Application of artificial intelligence in the field of legal and forensic medicine: advances and future challenges

Abstract

Introduction: Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a profoundly transformative tool in numerous fields of knowledge, and its application in legal and forensic medicine is opening a new chapter in forensic science. The development of the “JL-IDIF” system by the Forensic Research Institute (IDIF) has been recognized as an innovative step, setting precedents for the use of advanced technology for the recording and analysis of forensic data. AI represents an unprecedented opportunity to transform legal and forensic medicine, making these processes faster, more efficient, and more accurate. Methodology. An information search was conducted from January to May 2025. Information was collected from scientific articles, books, technical reports, and publications in specialized media, using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and websites of forensic and government institutions. This approach allowed for a comprehensive and well-founded synthesis of the available information. Conclusions. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed multiple areas of medicine, and its incursion into forensic and legal medicine marks the beginning of a new era in forensic practice. This review has shown that, while technological advances have demonstrated great potential, significant limitations remain related to data quality, the need for external validation, and the availability of adequate technological infrastructure. In Bolivia, initiatives such as the JL-IDIF project or the experimental implementation of generative AI models demonstrate the interest and initial capacity to explore these emerging technologies. AI should not be viewed as a substitute for human judgment, but rather as a powerful tool that enhances the work of experts, allowing them to focus on critical interpretation and decision-making.