Technology and the Law: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Litigation and Dispute Resolution in Africa

Globally, the legal profession and justice delivery system are changing. It is time for the members of the profession to make decisions that will help them adapt to the changing dynamics of the “new trends” or continue on the same historical path. Application of Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in dispute resolution is here to stay, hence members of the profession and most judicial systems have to adjust to this new trend. The profession will however continue to face cost pressure and delays in dispensation of justice, if members fail to embrace these trends and the jurisdictions that continue operating at the status quo are likely to face struggles and uncertain future. While climes that adapt and push their strategies forward will have the opportunity to outperform their lagging competitors, take over their legal space and become viable option for investors who end up being clients and litigants in the near future. To meet the needs of clients and remain in the competitive market, technology and artificial intelligence cannot be overlooked in law practice, litigation and other dispute resolution processes. Consequently, it is important to question the extent of application, role and impact of these emerging trends on dispute resolution in Africa. Is Africa lagging behind or ahead of other climes? Through a comparative perspective, the researcher seeks to answer this question by interrogating the role of AI on litigation and other dispute resolution mechanisms in Africa, with the aim of proffering effective recommendations on the usefulness of AI legal technology in dispute resolution in Africa.