The Staffing, Operations and Technology: 2025 Survey of State Courts, the third annual report by Thomson Reuters Institute with support from the National Center for State Courts AI Policy Consortium, captures insights from 443 judges and court professionals across State, County, and Municipal courts, gathered via an online questionnaire between March 26 and April 15, 2025. It examines how digital transformation and technological advancements are reshaping court operations, access to justice, and workforce trends.
Key findings highlight significant operational strain: 68% of courts reported staffing shortages last year, and 48% of court professionals say they lack sufficient time to perform their duties . Workloads have increased. 45% of respondents noted heavier caseloads, 39% flagged rising complexity, and 24% observed increases in court delays and continuances according to Thomson Reuters.
While many courts now conduct virtual hearings, there are growing concerns about the digital divide impacting litigant participation. Technological adoption is progressing. Most courts use key automated tools, but gaps remain, especially in budgets and infrastructure, despite the broader legal environment embracing AI and Generative AI.
