AI tools surge in Canadian courts, sparking access gains and training concerns
The use of artificial intelligence in Canadian courts has risen sharply, helping many self-represented litigants while reducing practical experience for law students.
Data shows AI applications in Canadian courtrooms increased from 104 instances in 2025 to 142 so far in 2026. Experts say the technology is mainly adopted by individuals who cannot afford legal representation, with over 80% of users being self-represented. While this expands access to justice, critics warn that law students lose valuable hands-on training opportunities. Tom Macintosh Zheng, co-founder of the legal-tech platform Courtready, highlighted the trend and its mixed implications.
Why it matters
AI's rise in courts expands legal aid for the uninsured but may erode practical training for future lawyers.
In this story
