From algorithms to awards: exploring the technological and legal boundaries of AI’s contributions to the work of arbitrators

Abstract In this article, we describe how arbitrators can use artificial intelligence (AI) during commercial arbitration proceedings today. In particular, we analyse whether tribunals can make use of AI for the purposes of selecting the presiding arbitrator, assisting with case management, analysing written evidence, managing oral hearings, and facilitating the tribunal’s deliberations, as well as for making settlement proposals, for legal decision-making and for drafting the final award. For each area of use, we give examples of how AI can assist arbitrators in their tasks, describe the current legal framework and flag both technological and legal risks that come with the use of AI. We conclude by providing arbitrators with a summary that categorizes the use of AI into green, orange, and red lists.