AI can help address the access to justice crisis by assisting unrepresented litigants who cannot afford legal representation. Millions worldwide struggle to navigate complex legal systems designed for legal professionals, resulting in fundamental inequalities in access to justice. The chapter introduces how legal AI assistants can help unrepresented litigants understand their rights, complete legal documents, and navigate court procedures.
The analysis covers a range of technologies, including generative AI, machine learning, computational logic, document automation systems, and more.
Beyond technological tools, the chapter addresses critical barriers, including unauthorized practice of law restrictions, and emphasizes the need for institutional reforms. The chapter argues that legal AI assistants should be treated as public goods, similar to courts and schools, and that a coordinated effort between developers, legal practice bodies, courts, and policymakers is necessary to effectively democratize access to justice and ensure equality under the law.
