Legal technology or Legal tech refers to the use of technology to improve the delivery of legal services and the practice of law. It encompasses a wide range of technologies and software that aim to streamline and enhance various aspects of the legal industry like legal research, case management, document drafting and management, contract review, e-discovery, and communication with clients.
It is using technology, software, and automation to provide legal services and support the legal industry.
Any technological tool that is specifically designed to enhance the delivery of legal services is legal tech.
Legal Tech’s Evolution Over Time
Legal tech first emerged in the 1970s, allowing lawyers to search case law online. By the 1990s, specialized software for tasks such as case management and billing gained popularity, marking a growth era. The 2000s saw an explosion of legal tech solutions as the industry continued to adopt technology, transforming the legal practice landscape significantly.
Legal Tech Origin in Nigeria
Legal technology began making waves in Nigeria in the late 1990s with the online publication of the first legal reports. This milestone introduced the legal sector to digital resources, which have continued to evolve, integrating technology into Nigerian legal services and paving the way for innovative platforms and tools.
Legal Tech v Law Tech
Though often used interchangeably, some experts distinguish between “Legal Tech” and “Law Tech.” Legal tech focuses specifically on aiding lawyers in their work, improving efficiency in tasks like document management and e-discovery. In contrast, law tech aims to make legal services more accessible to clients, sometimes allowing self-service without lawyer involvement. Legal tech is more closely associated with the U.S., while law tech has stronger roots in the U.K.
Legal Tech Providers in Nigeria
Nigeria has a growing legal tech market with providers like LegalPedia, LawPavilion, NextCounsel, Judy.legal, Digits law,etc which cater to various needs such as legal research, case law analysis, law practice management and contract life-cycle management. While some providers focus on one type of software, others offer a broad suite of tools that address multiple legal functions, supporting Nigerian law professionals in staying up-to-date and productive in a competitive industry.