Helping judges from the data cloud: Brandenburg brings artificial intelligence into the courtroom

Less paper, more pixels: justice in the digital transformation

What previously sounded like science fiction will become reality in Brandenburg from the summer: judges will receive digital support from artificial intelligence. The new language model called "Maki" is intended to help process mass proceedings faster and more efficiently in future. State Secretary of Justice Ernst Bürger announced the launch of the pilot phase in the state parliament.

Justice Minister Benjamin Grimm (SPD) also showed his digital enthusiasm - on Instagram. From summer 2025, a text module component will be available that can be used to automatically prepare pleadings. The goal is clear: to relieve the burden on courts, speed up proceedings and save resources.

"Maki" as a new judicial aid - but not a digital judge

The "Maki" AI tool is not a solo effort by Brandenburg, but part of a cross-state project led by Lower Saxony. It was developed specifically for processing mass proceedings - for example in administrative or civil proceedings where many cases are similar.

What the AI is supposed to do: automated analysis of files, suggestions for wording, text modules for court decisions. What it does not do: make judgments or decisions. The human being - the judge - remains ultimately responsible.

State Secretary Bürger emphasized that "Maki" would only be used as a support - a digital assistant, not a replacement for the judiciary.

AI "Kai" already helps with passenger rights today

Brandenburg already has experience with artificial intelligence in the judiciary: the "Kai" tool has been analyzing cases relating to air passenger rights at Königs Wusterhausen Local Court for some time now. No wonder - BER Airport is located in the relevant court district, which is where most of the lawsuits against airlines end up.

Delays, cancellations and compensation claims often involve standardized processes. Ideal for an AI that recognizes patterns, pre-sorts files and takes care of routine work. Here too, the decision remains with the court. But the process is getting shorter.

Digitalization is good - but what about data protection and fairness?

As welcome as the efficiency gains are, not everyone is rejoicing at the arrival of AI in the justice system. Critics warn of potential dangers:

• Loss of individual justice?
• Non-transparent decision-making processes?
• Data protection for sensitive court data?

One thing is clear: the use of AI in the legal system is not a sure-fire success. It needs clear rules, transparent algorithms and human control - otherwise the help will quickly turn into a risk. The state must not hide behind the technology.

Courageous - but risky

AI in the justice system can do a lot of good, especially where mountains of files instead of legal issues determine everyday life. But the leap from text module to judgment formula is shorter than many people think.

AI must never replace thinking. Those who bear responsibility need not only data, but also the power of judgment. In the justice system in particular, it is not just efficiency that counts, but justice - and this cannot (yet) be programmed.