Justice by Algorithm? AI, Job Anxiety, and the Future of Courts

June 16th, 2026, Court Leader’s Advantage Podcast Episode 105When former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, real estate executiveGloria Caulfield, and music executive Scott Borchetta praised artificial intelligence during recent commencement addresses, graduates responded not with applause but with boos. For a growing number of Americans, especially younger workers entering the workforce, AI is no longer viewed primarily as a tool of innovation and opportunity. Rather, it is increasingly seen as a threat to jobs, economic security, and public trust.The concerns are multifaceted. AI's massive demand forelectricity and water raises environmental questions. Its capacity to generate misinformation and "hallucinated" facts raises concerns about public trust and the integrity of information. Most significant for Generation Z, however, is the fear that AI will fundamentally alter the job market andundermine economic security.Many technology leaders appear largely unmoved by theseconcerns. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has argued that fears of widespread job displacement are overstated. Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, contends that workers will not lose jobs to AI itself, but rather to workers who know how to use AImore effectively. Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, has similarly predicted that AI will increase productivity, create new opportunities, and improve living standards rather than simply eliminate jobs.The public remains unconvinced.A March 2026 Quinnipiac University poll found that 70% ofAmericans believe AI will reduce the number of available jobs. Among Generation Z, concern is even more pronounced, with 81% believing advances in artificial intelligence are likely to decrease employment opportunities.These concerns are fueled by highly visible workforcereductions. In 2025, Amazon announced approximately 14,000 corporate layoffs while acknowledging that AI-enabled efficiencies played at least a partial role in workforce reductions.[i] UPS announced plans to eliminate 20,000 positions. While the main reason for the reduction in force was a pullback by Amazon, CEO Carol Tomé also cited efficiencies from implementing AI.[ii] Cisco reduced itsworkforce by more than 4,000 employees while increasing its focus on AI-driven networking and security products.[iii] For many workers the message is unmistakable: artificial intelligence means fewer jobs rather than greater opportunity.Courts have historically been cautious adopters of newtechnology, and artificial intelligence appears to be no exception. Yet courts also face chronic staffing shortages, budget constraints, growing caseloads, and increasing pressure to improve efficiency. State legislatures, funding authorities, and court leaders may soon begin asking whether AI can help courts accomplish more with fewer resources.This month, we examine the growing backlash againstartificial intelligence. Is it a temporary reaction or the beginning of a lasting shift in public attitudes? Are court professionals and the public prepared for the inevitable transition? [i]Variety, "Amazon Says It Will Lay Off 14,000 Corporate Workers, Citing AI" (October 31, 2025)[ii] Gulf News, "AI Job Cuts: Major Companies Replacing Humans with Bots in 2025" (February 21, 2026)[iii] PBS (October 28, 2025), “Despite reporting record quarterly revenue of $15.8 billion — up 12% year-over-year —Cisco announced layoffs representing less than 5% of its global workforce, as the company realigned around AI-driven growth”Today's PanelTJ BeMent Court Administrator, 10th Judicial Administrative District Athens, GeorgiaRick Pierce Judicial Programs Administrator, Administrative Office of the Courts, Mechanicsburg, PennsylvaniaKarl Thoennes Court Administrator, Second Judicial Circuit Court, Sioux Falls, South DakotaCreadell Webb Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, 1st Judicial District of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia,Pennsylvania