Justice Minister Warns Against Two-Tier AI Divide in UK Courts and Legal Sector

Justice Minister Sarah Sackman has highlighted the urgent need to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) advancements across the entire UK legal system, cautioning against a two-tier divide where City law firms lead in AI adoption while courts remain "stuck in the analogue age." Speaking at the City of London Law Society conference, Sackman described AI as both an opportunity and a risk factor for the justice system in England and Wales.

Bridging the Digital Divide in Legal Services

Sackman stressed that while large law firms are already embracing AI tools to enhance efficiency and innovation, it is critical that the courts and wider justice system keep pace. She warned that failure to do so risks creating an uneven landscape that undermines the overall effectiveness and accessibility of justice.

The minister outlined three government priorities to support this goal: first, updating and maintaining a robust regulatory framework, citing the Property (Digital Assets etc) Act 2025 as an example of legislation recognising digital assets as property; second, fostering responsible innovation through initiatives like the AI Growth Lab legal services sandbox, which allows safe testing of new technologies; and third, ensuring that the benefits of AI innovation extend throughout the justice system, including courts and tribunals.

Modernising Courts with AI Tools

The Ministry of Justice is leading government efforts to adopt AI technologies such as transcription and case summarisation tools to assist judges and court staff. Sackman also highlighted the potential for AI to improve access to justice by guiding users to appropriate resources and legal advice.

She emphasised the importance of aligning the legal sector’s technological progress with necessary modernisation in courts, particularly to support litigators and arbitrators who rely on timely and efficient judicial processes.

Legal Services as a Pillar of UK Economy

The minister underscored legal services as foundational to other UK economic strengths, including financial services and life sciences. She noted the government’s commitment to a strategic approach, with plans to launch a global business and law summit to promote English law and share the benefits of legal innovation nationwide.

By fostering a unified, digitally advanced legal ecosystem, the government aims to maintain the UK’s preeminence in English law and ensure prosperity and innovation are shared across the country.

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For further details on the legal framework and AI developments in UK courts, see the original report at Legal Futures.

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