Integrating Large Language Models in Judicial Workflows: Designing an LLM-based Crime Reporting Application through Design Science Research

Nowadays, workflows in judiciary systems are undergoing rapid transformation, stimulated by the technological opportunities offered by Generative AI solutions, including Large Language Models (LLMs). These technologies offer promising tools for addressing the inefficiencies and accessibility challenges inherent in traditional judicial workflows, which have long resisted digital modernization. By automating repetitive and time-intensive tasks such as text summarization and document analysis, LLMs can assist humans, thus enhancing operational effectiveness. This article presents an exploratory study conducted in the scope of a collaboration between researchers and IT experts from the University of Brescia and the Prosecutor General’s Office at the Court of Appeal of Brescia. Adopting a Design Science Research methodology, the article describes the design and evaluation of a Proof-of-Concept Web application that leverages LLMs and prompt engineering to support text summarization and analysis tasks. The prototype is intended to assist legal professionals with domain expertise, but without advanced IT skills, in interacting effectively with Generative AI technologies. The study highlights the potential of LLMs to streamline human effort, reduce manual overhead, and support decision-making, while also pointing out key challenges for their adoption in judicial workflows.