Nicole Keeling
The UK government has announced a £1.5 million investment in LawtechUK, an initiative designed to modernise the legal sector through technology. The funding aims to support startups, attract private investment, and create jobs while ensuring that the UK remains a global leader in legal technology and innovation.
Driving Digital Transformation in Legal Services
LawtechUK was established to encourage technological advancements within the legal sector, helping law firms and businesses improve efficiency through digital solutions. Since its launch in 2019, the programme has supported over 176 startups, assisting them in developing innovative tools that streamline legal processes and make legal services more accessible (GOV.UK).
One such success story is Lexverify, an AI-powered platform that helps legal professionals manage compliance and cybersecurity risks in real time. By integrating artificial intelligence into legal services, startups like Lexverify are helping firms reduce operational costs and enhance decision-making.
Government’s Commitment to Lawtech Growth
Justice Minister Sarah Sackman KC MP has emphasised that the investment will ensure legal services are “faster, more efficient, and more accessible”, making justice more affordable for businesses and individuals. With the UK’s legal sector employing over 300,000 people and contributing significantly to the economy, the government sees lawtech as a crucial driver of economic growth (GOV.UK).
The funding will be delivered through CodeBase and Legal Geek, organisations that have been overseeing LawtechUK’s development since April 2023 (Today’s Conveyancer). Industry leaders have welcomed the investment, stating that it will provide much-needed support for startups looking to revolutionise legal services.
The Future of Lawtech in the UK
Beyond government funding, the UK is working to position itself as a global leader in legal technology through initiatives such as the GREAT Legal Services campaign, which promotes UK-based legal tech companies on the international stage.
As the legal industry increasingly embraces AI and digital transformation, this latest injection of funding is expected to accelerate lawtech innovation, attract global investment, and reinforce the UK’s status as a leading hub for legal technology development.