more on innovation rather than maintenance. Additionally, these solutions enhance security through built-in data protection, disaster recovery and real-time monitoring. They also excel in scalability, easily adjusting to the evolving needs of court systems unlike rigid legacy systems and improve cost efficiency by replacing large upfront infrastructure investments with predictable, manageable subscription fees.
The transition to SaaS has already shown promising results. For example, North Carolina’s Administrative Office of the Courts made a notable shift to SaaS, leading to the elimination of 4 million sheets of paper annually via electronic filings, enhanced efficiency of court processes across the state, and ensured that 94 percent of citations are now filed digitally. Similarly, DeKalb County, Ga., moved to a SaaS model after enduring a decade of challenges with its on-premises setup. This shift has unlocked better security, generated cost savings and led to substantial improvements in efficiency.
These examples underline the clear benefits: Adopting SaaS extends beyond a mere technological upgrade. It is a crucial modernization strategy that ensures the justice system is well-equipped to meet future demands efficiently and securely.
ENSURING EQUITY AND ACCESSIBILITY
As courts embrace advancements like AI, automation and cloud-based systems, it's critical that these technologies do not create new barriers to justice. To this end, courts must focus on enhancing accessibility rather than limiting it. This involves providing user-friendly interfaces that accommodate individuals with limited technology skills and ensuring that underrepresented communities have equitable access.
Transparency is also paramount — courts must clearly demonstrate how these technologies improve efficiency and effectiveness. This can be done by making analytics accessible to the public, thereby maintaining the integrity and trust of the judicial process.
The justice system is at a crossroads. The courts that leverage AI and SaaS strategically will improve efficiency, increase public trust and position themselves for long-term success. Those that delay modernization risk growing backlogs, resource constraints and cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Modernizing courts is not about technology for technology’s sake. It is about future-proofing justice, ensuring that courts can serve their communities effectively in an era where digital transformation is no longer optional.
The courts of tomorrow will not be defined by whether they adopt AI and SaaS — but by how well they do it.
Brian McGrath is president of the Courts and Justice Division at Tyler Technologies.
