In this two-part article, the author explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on arbitration. In this first part, the author expounds on the evolution and functions of AI tools to consider how AI is designed and deployed. Then, the author examines the pros and cons of AI to emphasise how it can be beneficial or threatening for legal practice. Building on that discussion, the author provides a glimpse into the future with the appointment of AI arbitrators. In the conclusion of this article, to be published in an upcoming issue of Dispute Resolution Journal, the author will examine guidelines issued recently by various arbitral institutions setting out ethical boundaries on the use of AI in arbitration. The author will conclude this article by explaining that the arbitration process places considerable confidence in the kaleidoscopic and multifaceted aspects of human intelligence, thereby demanding legal and technical expertise to meticulously study the ramifications of AI arbitration in the future, in order to address concerns that the premature utilisation of AI arbitrators can trigger.
Dispute Resolution Journal