AI response team releases interim guidance and resources for state courts

February 21, 2024 -- Courts looking for guidance on artificial intelligence (AI) have new resources at their fingertips thanks to the AI Rapid Response Team (RRT).

Working with NCSC, the AI RRT has developed the first in a series of interim guidance and compiled resources to help state courts understand artificial intelligence and generative AI. The AI RRT is a joint project of NCSC, the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ), and the Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA).

The interim guidance talking points identify challenges and areas of concern for courts to consider when dealing with AI, including the erosion of public trust and confidence, the need for ethical guidelines and court rules, and education on deepfakes.

"Artificial intelligence is already impacting the courts, and we must be prepared and forward-thinking when it comes to addressing how AI can be used effectively, efficiently, and ethically to promote the administration of justice," said CCJ President and AI RRT Co-Chair Anna Blackburne-Rigsby, Chief Judge of the D.C. Court of Appeals.

The interim guidance also identifies potential applications of AI in court operations, including streamlining internal court processes, developing tools for self-represented litigants, and creating informational content for court visitors.

AI Resources

The AI RRT resource center features current information and resources for both state and federal courts, including:

Data visualization map of court activities by state
State court orders, rules, proposed rules, statutes, and proposed legislation
Caselaw and decisions
State court guidelines and policies
Ethics
State task forces or committees
Federal courts and international resources
Articles and other resources

"AI can be a tool to aid courts, lawyers, and litigants in the right circumstances, but it is not a replacement for judges and lawyers, and there must be guardrails in place to ensure that it is ethically used by courts and parties," said Shay Cleary, an NCSC managing director and AI RRT staff lead.

Join the AI Conversation with NCSC's Monthly Implementers' Forum

NCSC's monthly Implementers’ Forum is underway with robust AI-related discussions and prototype demonstrations among NCSC team members and court AI coders, practitioners, and implementers. Upcoming learning collaboratives will provide additional opportunities for sharing, troubleshooting, and brainstorming for court staff new to AI.

"The people were really friendly and welcoming. The content blew us away. It really opened our eyes on what we need to be considering with AI." – Forum participant.

Join the conversation and gain insights from peers nationwide. Meetings take place on the first Wednesday of every month. Visit ncsc.org/ai to join the forum, learn more about AI events and activities and receive AI updates from NCSC.

NCSC Civics Education Essay contest is now open

The NCSC annual Civics Education Essay contest is now open. All elementary, middle, and high school students in grades 3-12 are encouraged to participate.

Prize money will be awarded to the top three winners from elementary, middle, and high schools. Essays will be accepted online through midnight ET, Friday, March 22, 2024. Winners will be announced on May 1.

Students can enter through the essay contest portal found on our civics education page. You’ll also find materials that can be used to promote the contest in your courts and communities.

Please contact Molly Justice for additional information.