Law Society Call For Evidence: Algorithms + Justice

29th June 2018 artificiallawyer Legal AI + Regulation 1

The Law Society of England & Wales is calling for written evidence from all interested parties on the topic of algorithms in the justice system, (see story in Artificial Lawyer).

Below is the Law Society’s formal call for evidence on this subject. Legal AI companies, law firm IT directors and lawyers, and in fact all potential stakeholders, are welcome to contribute to this landmark review.

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Official Announcement

Call for Evidence

The Law Society is calling for written evidence from all interested parties on the topic of algorithms in the justice system.

We are looking to hear from practitioners, academics, tech professionals, civil liberties organisations, companies that make algorithms, public bodies that use them, and anyone who has an interest in technology, the rule of law and human rights.

If you would like to give evidence, or simply want more information about the Commission, please visit this link.

Or email: Commission@lawsociety.org.uk

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Evidence Sessions

The Law Society also will be holding three public sessions where our Commissioners will take oral evidence from experts on the topic of algorithms in the justice system

Session 1

25th July, 4-6pm, at the Law Society, Chancery Lane, London.

Topic

The current state of algorithms in the justice system, and what’s on the horizon

Guest Commissioner

Andrea Coomber – Director of Justice

Questions:

  • What algorithms that you know of are currently in use in the justice system in England and Wales?
  • Are there any algorithms that you know of that are currently being developed for use in the justice system in England and Wales?
  • What are some of the benefits that can be derived from the use of algorithms in the justice system?
  • What are some of the dangers?
  • How does bias in decision making cut across existing legislation?
  • Are there any algorithms currently in development for use in the justice system?
  • How do they differ from algorithms currently being used?
  • How will their effectiveness and adherence to ethical principles be guaranteed?

If you would like to give evidence, or simply attend the evidence session, please visit this link.

Or email Commission@lawsociety.org.uk

Details of further sessions will be made public in due course.