Harmonisation of Judges' Autonomy and AI Automation in Case Settlement Minimising Discretion

Artificial Intelligence Algorithmic Decision Making Discretion Judicial Automation

Authors

28 June 2025
1 August 2025

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the judiciary presents challenges in balancing judicial autonomy with case automation, particularly in procedural cases with minimal discretion. This study examines AI implementation in small claims, marriage ratification, editorial name changes, and traffic violations to enhance efficiency without undermining substantive justice. Using a normative juridical method with a statutory and comparative approach, this research identifies AI models applicable to Indonesia’s judiciary. Findings show that while judicial discretion remains vital, cases with standardized resolution patterns can be automated to reduce workload. Supreme Court reports indicate rising small claims cases, with traffic violations dominating district court criminal cases. AI can assist in administrative verification, document analysis, and drafting judgments based on algorithms. Therefore, harmonizing judicial autonomy and AI automation must consider judicial authority limits and principles of independence and accountability. This study affirms that well-directed AI implementation can improve judicial efficiency without diminishing the judge’s role as a guardian of justice.