Rethinking the field of automatic prediction of court decisions

In this paper, we discuss previous research in automatic prediction of court decisions. We define the difference between outcome identification, outcome-based judgement categorisation and outcome forecasting, and review how various studies fall into these categories. We discuss how important it is to understand the legal data that one works with in order to determine which task can be performed. Finally, we reflect on the needs of the legal discipline regarding the analysis of court judgements.

Automated summary

This paper discusses previous research in automatic prediction of court decisions and defines the differences between outcome identification, outcome-based judgement categorisation, and outcome forecasting. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal data being worked with to determine the tasks that can be performed. Finally, it reflects on the needs of the legal discipline regarding court judgement analysis.