DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND PROCEDURAL EFFICIENCY IN THE ECUADORIAN JUDICIAL SYSTEM
Keywords:
digital transformation; procedural efficiency; digital justice; electronic case file; artificial intelligence; EcuadorAbstract
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/ig.v9i18.0368
Abstract
Digital transformation in Ecuadorian justice combines electronic files, judicial management through electronic means, telematic hearings, automation and emerging artificial-intelligence initiatives. This review examines the relationship between digitalization and procedural efficiency through three themes: digitization of files and judicial actions; speed, interoperability and institutional management; and automation and artificial intelligence as decision-support mechanisms. Recent literature identifies benefits in service continuity, shorter processing times, traceability and remote access, while also reporting infrastructure deficits, documentary coexistence, digital-skill gaps and due-process concerns. A 2025 empirical study on AI-based decision-support tools in Ecuadorian courts reported a reduction in average case-resolution time from 72.4 to 48.9 days and improved inter-rater consistency. In parallel, Ecuador’s Council of the Judiciary reported that 90% of national technological infrastructure was obsolete and approved an investment proposal for 2026–2029 of approximately USD 198.014 million. The review concludes that procedural efficiency depends less on digitizing isolated acts than on integrating infrastructure, electronic case files, interoperability, human capabilities and technological governance with legal safeguards.
Keywords: digital transformation; procedural efficiency; digital justice; electronic case file; artificial intelligence; Ecuador.
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References
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