A Relfection on AI

Over the last several weeks, I have had the opportunity to explore benefits and drawbacks of AI — particularly in the criminal justice space. The benefits are clear and include enhanced efficiency — in a matter of hours, AI tools can complete tasks that would take hundreds of hours from lawyers. For overloaded line prosecutors and overwhelmed public defenders, this is a huge benefit. On the downside, there is a risk of the technology being unreliable or biased. However, no matter what the pros and cons tell us, the reality is that AI is here to stay and is dramatically reshaping the work that public sector attorneys do. As senior leaders in this space, it is our responsibility to create cultures where AI can be safely introduced and embraced in the workspace.

I have created a series where each Friday I explore the impacts of AI in the criminal justice system. This has been an enlightening experience for me — encouraging me to think through both the pros and cons of adopting new technology. And, it is also important, in my opinion, to think about the different impacts that this technology may have for both prosecutors and public defenders, since the challenges they face may look different. I touch on enhanced efficiency as one of the significant perks — allowing prosecutors to sort through evidence in just minutes or hours, rather than days or weeks. Another pro is the ability for prosecutors offices to keep digital data secure. I also explore the cons of AI as there is a risk of the technology being unreliable, programed with biases and/or used improperly. As senior leaders in this space, it is our responsibility to create cultures where AI can be safely introduced and embraced in the workspace.

AI is an asset which is being popularized in many areas including the criminal justice system. It is here to stay. To learn more please visit our Instagram- @innovative_prosecution