The Guidelines are built upon four fundamental principles that should govern every use of AI in Pakistan’s judicial system.

Rather than permitting unrestricted use, the Guidelines clearly define where AI may assist judicial institutions.

Rather than viewing AI as either a threat or a complete solution, the Guidelines adopt a middle path: technology should assist judges, improve efficiency, and enhance access to justice while preserving judicial independence, constitutional values, and public trust.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming almost every profession, and the legal sector is no exception. Around the world, courts are exploring how AI can improve efficiency, reduce delays, and enhance access to justice. Recognizing these opportunities, Pakistan has taken an important step by adopting the National Guidelines for Use of Artificial Intelligence in Judicial Institutions of Pakistan, approved by the National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee (NJPMC) in February 2026. The Guidelines represent Pakistan’s first comprehensive framework for the ethical, responsible, and transparent use of AI in the judiciary. They also send a clear message: AI is meant to assist judges, not replace them. Pakistan’s courts continue to face enormous challenges, particularly a large backlog of pending cases, increasing litigation, and growing demands for quicker and more efficient justice. AI offers promising solutions by helping courts manage information, organize documents, conduct legal research, and improve administrative efficiency. However, AI also carries significant risks. AI systems can produce........

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