Introduction to AI in Courtrooms
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in courtrooms is becoming increasingly common, raising concerns about its potential impact on the justice system. A recent case in Phoenix, Arizona, highlighted the complexities of using AI in court when a victim’s family used an AI-generated video to deliver a press release during a sentencing hearing. The video featured a likeness of the victim, Christopher Pelkey, forgiving the shooter. This unprecedented use of AI in a courtroom has sparked debate in regards to the role of technology within the justice system.
The Case in Arizona
The case involved the sentencing of a person who had shot and killed Christopher Pelkey. During the hearing, the victim’s sister, Stacey Wales, presented an AI-generated video featuring her brother’s likeness. The video was a surprise to everyone within the courtroom, including the judge and the defendant’s lawyer. The judge was moved by the video and sentenced the shooter to 10.5 years in prison, the utmost possible sentence. The defendant’s lawyer has since filed an appeal, arguing that the judge improperly relied on the AI-generated video when sentencing his client.
The Growing Presence of AI in Courtrooms
The use of AI in courtrooms will not be limited to the Arizona case. In Florida, a judge used a virtual reality headset to view a defendant’s perspective during a trial. In New York, a person used an AI-generated avatar to argue his case in a lawsuit via video. These examples illustrate the growing presence of AI within the justice system and the necessity for courts to develop guidelines for its use.
Concerns About AI in Courtrooms
Experts have raised concerns in regards to the potential impact of AI on the justice system. One concern is that AI might be used to govern judges and juries, potentially resulting in unfair outcomes. Another concern is that the usage of AI could disproportionately affect marginalized communities, who may not have the resources to access and utilize the technology. David Evan Harris, an authority on AI deep fakes, notes that AI could be very persuasive and that students are studying the intersection of the technology and manipulation tactics.
The Need for Guidelines
As the usage of AI in courtrooms becomes more common, there’s a growing need for guidelines and regulations to be certain that the technology is used fairly and transparently. Cynthia Godsoe, a law professor at Brooklyn Law School, notes that courts could have to confront questions on the authenticity and reliability of AI-generated evidence. The Arizona Supreme Court has already established a committee to research best practices for the usage of AI in courtrooms.
The Human Impact
The use of AI in courtrooms will not be only a technical issue, but additionally a human one. In the Arizona case, the victim’s sister, Stacey Wales, used the AI-generated video to offer her brother a voice and to humanize him within the eyes of the judge. The video was a strong reminder of the impact of crime on victims and their families. As the usage of AI in courtrooms continues to evolve, it is crucial to contemplate the human impact and to be certain that the technology is utilized in a way that’s fair, transparent, and respectful of all parties involved.
Conclusion
The use of AI in courtrooms is a fancy and evolving issue. While AI has the potential to reinforce the justice system, it also raises concerns about fairness, transparency, and manipulation. As courts proceed to grapple with the implications of AI, it is crucial to develop guidelines and regulations that make sure the technology is utilized in a way that’s fair and respectful of all parties involved. Ultimately, the goal of the justice system is to deliver fair and just outcomes, and the usage of AI have to be aligned with this goal.
