Algorithms on Trial

Abstract

In the transformative era of “data-ism”, where the digital landscape evolves at an unprecedented pace, the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and the legal domain has become a focal point of global discourse. As we navigate the complexities of this new era, issues arising from AI technologies permeate various facets of society, compelling us to reassess traditional legal frameworks and procedural norms. The emergence of AI-related legal challenges, from algorithmic bias and privacy concerns to the implications of autonomous decisionmaking systems, underscores the critical need for a dedicated judicial institution at the European Union level. The vision of establishing an EU-level court for AI regulation is not merely a response to technological advancements but a proactive initiative to shape the contours of justice in the digital age. This envisioned court stands as a testament to the EU’s commitment to fostering forward-thinking legal environment that grapples with the intricacies of AI governance. This project sets the stage for exploring the profound impact of AI on law-courts, prompting the research question: “To what degree does the impact of AI-related judicial issues on legal procedures influence the architectural form and spatial organization of legal spaces?” Recent instances exemplify the urgency of addressing AI in the legal sphere. Cases such as algorithmic bias in predictive policing models, the debate around facial recognition technology, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI in criminal justice highlight the dynamic challenges that demand novel legal approaches. Against this backdrop, the research question takes center stage, probing the nuanced relationship between AIinduced shifts in legal procedures and the architectural adaptability required within legal spaces. The project thus explores the complex interplay between AI, the legal system, and the physical structures that house justice. It underscores the relevance of establishing an EU-level court dedicated to AI regulation, positioning it as a pivotal entity in navigating the uncharted waters of data-ism and ensuring that justice remains equitable, transparent, and ethically grounded in an era defined by the omnipresence of data and artificial intelligence.