The Moment of Authority: Where Human Judgment Becomes Institutional Action in AI-Supported Environments
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This paper introduces the concept of the Moment of Authority, the point at which human judgment converts a system-generated signal into institutional action, inaction, or delayed response within AI-supported justice environments. While artificial intelligence systems generate alerts, classifications, and recommendations, they do not exercise authority. Authority is exercised by human actors under real-world conditions. This work defines the Moment of Authority as the critical point within the execution-layer decision space where outcomes are determined. Despite its central role, this moment remains largely undocumented within existing governance frameworks. This paper establishes the Moment of Authority as a foundational concept for understanding accountability, decision formation, and operational risk in justice systems. This publication is part of the Justice Decision Observability™ (JDO™) Canon Series (JDO-2026).
Authors: Fleming, Stephanie L., Broaddus, Janna M.
Language: English
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7154898073
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