The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the Brazilian Judiciary is transforming the landscape of dispute resolution. According to research published by the National Council of Justice (CNJ) on December 17th¹ 2024, 62 Brazilian courts have implemented or were in the process of implementing AI-based projects in 2023, which represents an increase of 17% compared to the previous year. These projects primarily serve to enhance efficiency by automating repetitive tasks, such as document classification, case indexing, and process monitoring. The widespread adoption of AI reflects the judiciary’s commitment to addressing Brazil’s historically high litigation rates and expediting judicial proceedings.
One of the most prominent examples of AI application is the “Victor” system, employed by the Supreme Federal Court (STF)². Victor is designed to analyze and classify extraordinary appeals, significantly reducing the workload of court clerks and facilitating case management. Similarly, other courts utilize AI-driven algorithms to detect patterns in litigation, helping to identify abusive litigation practices and ensuring more rational judicial administration. These developments illustrate the judiciary’s recognition of AI as a crucial tool in enhancing procedural efficiency and accessibility to justice.
Despite these advancements, AI’s role in judicial decision-making raises ethical and legal concerns. The increasing reliance on automated systems prompts discussions on transparency, accountability, and potential biases embedded in AI algorithms. Scholars and legal professionals caution against excessive dependence on AI-generated recommendations, emphasizing the necessity of human oversight to preserve judicial discretion and safeguard fundamental rights. The CNJ has responded by establishing Resolution No. 332/2020³, which outlines ethical guidelines and governance principles for AI use in the judiciary.
Another critical issue involves the protection of personal data and privacy. AI systems rely on extensive datasets, often including sensitive legal information. While the Brazilian General Data Protection Law (LGPD) provides a regulatory framework for data processing, challenges persist in ensuring compliance and preventing unauthorized access or misuse of judicial data. Maintaining a balance between innovation and data protection remains a key challenge for the judiciary.
Comparing Brazil’s approach to international trends, countries like China have adopted AI in a more advanced capacity, integrating AI into judicial reasoning and mandatory consultation by judges. Conversely, European jurisdictions have taken a more cautious stance, imposing stricter limitations on AI’s role in decision-making to uphold due process guarantees. Brazil’s regulatory efforts suggest an attempt to balance efficiency with judicial integrity, though ongoing legislative developments will determine the long-term sustainability of AI in litigation.
AI is reshaping the Brazilian Judiciary by improving efficiency, reducing backlog, and modernizing judicial operations. However, as AI systems become more integrated into judicial proceedings, ensuring ethical governance, transparency, and compliance with fundamental rights will be paramount. The evolution of AI in the judiciary must be accompanied by continuous regulatory oversight to harmonize technological progress with the principles of justice.
In this scenario, understanding the integration of Artificial Intelligence into the Brazilian Judiciary is essential for contemporary law firms. The adoption of these technologies not only optimizes operational efficiency but also offers a significant competitive advantage. Law firms that not only invest in advanced techniques, but also stay updated with technological innovations used by the judiciary system are better positioned to achieve superior results. The ability to utilize AI tools for data analysis, process automation, and pattern identification can transform legal practice, enabling more strategic and effective operations. Therefore, the continuous pursuit of knowledge and adaptation to new technologies are crucial for success and relevance in the current legal landscape.
² https://portal.stf.jus.br/noticias/verNoticiaDetalhe.asp?idConteudo=508710&ori=1