AI-Enabled Alternative Dispute Resolution: Emerging Applications and Future Trajectories

Abstract

The landscape of conflict resolution is witnessing a significant change today owing to modern technological advancements. While the infusion of Artificial Intelligence (hereinafter referred to as “AI”) technology with dispute resolution mechanisms holds great promises, it raises several ethical concerns. AI systems’ use of machine learning algorithms and natural language processing can prove beneficial for the analysis of vast datasets which in turn can provide valuable insights for alternative dispute resolution (hereinafter referred to as ADR) practitioners and disputant parties. AI’s intelligent analysis can lead to a better understanding of issues in a dispute, leading to more informed decision-making. Despite the advantages that AI-integrated ADR leads to expect, there are concerns relating to its possibility in replacing human judgment. Nevertheless, AI’s potential in aiding and enhancing the ADR procedure has been widely recognized. Generative AI has offered tools that will improve the efficiency and efficacy of ADR and help achieve accuracy levels which were previously unattainable. This research endeavor shall address the nuances pertaining to AI’s integration into ADR—beginning with an analysis of the specific manners in which AI can be integrated in private dispute methods. The paper shall examine the effective application of custom-made generative AI platforms, viz. Tyler Technologies, Picture It Settled, Smartsettle, Oasis, among others, that are used by the legal industry. Furthermore, this research paper shall explore possible future improvements at the juncture of technology and dispute resolution, offering insights into prospective applications.