The Brazilian state of Ceará has achieved significant improvements in judicial efficiency through a large-scale digital transformation initiative supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The Program for Modernization of the Judicial Branch (PROMOJUD) was launched in 2021 to address court backlogs, reduce case processing times, and improve public access to justice.
With $28 million in financing, Ceará invested in artificial intelligence, process automation, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and workforce training. These reforms were designed to streamline judicial processes and enhance productivity across the state’s court system.
The results have been substantial. Judicial productivity increased by 40% between 2021 and 2025, while the average time required to resolve cases dropped from more than three years to just 16 months. The cost of resolving cases also declined, helping the judiciary operate more efficiently.
The modernization effort has had a direct impact on citizens. User satisfaction with judicial services increased from 56% to 74%, reflecting improved service delivery and faster case resolution. An evaluation of more than 50,000 cases found that courts using AI-powered tools processed cases approximately 33% more efficiently than those without the technology.
Ceará’s experience demonstrates how digital transformation, combined with investments in human capital and institutional capacity, can strengthen public services. By leveraging AI and automation, the state’s judiciary has improved governance, reduced operational bottlenecks, and expanded access to timely and reliable justice for citizens.
The success of PROMOJUD highlights the growing role of technology in modernizing public institutions and delivering better outcomes for communities. As governments worldwide seek innovative ways to improve public services, Ceará’s judicial reform offers a compelling example of how digital tools can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and increase public trust.
