Exploring the Future of Law: Insights from the 2nd Edition of the Lawtomation Days

On September 28th and 29th, IE Law School played host to a gathering of scholars at the ‘Lawtomation Days’. This second edition of the event served as a platform for profound discussions on the future of legal decision-making in the wake of rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence, and, in particular, Automated Decision Making in the field of law. For a visual trip down memory lane, we’ve curated a selection of photos from the first day.

This remarkable assembly welcomed over 100 experts and 200 participants, creating a dynamic melting pot of ideas and perspectives. The primary objective was to inspire profound reflection on the transformative impact of emerging technologies in various legal domains. Over the course of two days, the event showcased more than 80 presentations, fostering a multidisciplinary approach and collaborative engagement between experts and visitors from various international research institutions.

The topics explored during this year’s Lawtomation Days encompassed various facets of automation reshaping the legal landscape. One recurring theme delved into the role and capabilities of Automated Decision Making processes in the legal realm. Expert panels further scrutinised its practical viability in administrative and other legal processes and delved into the ethical dimensions of its application across different legal fields. The panel chaired by IE Professor Johanna Jacobson probed the enhancement of discriminatory practices in recruitment through AI, while parallel sessions assessed the dimensions of AI integration in court processes.

Another pivotal focus was on algorithmic contracts, examined in a panel led by Francisco de Elizalde, the director of the Lawtomation Centre. Other sessions explored considerations about feasibility and fairness in Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) and E-Justice, analysed the transforming role of fundamental rights amidst technological change, and delved into the realm of algorithmic transparency. Deep-diving exchanges about the technical aspects enabling transformative approaches were not set aside.

The success of this year’s edition can be attributed not just to the diverse range of topics discussed but also to the collaborative spirit that underpinned the event. By nurturing an open dialogue between legal experts, practitioners, and experts in various fields, the event showcased the power of synergy in the intersection of law and technology.

Backed by the European Commission through the Erasmus+ program, the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence for Law and Automation remains committed to advancing innovation and understanding within the legal field. The issues explored at the Lawtomation Days serve as a reminder of the continually increasing importance of enhanced research in the field, with the aim of upholding ethical, transparent, and fair legal decision-making while profiting from the benefits of transformative approaches.