The Judiciary, Technology, and the Future of Justice
The judiciary, often likened to the Church and the military, is known as a bastion of conservatism with a deep respect for traditions, precedents, meritocracy, and seniority. However, the recent speech of Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo presents a pleasantly surprising perspective on how the judiciary can embrace technology for the greater good.
Chief Justice Gesmundo acknowledges the transformative impact of technology on the Philippine judiciary. Not only has it revolutionized court processes and operations, but it also has the potential to reshape judicial thinking. Enhanced access to information leads to a comprehensive understanding and deeper analysis of cases. However, Chief Justice Gesmundo highlights the need for magistrates to familiarize themselves with terms like “algorithmic,” “tech,” and “AI” as these new terminologies play a significant role in shaping the future of justice.
The Supreme Court’s “Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovation 2022-2027” (SPJI) serves as a roadmap for embracing technology within the judiciary. Chief Justice Gesmundo emphasizes the importance of achieving even a single objective outlined in the SPJI, such as expediting the delivery of quality justice by adhering to constitutional time limits for final decisions. Such a achievement would be monumental and pave the way for an extended plan, SPJI 2028-2033, with a stronger reliance on hi-tech and AI.
AI is the future and will bring unimaginable changes to various aspects of society. This transformation will occur with lightning speed, impacting jobs, professions, workplaces, habits, lifestyles, medicine, family relations, longevity, laws, and governance. It’s natural for anxiety and fears of obsolescence to arise, but just as obsolete jobs are replaced, new work and expertise will emerge. Core values and principles like empathy, trust, love, justice, and faith in a higher power will remain constant.
While AI can input and apply constitutions, statutes, and regulations with ease, humane justice can only be dispensed by judges who possess the discretion to uphold a just and humane society. For instance, judges have the authority to select penalties from a range of options and ensure that “right and justice” prevail, as granted by the Civil Code. Judges possess a unique ability that tech bots lack, thereby emphasizing their crucial role in the justice system.
On a personal note, Chief Justice Gesmundo highlights the opportunities he has had to stay informed about societal transformation as a retired chief justice. Through his involvement in international groups and various organizations, he has kept his mind active and up-to-date with the trends and jargon of the current age. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being through activities like playing golf and tennis.
The future of justice lies in embracing technology while preserving essential values and principles. The judiciary must adapt to a rapidly changing world to ensure a just and humane society under the rule of law.
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