Looking at the ethics behind digital 'Lawtech'
In July, The law Society published a ‘Lawtech and ethics principles report’, looking into the benefits and problems associated with digital transformation of the legal field.
As the legal profession shifts to working from paper-based to digital systems, much consideration is needed as to the capability and lawfulness of any legal digital systems, or Lawtech.
The Law Society defines ‘Lawtech’ as ‘technology which supports or enables the provision of legal services and dispute resolution systems. It is roughly synonymous with legaltech or legal technology’.
Using Lawtech has been found to have benefits for clients, including:
-More agency, flexibility and customisation for clients -Meeting expectations of clients -Better outcomes for clients -Increasing ability to access justice
However, much effort is going into ensuring the legality, transparency, effectiveness and ethical underpinning of such a rapid shift to digital working. Many respondents to the survey, for instance, were keen on having clearly stated Lawtech and Ethics principles and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, to ensure professionalism and safety.
It is to be hoped that better access to family justice can be served through digital systems, for better outcomes for families and children.
You can read the full Law Society report at their website through this link.