Arbitrator-Robot : Is A(I)DR the future?

The practice of law has seen a boom in the use of technology, particularly in the arena of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Owing to the characteristics of disputes catered to, ADR generally involves the use of technology as ‘fourth participant’ in the proceedings. Regardless of the efficiency and cost effectiveness introduced by technology, until quite recently, parties and law practitioners showed preference for in-person court or ADR proceedings. Before the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the incumbent administrative and commercial activities around the world, virtual courts and virtual ADR proceedings were hardly in use. Now, these encompass the truth of the practice of law. With the unforeseeable change in the demands of consumers of legal services, as well as, the manner in which justice has to be administered, there is an increasing need to find effective tools for the purpose. In this background, this article aims to discuss the feasibility of using artificial intelligence(AI) for arbitral decision making. This article explores the current use-cases of AI to lay down the foundation for its use in arbitral decision making. Further, the article discusses the suitability of an Arbitrator-Robot (ArBot) for the process of arbitration. The article also discusses the limitations of AI based arbitral decision making in light of its current models and use-cases, and further, plausible solutions to overcome these shortcomings. Finally, the article concludes that the use of AI in arbitral decision making will cater to the changing expectations of the consumers of legal services. If access to justice can be provided in a demonstrably cost and time effective manner, the market can be expected to opt for such an alternatives.