Artificial Intelligence and Judicial Integrity: Evaluating the Smart Majelis Judge Assignment System in Indonesia's Military Courts

Abstract

Digital transformation in judicial systems increasingly employs Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance transparency, accountability, efficiency, and institutional integrity. This study examines the implementation of Smart Majelis, an AI- assisted judge assignment system integrated into Indonesia’s Case Tracking Information System (SIPP), at Military Court III-13 Madiun and identifies factors affecting its effectiveness. An empirical legal research design with a socio- legal approach was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, document analysis, and review of relevant regulations, and analyzed qualitatively. The findings reveal that Smart Majelis transforms judge panel assignment from a predominantly manual process into an algorithm-assisted mechanism based on judges’ qualifications, competencies, and workloads. The system enhances objectivity, transparency, accountability, and administrative efficiency while preserving human oversight through judicial review of algorithmic recommendations. Its implementation is supported by leadership commitment, technological infrastructure, information technology competence, procedural adjustments, and stakeholder acceptance. However, effectiveness remains constrained by dependence on the Supreme Court’s central server, limited AI-specific regulation, staff adaptation challenges, and maintenance funding. This study contributes to judicial digital transformation literature by demonstrating that AI can strengthen institutional integrity through transparent, auditable, and standardized judicial administration without replacing judicial independence or human decision-making authority.