On July 18, 2025, the Judicial Council of California unanimously adopted the first statewide framework in the nation governing the use of generative artificial intelligence within the judicial branch. The adoption of Rule 10.430 of the California Rules of Court and Standard 10.80 of the Standards of Judicial Administration reflects a measured, ethics-centered approach to emerging technology.
Rule 10.430: Guardrails for Court Use of AI
Effective September 1, 2025, Rule 10.430 applies to any court that permits the use of generative AI in court-related work. Key provisions include:
- Data Privacy: Prohibits entering confidential or nonpublic information into generative AI systems without safeguards.
- Bias Prevention: Forbids use of AI tools that result in unlawful discrimination or disparate impacts.
- Human Oversight: Requires meaningful human review and correction of AI-generated content.
- Transparency: Mandates disclosure when court-generated content is entirely AI-produced.
- Policy Requirement: By December 15, 2025, each court must adopt a written AI policy—either using the model policy or implementing a compliant local version.
Standard 10.80: Guidance for Judicial Officers
Standard 10.80 offers similar guidance for judicial officers using generative AI in adjudicative functions. It encourages careful use, recommends disclosure when appropriate, and reinforces the need to preserve impartiality and public confidence in judicial decision-making.Innovation with Accountability
The framework allows for local flexibility—courts are not required to adopt AI but must implement safeguards if they choose to. The policies are the product of extensive work by the Judicial Council’s Artificial Intelligence Working Group and reflect input from legal, technological, and ethics experts.
A National First
With this action, California becomes the first state to formally regulate generative AI use in the courts. The new rule and standard set a model for other jurisdictions seeking to balance innovation with the core values of judicial integrity, transparency, and fairness.
