US Federal Judges Admit to AI-Generated Errors in Court Orders
Two US federal judges disclosed unauthorized use of artificial intelligence in drafting court rulings, resulting in decisions marred by factual inaccuracies and legal errors. The revelations came in response to inquiries from Senator Chuck Grassley, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Judge Julien Xavier Neals of New Jersey acknowledged an intern's undisclosed use of ChatGPT in a securities case, while Mississippi Judge Henry T. Wingate reported a law clerk's reliance on Perplexity AI. Both withdrawn rulings have prompted procedural reforms, including new AI policies and enhanced review processes.
The incidents highlight growing tensions between judicial efficiency and technological reliability. "Every federal judge bears responsibility for ensuring AI doesn't compromise due process," Grassley emphasized, underscoring the judiciary's delicate balancing act in the digital age.
