Malta is taking a significant step forward in exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its justice system, with a focus on enhancing both efficiency and accessibility for citizens.
This was the central theme of a recent workshop jointly organised by the Faculty of Laws and the Faculty of ICT at the University of Malta, which marked a milestone in the development of the AMPS project (AI meets the Maltese courts: safe use of AI to imProve efficiency using the Small Claims Tribunal as a model').
The event was attended by Minister for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector, Jonathan Attard, and Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti.
The AMPS initiative, supported by Xjenza Malta funding and backed by the Ministry for Justice, aims to introduce an AI-powered prototype specifically tailored to assist judicial processes, particularly within the Small Claims Tribunal.
The digital tool under development is designed to analyse legal texts and identify relevant case law, allowing legal professionals to resolve cases more efficiently and reduce processing times. By integrating AI into the court system, the project reflects a broader governmental vision outlined in Malta’s electoral manifesto — one that embraces innovation in public services, including the legal sector.
Minister Attard emphasised that AI is no longer a futuristic concept but an active force shaping daily life, work, and governance. He reaffirmed that the goal of adopting AI in the justice system is not to replace judges or arbitrators, but to equip them with tools that enhance research and decision-making.
He also pointed to the wider European context, noting that six years ago, the Council of Europe’s CEPEJ adopted a framework outlining ethical principles for AI use in judicial systems. In 2024, CEPEJ published its first detailed report on how AI is being implemented across various European justice systems. Moreover, he referenced the recent 24th Commonwealth Law Conference, hosted in Malta, where AI was a central topic — with the Commonwealth launching its own project to analyse legal frameworks from member states using AI technologies.
Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti highlighted the AMPS project as a bold example of human-technology collaboration in governance.
“This project demonstrates how technology can complement, not replace, human judgment. By integrating AI into legal workflows, we’re enhancing the justice system’s ability to deliver accurate, timely decisions,” he said. “It’s a step forward in ensuring Malta remains at the forefront of ethical and transparent innovation.”
The workshop was also attended by Mr Johan Galea, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector; Ms Vanessa Grech, CEO of the Court Agency; Prof. Ivan Mifsud, Dean of the Faculty of Laws; and Dr Juliana Scerri Ferrante, former adjudicator at the Small Claims Tribunal.
Dr Mifsud said “the conclusion of the AMPS project marks the culmination of a collaborative effort by multiple entities, each bringing their unique expertise and deep interest in the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in judicial decision-making. This initiative has not only fostered rich interdisciplinary collaboration, but it has also sparked meaningful dialogue about how AI can be integrated into adjudication processes in a way that enhances efficiency while safeguarding fairness and transparency. We are proud to have contributed to a project that brings together law, technology, and public service in such a thoughtful and forward-looking manner.”
Prof. Kevin Ashley from the University of Pittsburgh's School of Law delivered a keynote presentation about AI and Law, whilst Dr Charlie Abela and Prof. Joel Azzopardi delved into detail about how the AMPS system would work.
