Legal tech firms join forces to drive digital transformation

TWO INDEPENDENT alternative legal services providers have joined forces to deal with growing demand and increase efficiency within both businesses.

Leeds based legal technology firm SKYE launched a strategic partnership with LOD, based in London, in a move which combines their digital skills and legal talent.

Legal teams can now directly access guidance to accelerate new operating models, including through digital transformation, resource optimisation and managed services.

In addition, LOD has invested in SYKE to support the further growth and development of the business.

Launched in 2016, SYKE helps legal teams choose, buy and implement legal technology. It employs more than 90 lawyers and former lawyers, each one a specialist in legal tech engineering. It also has teams operating in Europe, APAC and the USA.

Alistair Maiden, SYKE’s founder and chief executive, said: “SYKE and LOD have a shared view of the market for alternative legal services, its potential and direction of travel.

“The legal industry is grappling simultaneously with how to move to a digital future and how to resource their teams in a smarter way.

“Both these issues overlap in multiple ways. Our new partnership means that we are uniquely placed to combine our skills in digital technology with legal talent. By doing so, we will offer clients holistic and cost-effective solutions, which will continue to challenge the traditional legal model.”

Founded in 2007, LOD is an original alternative legal services provider, with over 1,000 legal professionals based in the UK, Europe, Australia, Asia and the Middle East. In 2018 it announced its partnership with Bowmark Capital, giving the firm greater access to finance to fuel the next stage of its growth.

SYKE will remain a separate brand and corporate entity, under the leadership of Mr Maiden and chief operating officer, Lewis Bretts.

SYKE’s legal advisers were Gordons, with corporate finance advice coming from Murray Harcourt.