Administrative Justice Council report says stronger data collection and management are needed before Artificial Intelligence can be used effectively in tribunals
Artificial intelligence could play a role in the future operation of the UK’s tribunal system, but improvements to data collection and management will be necessary before its benefits can be fully realised, according to a new report examining digital reform in administrative justice.
The report was produced by a working group of the Administrative Justice Council (AJC), which reviewed the impact of ongoing digital reforms within the tribunal system and considered how technology is shaping the delivery of administrative justice.
Tribunals deal with a wide range of disputes involving public bodies, including cases related to welfare benefits, immigration and other administrative decisions. In recent years, digital reforms led by HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) have introduced online case management systems and expanded the use of remote hearings.
The AJC report notes that these developments have changed how tribunal services operate. However, it concludes that additional work is needed to ensure digital reforms improve efficiency and accessibility while maintaining fairness within the system.
The working group said artificial intelligence could eventually assist tribunal processes in certain areas. Potential uses may include helping identify relevant case law, procedural rules or previous decisions in routine matters. Such tools could support judges and tribunal staff when reviewing documentation or managing large numbers of cases.
Despite these possibilities, the report highlights limitations within the current data infrastructure used by tribunals. Researchers said it remains uncertain whether the full range of information required to manage caseloads effectively is being collected or analysed.
The report also raises concerns about the availability of management data. Judges and tribunal administrators may face difficulties obtaining timely information needed to monitor performance or identify delays. Limited public access to tribunal data can also reduce transparency within the administrative justice system.
The working group concluded that strengthening data collection and improving how information is used across the tribunal system will be essential if technology such as artificial intelligence is to support decision-making in the future.
The report also examines the experience of people using tribunal services. Evidence gathered during the review indicates that some users, particularly those without legal representation, can struggle to understand procedures or the reasoning behind tribunal decisions.
Participants reported difficulties with aspects of digital processes, including uploading evidence to online systems and navigating tribunal platforms. In some cases, communications were described as unclear or difficult to follow.
Remote hearings, which became more common during digital reform efforts, have also presented mixed experiences. While they have improved accessibility for some participants, technical issues and practical challenges have also been reported.
In response, the working group made a series of recommendations aimed at improving digital tribunal services. These include developing clearer communication for users, strengthening technological infrastructure and ensuring tribunal systems are designed with the needs of users in mind.
The report concludes that digital innovation has the potential to support tribunal services, but stresses that improvements to data quality and accessibility will be essential to ensure that technology strengthens the fairness, transparency and effectiveness of the administrative justice system.