A practical guide sets out how solicitors can adopt LawTech while maintaining compliance
LawTech is increasingly shaping how solicitors deliver legal services, with digital tools now supporting everything from case management to client communication. A practical guide for modern practitioners outlines how legal technology can be applied day to day to improve efficiency, strengthen compliance and support a more responsive client experience.
What LawTech means in practice
The guide defines LawTech as the use of technology to support the delivery of legal services. It focuses on improving accuracy and agility by streamlining complex workflows and reducing time spent on routine administration. The guide states that LawTech is designed to support lawyers, not replace them, by allowing more focus on legal judgement, strategic thinking and client care.
The tools reshaping legal work
According to the guide, LawTech covers a wide range of systems. These include document automation and e-signatures to speed up drafting and execution, practice management software to track matters and record time, and legal research platforms for fast access to case law and statutes. It also highlights client onboarding and AML verification tools, AI-assisted drafting and document review, online dispute resolution platforms, and analytics tools used for compliance and risk management.
Why it matters for solicitors
The guide says LawTech offers measurable benefits across legal practice. It highlights improved efficiency through automation, reduced risk of human error, and better client experience through faster turnaround and digital communication. It also points to compliance and security advantages, including stronger audit trails and more consistent processes for data protection and AML. The guide adds that LawTech can strengthen competitiveness by positioning firms as modern and client-focused.
Building a LawTech toolkit
The guide recommends starting with a review of operational weaknesses, such as manual document handling, onboarding delays or missed deadlines. It suggests selecting tools that are secure, compliant and easy to integrate into existing systems. It lists case management platforms including Clio, Actionstep, LEAP and Peppermint CX, document automation tools such as HotDocs, Avokaado and DocuSign, and legal research services including LexisNexis and Westlaw Edge UK. It also references Relativity, Luminance and Everlaw for e-discovery and AI analysis, and SmartSearch, PassFort and Napier for AML and KYC compliance.
Compliance remains a core requirement
The guide stresses that innovation must align with regulatory obligations. It highlights GDPR compliance, confidentiality, and the need for secure systems and encrypted communications. It also emphasises human oversight for client-facing or high-risk work, even where automation is used.
AI and remote practice
AI is presented as a practical support tool for drafting, extraction and review, but not as a substitute for legal advice. The guide also highlights the long-term shift to hybrid and remote practice, supported by cloud systems, secure video meetings, digital signatures and automated billing. It recommends cybersecurity measures, including multi-factor authentication, access controls and regular audits.
LawTech and the next generation
For aspiring solicitors, the guide says LawTech awareness is essential for SQE preparation and qualifying work experience. It links digital competence with professional expectations, including ethical awareness and responsible handling of client information.