"How AI is Transforming Justice: Bridging the Gap in Benefits Appeals and Landlord Disputes"

Every day, countless individuals lose legal battles—not because they lack merit, but because they lack the resources to fight wealthier opponents. Artificial intelligence (AI), the technology revolutionizing industries worldwide, is poised to change this imbalance and enhance access to justice.

Justice for All: AI’s Role in the Legal System

AI is transforming the legal landscape, from drafting contracts to analyzing vast amounts of evidence in complex cases. This transformation is not confined to global law firms but is quietly making a difference in grassroots initiatives like the Westway Trust's Cost of Living Crisis Clinic in London.

Located in one of England's poorest neighborhoods, the clinic provides assistance for disputes ranging from benefits appeals to landlord conflicts.

AI in Action: Real-World Impact

Take the example of a client who faced homelessness after her landlord canceled her tenancy. Despite being a professional, she found herself overwhelmed by the legal battle, highlighting the limited access to affordable legal aid for many in need.

At Westway, paralegal adviser Adam Samji demonstrates how AI is making a difference. Preparing a case can involve analyzing lengthy documents—like 60-page benefit eligibility assessments—which previously required hours of manual review.

With AI tools, the process is dramatically streamlined:

• Personal information is redacted in minutes.
• Documents are uploaded into an AI model that identifies key facts and legal issues.
• Results are returned within 10-15 minutes, saving hours of work.

This efficiency allows advisers to focus more on serving clients, providing them with stronger, faster legal support.

A Revolution in Fairness

AI is addressing a fundamental fairness gap in the justice system. Legal battles often create financial and emotional strain, reducing productivity and well-being. By resolving disputes more efficiently and affordably, AI tools alleviate this burden.

Sir Geoffrey Vos, Master of the Rolls and head of civil justice in England and Wales, underscores AI’s potential:

"When people can't resolve claims, it creates economic loss and stress. AI will be one of the tools to resolve problems quickly and at lower cost."

Looking Ahead

As AI becomes more integrated into the legal system, its ability to bridge gaps in justice will continue to grow. From benefits appeals to landlord disputes, AI is transforming how legal support is delivered, ensuring fairness and accessibility for all.

The revolution has begun, and it’s bringing justice into the digital age.