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G. Giappichelli Editore

16/04/2025 - Blockchain Meets AI: Legal Review of Smart Contract Enforcement

argument: Notizie/News - Financial Technology

Source: ResearchGate

ResearchGate hosts a scholarly review focused on the intersection of blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, and contract law. The paper explores how AI-driven smart contracts—executed automatically via blockchain—challenge traditional legal enforcement mechanisms. It highlights concerns around contractual intent, data reliability, and legal accountability when contracts are managed or performed without direct human intervention.

The study analyzes case law and doctrinal theory related to digital contracts, offering comparative perspectives from the US, EU, and Asian legal systems. A significant portion is dedicated to the limitations of current regulatory frameworks in recognizing smart contracts as legally enforceable instruments. Particular attention is given to liability issues in the event of failure, misperformance, or hacking.

The paper concludes that while AI and blockchain offer transformative potential for contract execution, legal adaptation is essential. It calls for international harmonization and clear regulatory guidelines to reconcile automation with legal predictability and fairness.