- Government-backed industry-led delivery panel to
boost new legal technologies
- Industry experts to provide advice and support
- Builds on Government strategy to drive business
innovation
In a speech at the Lord Mayor’s Dinner for HM Judges at
Mansion House on Wednesday evening, the Lord Chancellor
unveiled plans for a panel of industry professionals to
support and accelerate the development and adoption of
innovative new legal technologies.
Chaired by The Law Society’s incoming President
Christina Blacklaws, the group will provide direction
to the legal sector and help foster an environment in
which new technology can thrive.
The Government recognises the importance of embracing
cutting-edge initiatives to ensure the UK’s £24billion
legal services sector continues to grow and retain its
world-leading reputation.
The legal sector is already adapting to harness the
power of these emerging technologies - with the Serious
Fraud Office introducing a document review system,
backed up by artificial intelligence, that can review
2,000 documents a day and law firms embracing automated
digital contracts that allow for on-going monitoring of
contract terms.
Lord Chancellor said:
I am determined to ensure our world-leading legal
services sector continues to thrive and that the UK
remains the primary choice for international
business.
The Lawtech industry is experiencing rapid growth and
cutting-edge initiatives are already underway across
the country.
It is of paramount importance that, working together,
we foster an environment in which these new
technologies are embraced and take advantage of every
opportunity created.
The UK is the ideal place for LawTech to thrive - with
its progressive regulation, world-leading professionals
and financial services sector and huge tech talent
pool.
Today’s announcement builds on the Government’s work to
boost innovation and emerging technologies and create a
thriving service industry.
In April of this year, the Prime Minister announced a
£20 million fund to encourage work between businesses
and researchers and help the service industry,
including the legal sector, take advantage of new
technologies.
The Home Office has also announced the launch of
start-up visas for entrepreneurs looking to come to the
UK.
Notes to editors:
More information on the Home Office’s start-up visa
programme is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-start-up-visa-route-announced-by-the-home-secretary
More information on the Government’s £20 million
industrial strategy can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/industrial-strategy-challenge-fund-joint-research-and-innovation
