California's court system has adopted new rules governing the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) by judges and court employees. The rules, approved by the California Judicial Council, aim to ensure the responsible use of AI in court operations while maintaining transparency, accountability, and confidentiality.
The new rule outlines permissible uses of AI, such as legal research assistance, procedural form generation, and draft memos. However, AI cannot be used for interpreting evidence, issuing judgments, or accessing sealed documents. Court staff and judicial officers are required to protect sensitive information and use public AI tools judiciously.
The rule also emphasizes the importance of disclosure, requiring judges and staff to disclose AI use in court documents or decisions. This ensures transparency and accountability in the use of AI in court proceedings.
The California Judicial Council has given courts until September 1 to develop AI-related regulations. Courts can either adopt a model AI policy released by the task force or modify it to suit their needs. This move is expected to reshape the legal system in California, promoting digital efficiency while maintaining ethical responsibility.
