Two of California’s largest courts are testing an AI tool that can draft orders and produce research memos. Judges so far are using it primarily for civil cases, but documents obtained by CalMatters indicate the possibility of expanded applications in criminal cases, where people’s freedom and access to justice are on the line. 

For years, courts have welcomed cases brought by self-represented litigants. Now those plaintiffs have A.I., and their filings are consuming more and more bandwidth.

Orange County Superior Court announced the launch of an eFiling program to better serve attorneys in criminal cases, beginning on Friday, May 22, 2026. The Criminal Defense Attorney Portal (CDAP) will enable attorneys to electronically file motions, petitions and responses that would have otherwise required in-person filing at the clerk’s office. 

(Subscription required) The State Bar of California has approved a legal specialization in privacy law, marking the first time the State Bar has approved a new specialization in more than 20 years. The Proposed Standards will be incorporated into the State Bar Rules and take effect Jan. 1, and beginning on that date, the Legal Specialization Program will accept applications from attorneys seeking certification as Privacy Law Specialists.