Implementing blockchain technology in the South African judicial system

Abstract

Technology has played a pivotal role in enhancing many industries and therefore societies, which begs the question whether these technological developments can prove beneficial even to the judicial system in South Africa (Smith, et al., 2019). This research seeks to answer this question based on a qualitative approach to data collection from in-depth one-on-one interviews held with 15 participants including legal practitioners (attorneys, advocates, magistrates, and judges specialising in different areas of the law), and their clients. A focus group was also held with 10 similar participants. The research explores the current challenges experienced within the judicial system, and how the integration of blockchain technology could potentially enhance transparency, security, and efficiency in legal processes, thus leading to an improved client experience and benefits to legal businesses and courts in South Africa.

The findings shed light on the potential benefits of blockchain technology implementation in the judicial system, as well as pointing to some of the socio-legal dynamics, technical considerations, and policy implications influencing the adoption of blockchain technology. All of this can offer valuable insights to policymakers, legal practitioners, and technologists who are seeking to navigate the intersection of law and emerging technologies within the South African context