Artificial Intelligence in Legal Research and Judicial Decision Support: Opportunities, Risks, and Accountability

This paper explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in legal research and judicial decision support. It examines the key technologies currently in use, the tangible benefits they offer (such as efficiency, cost reduction, and improved access to justice), and the critical risks that have emerged in practice (including algorithmic bias, opacity, automation bias, and confidentiality concerns). Furthermore, the paper proposes institutional governance measures and responsible workflows to ensure that AI innovation remains aligned with the core principles of the rule of law, including competence, candor, fairness, and reasoned decision-making. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Legal Tech, Judicial Decision Support, AI Ethics, Algorithmic Bias, Legal Research, AI Governance, Open Access